Author Type

Graduate Student

Date of Award

1987

Document Type

Thesis

Publication Status

Version of Record

Submission Date

October 2026

Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]

Coyle, William

Abstract

A central theme in the novels of Robert Cormier is the confrontation between the individual and society. Because the protagonists are teenagers, this encounter represents a form of initiation or rite of passage into the adult world. Numerous symbolic images relate the initiation experiences of Cormier's characters to the initiation rituals and practices of primitive tribes. Because the images reveal perversions of modern initiation ordeals and corruption of the mentors who guide them, aberrant values are transmitted. The abundance of symbolic imagery elevates Cormier's work to a significant voice in contemporary mythology. Instead of mystical monsters, Cormier's novices must face the institutional evils found in religion, education, government, the military, international terrorism, and experimental medicine. Most of the youthful heroes fail to complete the passage satisfactorily; some are annihilated by it. Cormier warns that the implacable establishment can corrupt and destroy both individuals and itself.

Extent

83 p.

Comments

Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters|Thesis (M.A.)--Florida Atlantic University, 1987.|FAU Electronic Theses and Dissertations Collection|Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters

Identifier

FA00000978

Format

pdf

Download

Share

COinS