There is no way that The Violent Bear It Away can be classified as a Bildungsroman. Tarwater experiences no growth or maturity. In fact, I would argue that he deteriorates throughout the story. Though he has a chance to start a new life after Old Tarwater passes, he chooses to become a murderer. I am not blaming Tarwater for this because it is obviously Old Tarwater's fault, but nevertheless, he does commit a very violent murder. This novel seems to be the opposite of a Bildungsroman; the main character falls deeper and deeper into insanity as the story progresses. It is frustrating because I personally expereienced hope that Rayber would be able to rehabilitate Tarwater and become his father figure. As we find out, however, Rayber is also insane and is in no position to be a proper role model for a young man. I also experienced hope when Tarwater stopped to tie Bishop's shoes on the stair steps at the hotel. He showed a bit of humanity at this point, and it seemed as if O'Connor was tricking me into believing there may still be hope for Tarwater. This scene makes the murder scene all the more shocking and disturbing. This novel is NOT a Bildungsroman. By the end of the novel, Tarwater is completely insane. He will never be a functioning member of society.