Life educates our understanding while situations help discover the identity. The development of identity is a dynamic process – the interface of internal and external forces. From the day we are born, we are distinguished by the precious gifts we inherit and our innate uniqueness from everybody else in this world. Through life, our values are shaped by our personal experiences and circumstances. We absorb advice from sharing a personal and emotional interaction according to the challenges we encounter. We mature to find out who we are by what we choose to be through personal experiences and the influence of others. This is illustrated in Shakespeare's Henry IV, through the progress of Hal's maturity from "truant" to true "heir apparent". Anthony Hill's short story Growing Up retells the transition from the naivety of innocence to the black and white reality of racial discrimination. Finally, Emily Rodda's novel Rowan of Rin, tells the story of a under confident child who is chosen to save his town Rin.
             One's place in society from "prodigal son" to princely protector, can define their sense of identity. Shakespeare's Henry IV shows the progress of Hal's identity through his respective dealings with, his father the King, Falstaff and Hotspur. Both politically and personally, King Henry has paid a high price for his crown. Therefore it would be understanding that he would of much liked it if his son, Prince Hal were to become a noble heir partly because this might make his own kingship more secure. The last thing he would of expected was for his own son-heir to the throne to reject living a Royal life with him, as a Prince and become more rebellious and sociable with the lower classes of society. The King is already troubled in conscience, and is filled with guilt over problems arising as a King. At the same time he disapproves of Hal's behavior, as he progr...