Good Will Hunting Theme of Coming of Age

Will might know almost everything about chemistry and math, but he hasn't passed the third grade when it comes to living as an emotionally healthy adult.

In fact, Good Will Hunting is basically the story of Will learning to overcome his childhood fears and to develop as an emotional and vulnerable person so he can live a fulfilling life.

Questions about Coming of Age

  1. When does Will turn his first corner toward becoming an emotionally stable adult? Why?
  2. What's Maguire's biggest contribution to Will's wellbeing? Try to be as specific as possible.
  3. How do Maguire's stories about his own life help Will learn about his own situation?

Chew on This

Take a peek at these thesis statements. Agree or disagree?

In Good Will Hunting, we learn that being smart doesn't mean a person is mature.

Good Will Hunting reminds us that you can't waste your time trying to be happy if it keeps you from achieving greatness.