Coming of Age

One of the primary themes running throughout the novel is growing up and coming of age. In some way, each of the characters learns lessons about growing up and dealing with responsibilities in life that are both larger than themselves, and larger than the confines of school. In the case of the novel, coming of age of a sexual nature is prominent. Primarily, the catalyst for coming of age comes by way of Miss Jean Brodie, who influences the girls during their developmental years from age ten until well into their adult lives. Even Miss Jean Brodie comes of age in the novel, when she keeps talking about being in and out of her prime. The girls explore what sex is and live somewhat vicariously through the stories Miss Brodie tells of her loves and the stories the girls make up in their own minds and...