Characters
Who is Phoebe Caulfield?
Holden's younger sister, whom he loves and admires.
What is the loss of innocence?
The difficulty of moving from childhood to adulthood.
"People never notice anything." Who says this quote?
Holden Caulfield.
What is the red hunting hat?
The hat Holden wears when he feels different or wants comfort.
Where does the novel take place?
The novel takes place mainly in New York.
Who is Stradlater?
Holden's roommate at Pencey, known for his good looks but poor hygiene.
What is phoniness?
Holden constantly criticizes people for being fake.
"Don't ever tell anybody anything. If you do, you start missing everybody." Who says this?
Holden Cuafield.
What is the Museum of Natural History?
This museum represents things that never change.
What is Pencey Prep?
Holden has recently been expelled from this boarding school.
Who was Allie Caulfield?
Holden's dead younger brother, remembered for his, innocence, intelligence and kindness.
What is grief?
Holden struggles with this emotional consequence after Allie's death.
"The mark of the immature man is that he wants to die nobly for a cause..." Who says this?
Mr. Antolini.
What are the ducks in Central Park?
These birds make Holden wonder where they go during winter.
What major event begins the novel?
Holden leaves Pencey Prep several days before the official end of the term after being expelled.
Who is Mr. Antolini?
Holden's former English teacher who later gives him important advice.
What is isolation?
Holden often feels disconnected from others, showing this major theme.
"I'm the most terrific liar you ever saw in your life." Who says this?
Holden Caufield.
What is the rye field?
Holden imagines protecting children from falling off this place.
What is the Edmont Hotel?
Holden spends the night in this hotel after leaving Pencey Prep.
Who was James Castle?
This classmate commits suicide after being bullied and rejected.
What is preserving innocence?
Holden's desire to protect children reflects this central idea.
"I keep picturing all these little kids playing some game in this big field of rye..."
Holden Cuafield.
What is accepting growth and change?
The carousel at the end symbolizes this stage of life.
What is Holden's search for identity and belonging?
Throughout the novel, Holden repeatedly avoids returning home because he fears facing the consequences of this event.