Final answer:
Rites of passage are a key theme in literature, as seen in Maya Angelou's 'I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings' and James Hurst's 'The Scarlet Ibis', where characters undergo significant personal transformations.
Step-by-step explanation:
Rites of passage are significant transitions in an individual's life, often marked by various rituals and ceremonies. In literature, these transformative experiences often serve as pivotal moments for characters. For instance, in I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou, the character Maya undergoes a profound transformation as she overcomes the trauma of her past, learns the power of words, and gains a sense of self-worth. This transition showcases her passage from an abused, silent child into a resilient, articulate young adult.
Another poignant example is found in The Scarlet Ibis by James Hurst, where the character Brother experiences a rite of passage through his relationship with his younger brother, Doodle. Initially, Brother is ashamed of Doodle's disabilities but eventually learns the value of acceptance and love. The tragic ending of this story marks Brother's painful transition from innocence to a mature understanding of life's complexities and the consequences of his actions.