Catcher In The Rye Seminar Preparation Essay

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The Catcher in The Rye: Seminar Preparation
5. The purpose of each of the young characters introduced in the novel was to reveal Holden's constant obsession with innocence and his judgment of the adult world. When Holden mentions his late brother, Allie, who “got leukemia and died” (49), the reader comprehends Holden's admiration for him. Holden relates to the reader stating “you would’ve like him” (49), also that he was “terrifically intelligent” (49) and “the nicest” (50”). Holden repeatedly mentions how such a great kid Allie was before he lost all his innocence. Then once Holden arrives at the park the reader was introduced to a little girl on skates. Once more Holden includes how “polite” (155) the girl was “like most kids” (155). These interactions uncover Holden's thoughts about young kids and how his …show more content…

All Holden's comments about children are positive yet when he mentions adults his character is cynical and negative. For example, near the end of the novel Holden sleeps at Mr. Antolini's for the night and wakes up to Mr. Antolini “petting”(249) and “patting” (249) his head. Holden reacts very harshly to this and leaves Mr. Antolini's immediately and mentions “that kind of stuff's happened to me about twenty since I was a kid”(251). This suggested Holden has had negative experiences facing adults and often relates to them as phonies.

6. Symbolism is utilized frequently in the novel, The Catcher in the Rye, and portrays important themes throughout the reading. Many symbols were used, such as Holden's red hunting hat, the ducks and the museum. Holden’s red hat was represented as a source of comfort and solace

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