Why Is Catcher In The Rye Banned

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The Catcher in the Rye by J. D. Salinger use in public schools has been banned and challenged many times. There are many concerns surrounding the teaching of this novel. Holden, a high school student, is the main character. The story follows Holden as he struggles to deal with his brother’s death. The novel should be taught in public schools; however, it shouldn’t be taught to everyone.The book has many moral lessons that are appropriate for students in high school. One major reason Catcher has been banned is due to Holden’s use of profanity; yet, profanity is very common in today’s society. In 1945 when the novel was written profanity was not as acceptable as it is today. One example of profanity used in the books was “Fuck you”. However, that word is included because Holden disagreed with the use of the word. Holden says, “It drove me damn near crazy. I thought …show more content…

Almost every time Holden enters a nightclub, he drinks. Throughout the story there are many scenes showing why Holden’s use of alcohol and tobacco is very harmful and wrong. Once after visiting the Wicker Bar, Holden leaves in a drunken stupor and holds his stomach as if he were bleeding, Holden then takes a cab stating “I would have walked […], but I felt funny when I got outside. Sort of dizzy. (). We’re not too surprised at this point that Holden isn’t feeling well a lot of alcohol, not too much food or sleep isn’t a good thing. Holden only being 17, and not being able to be served alcohol is also a huge moral lesson. The bartender tells Holden "I'm very sorry, sir…" but he did not hold it against him. Holden says “They could lose their jobs if they get caught selling to a minor. I'm a goddam minor” this shows us that he understands and has learned from this. Holden’s unsafe and sickening use of alcohol and tobacco can teach students the many consequences and actions of the use of alcohol and

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