The Development of the Protagonist in Rudolfo Anaya’s Chicano Bildungsroman Bless Me, Ultima

Abstract

he main aim of this article is to examine the psychological and emotional development of the protagonist of Rudolfo Anaya’s Bless Me, Ultima, a book which is perceived as a prime example of Chicano Bildungsroman. First, I concentrate on providing brief theory about the sub-genre of Bildungsroman and on Chicano literature to situate Anaya’s novel within these contexts. A considerable part of the article is devoted to the analysis of the protagonist’s family background and school environment, which signify the influences of Mexican and American culture in his life. Finally, the motifs of war, violence and death are discussed as significant factors contributing to the protagonist’s coming of age.