Introduction
Number the Stars, written by Lois Lowry, is a coming-of-age tale that delves into the ethical, psychological, and intellectual growth of its main character, Annemarie Johansen. Within the narrative, Annemarie acquires an enhanced comprehension of the world and significant life lessons. This composition will explore three components of Number the Stars that classify it as a bildungsroman. The novel explores the transformative journey of the protagonist, Annemarie, who encounters the harsh reality of war and conflicts with societal expectations and learns the significance of sacrifice and bravery.
Components of Bildungsroman in Number the Stars
The first aspect encompasses the protagonist’s encounter that propels her on a transformative journey. At the novel’s start, Annemarie and her friend Ellen engage in a spirited race through the streets of Copenhagen when they unexpectedly encounter German soldiers. This occurrence catalyzes Annemarie’s journey as she begins to grasp the dangers and intricacies of her surroundings. The encounter with the soldiers compels her to question the social hierarchy and the injustices that plague her country. This is perceptible in the following quote: “Why are you running?” inquired the soldier. Annemarie responded courteously, “I was racing with my friend. We have races at school every Friday, and I want to perform well, so I—” Her voice trailed off, leaving the sentence unfinished” (Lowry). This event compels Annemarie to confront the brutal realities of war and opens her eyes to the necessity for bravery and resilience.
The second element involves the rigid social order in which Annemarie finds herself confined. The German occupation of Denmark has established an inflexible social structure governed by rules and regulations that everyone is expected to adhere to. Annemarie and her family are compelled to shelter Ellen, who happens to be Jewish, and navigate the perils of living under Nazi control. This leads to conflicts between Annemarie’s personal desires and the strictures imposed by the social order. Annemarie must learn to balance her loyalty to her loved ones and her obligation to safeguard them. This is exemplified in the following quote: “I believe the Rosens will be safe,” Peter remarked. “But you must keep a watchful eye on your friend Ellen. And steer clear of the soldiers” (Lowry). Annemarie must navigate the challenges of existing in a society that contradicts her personal convictions and principles.
Annemarie’s attempt to assimilate completely into society makes up the third component. She develops and gains a deep comprehension of the human condition throughout the book. She understands the value of bravery, sacrifice, and standing up for what is right. As the book ends, Annemarie considers her place in society and herself. She has assimilated important lessons and grown realistically humble and empathetic toward others. The following quotation clarifies this: “People are only called upon to show such courage, to lay down their lives for one another, in fairy tales. In Denmark, this is not the case in real life” (Lowry). Annemarie understands that bravery and selflessness are not just found in fairy tales but are virtues that she and others may exhibit.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Number the Stars by Lois Lowry is a bildungsroman novel that charts the moral, psychological, and intellectual evolution of its protagonist, Annemarie Johansen. The novel incorporates the elements of a bildungsroman through the protagonist’s transformative experience, the confining social order in which she is ensnared, and her eventual growth and assimilation into society. Through these elements, Annemarie acquires valuable life lessons and fully comprehends her surroundings.
Work Cited
Lowry, Lois. Number the Stars. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company, 1989.