Adolescence is often referred to as the crucible of change, primarily because of the enormous changes endured during a significant process of both physical and emotional maturation. From sexuality and first love to conflict with parental authority and peer pressure, adolescence is a time of change that places a great deal of psychological pressure on adolescents. In Elia KazanÆs film version of William IngeÆs Splendor in the Grass, the experiences of Deanie and Bud significantly illustrate these changes and pressures.
Both Deanie and Bud genuinely love each other. As a genuine and first love for each, their relationship is heightened by the raw emotions and passions of adolescence. One of the biggest obstacles in their relationship stems from parental authority. BudÆs upper-class wealthy father is opposed to his relationship with Deanie, because, as he tells Bud, ôàif anything was to happen, youÆd have to marry her!...You realize that, donÆt ya? You get a girl in trouble, boy, and you gotta take the consequencesö (Kazan). DeanieÆs mother is sexually repressed and Puritanical about sexual mores and manners. She continually lectures Deanie about keeping her virginity in tact. When Deanie innocently shares her feelings for Bud with her mother, she asks if there is anything wrong with having such feelings about a boy. Her mother replies, ôNo nice girl doesö (Kazan).
The genuine love and passion Deanie and Bud share creates enormous psychological and physical tension in their relationship. Bud is worried Deanie will get pregnant and Deanie is worried she will become pregnant if they have sex. Further, BudÆs father has threatened him with taking away his support if he doesnÆt do things ôright.ö DeanieÆs mother has long painted a horrific picture of the life Deanie can expect if she gives away her virginity. Adolescents go through a process of developing by differentiating themselves from others and then in...