Language and the Struggle for Identity in the Goldfinch: A Study of Youth and Crisis

Abstract

Youth is a transformative period marked by the dismantling of childhood beliefs and the formation of an autonomous self. During this time, individuals seek independence while striving to integrate into society and establish a unique identity. This study examines The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt as a modern Bildungsroman to explore the protagonist’s journey of identity formation, focusing on the conflicts and psychological trauma that arise when this process is disrupted. Using an interactional model based on the developmental psychoanalytic theories of Erik Erikson and James Marcia, this research investigates how unresolved crises during adolescence can lead to distorted identities. Developmental psychology posits that adolescence is crucial for identity development, during which individuals experiment with different social roles and vocations. Through a linguistic analysis, this study reveals how failure to achieve ego identity during this critical phase contributes to negative identity outcomes, such as engagement in criminal behavior and social isolation. The findings highlight the profound impact of disrupted identity formation on the protagonist's psychological development and social interactions.