Coming of Age During War and as a Writer

War can tear people apart, make children grow up prematurely, and make us do what we wouldn't normally but it cannot be denied that no matter what it does leave a mark on everyone effected.

Although women did not usually fight on the front lines, they were asked to take on the daunting task of keeping things running on the home-front. "Make do and mend" became a mantra among women during the war.

Like Briony and Cecelia, Florence Nightingale defied social norms in order to serve as a nurse during war.

Writers try to make a world that is beautiful and free from complication; however, war has a way of destroying so much of what we once loved. Authors must find a way to make beauty out of what is left.

Coming of Age as A Believer

"It needs a very strong faith to stand alone" (Waugh ch. 5), especially as an Catholic in aristocratic society.

In Brideshead Revisited, Charles struggles with agnosticism and Catholicism much like the royals did with Protestantism and Catholicism.

Although time continues to move forward, the shadows of the past remain.

When we can no longer believe in the lives we've built... the only thing left to believe in is God.

Something about water both cleanses and rejuvenates our spirits.

Coming of Age as a Traveler

Initially, every traveler sees the panoramic but cursory view of the place they are visiting.

As Mr. Emerson said, the greatest view is one of the heavens.

Different cultures make travelers take a closer look at our own.

 

 

In Lucy's case, travel led to a new way of living; one that is full of passion and beauty.

Different perspectives of the world help us reassess our views and allows us to grow; just as it did for Lucy.

Coming of Age as a Worker

Cherubs looking over foundlings

 

Books that Jane may have found comfort in during her time at Lowood.

Many governesses, no doubt, felt a sense of entrapment knowing that they have no real territory other than the room where they slept.

The painting "Awakening Conscience" shows a dilemma that Jane could easily identify with during her courtship with Rochester.

Despite her life's trials, or perhaps because of them, Jane was able to develop a sense of self that allowed her to marry who she truly loved.