What does the term “bildungsroman” refer to?

The term "bildungsroman" specifically refers to a genre of literature that focuses on the psychological and moral growth of the protagonist from youth to adulthood. It typically highlights the protagonist's journey of self-discovery and personal development, often involving themes of identity, responsibility, and maturation as they navigate various life experiences and challenges. Classic examples of the bildungsroman include works such as Johann Wolfgang von Goethe's "Wilhelm Meister's Apprenticeship" and J.D. Salinger's "The Catcher in the Rye." This literary form captures the complexities of growing up and the transition into adulthood, making “coming-of-age story” the most fitting description of a bildungsroman. The other options describe different literary styles or narratives that do not align with this specific theme of personal growth and development.