In J.D. Salinger's novel, The Catcher in the Rye

Authors Avatar

Archer 1

Lyndsey Archer

English 110-01

Mrs. Joanne Vickers

11-1-02

Holden Caulfield

        In J.D. Salinger's novel, The Catcher in the Rye, the main character, Holden Caulfield is a rebellious, judgmental, troubled and hypocritical individual.  He does not fit in with the "phonies" of society.  A few traumas have occurred in his life, such as his brother Allie's death, and a school friend committing suicide, which seem to be the root of his behavior. He acts as though the world is not good enough for him, and no one can avoid his inner criticisms.  Even though he is very quick to judge others, he never criticizes his own actions directly.  The characteristics mentioned are portrayed several times throughout the novel and from his actions we try to find out who Holden Caulfield really is.  .

        Holden Caulfield is a rebellious individual.  One of the major ways he shows this is by wearing his red hunting hat, which is also a major symbol in the novel. The red hunting hat shows individuality, personality and shows his desire to be different from everyone else. The hat reveals the main conflict in the book: Holden's need for seclusion opposed to his need for companionship.  The hat is peculiar and shows Holden's desire to be different than everyone else.  His refusal to apply himself and constant rebellion toward authority also show this.  He failed out of four schools because he did not want control over him.  He does what he wants throughout the

Archer 2

book, with no thought of anyone else.  Holden often tries to connect with other people throughout the book but never seems to be able too.  For example, he calls the prostitute Sunny to have sex, then upon her arrival, is not able to have sex with her and sends her away.  He sticks to himself and does what he wants on his own terms.  In chapter 2 of the novel, Holden goes to see his old history professor, Mr. Spencer.  While he is there, Spencer tells him, "Life is a game son. A game that one plays according to the rules".  When responding to this, Holden agrees out loud, but he thinks to himself,

Join now!

"Game, my ass. Some game. If you get on the side where all the hot-shots

are, then it's a game, all right—I'll admit that. But if you get on the other

side, where there aren't any hotshots, then what's a game about it? Nothing.

No game"(12).

By thinking this, he is clearly mocking Mr. Spencer and showing no respect for adults.  He shows rebellion in ways that no one notices. Usually he mocks people in his head, while being respectful when he is face-to-face.  
        Holden Caulfield is always judging people.  Throughout the book, Holden refers to people as ...

This is a preview of the whole essay