Holden Caulfield and the Pressures of Society The...

Confucius, a Chinese philosopher, once stated, â€Å"You cannot open a book without learning something.† Throughout time, books, molded by their authors, have been the key source of knowledge. Regardless of the subject, most works of literature often have a message or theme for the reader. Not only do authors use themes, but also well developed characters to bring a novel to life. In the bildungsroman, The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger, characterization is often found, especially regarding the protagonist, Holden Caulfield. Salinger also includes many themes in his novel relating to growing up in a corrupt society. Hence, this paper will compare, contrast, and evaluate literary criticisms regarding the themes and characterization†¦show more content†¦In conclusion, these critics agree that Holden is a kind and considerate character. This novel supports the beliefs of Reiff, Bloom, and Pinsker that Holden Caulfield, although it may not seem, is overall a go od person. Throughout this novel, the reader indirectly discovers more about Holden. Between his vague thoughts and discussions with other characters, it becomes apparent who Holden truly is. For example, on the train to New York, Holden has an encounter with the mother of Ernest Morrow, a student from Holden’s school, Pencey Prep. Mrs. Morrow praises her son and calls him sensitive while Holden thinks that, â€Å"Morrow was about as sensitive as a goddam toilet seat† (Salinger 55). Although Holden disagrees, he exaggerates and tells Mrs. Morrow how great her son is. Holden tries to make Mrs. Morrow delighted and proud by speaking highly of her son, although it may not be true. He can not bring himself to tell her the truth and shatter her perception of her son. The reason behind these lies is to keep Mrs. Morrow from becoming hurt or disappointed, supporting Pinsker’s belief. Even with a stranger that Holden barely knew, he is attentive and does anythi ng to keep he or she happy. Additionally, when Holden and his friend, Mal, are going out for the night, Holden invites Ackley to come along with them. Although Mal is reluctant, Holden eventually convinces him to let Ackley accompany them. Holden finds Ackley annoying andShow MoreRelatedHow Salinger’s Holden Caulfield Relates to Teenagers Throughout Time1412 Words   |  6 PagesHow Salinger’s Holden Caulfield Relates to Teenagers Throughout Time In 1951, J.D. Salinger’s The Catcher in the Rye was #1 on the New York Time’s bestseller list. Since then, the American Literary Association claims The Catcher in the Rye is a â€Å"favorite of censors.† The use of harsh language and profanity has been a long time debate of educators causing the novel to be pulled off bookshelves and propelling J.D. Salinger and his protagonist, Holden Caulfield, into reluctant fame. TheRead More 1950s Culture Exposed in The Catcher in the Rye Essay1361 Words   |  6 Pages1950s Culture Exposed in The Catcher in the Rye    J.D. 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