M.C. Higgins, the Great Coming-of-Age

In M.C. Higgins, the Great, our main man M.C. is kind of already all grown up, even though he's only thirteen. So how much more growing up does he need to do? As it turns out, quite a lot (thanks for asking). M.C. may have a lot of adult responsibilities and worries (he takes care of his younger siblings and hunts to feed the family), but that doesn't mean he couldn't stand for some other types of lessons, especially when it comes to girls and friendships.

Questions About Coming-of-Age

1. How does Lurhetta Outlaw help M.C. grow up?
2. How does M.C.'s father influence his coming-of-age?
3. Does M.C. really come-of-age? If so, how?
4. Are there any other characters who also seem to come-of-age in the book?

Chew on This

M.C. doesn't actually grow up in the book; in fact, he doesn't change all that much by the end.

M.C. goes through a massive change in his character because his values fundamentally change.