Chapter 1
What is the identity of the narrator, at what point in time is he telling the story, and where is he when he is telling the story?
Holden Caulfield is the narrator, he is telling the story from a point sometime after the events of the story, and he is likely at a psychiatric treatment facility.
What is Holden's attitude toward adults?
Holden feels alienated and cynical toward the adults in his life, whom he sees as superficial and insincere.
How is it possible that despite Holden’s statement in the first line of Chapter 3, “I’m the most terrific liar you ever saw in your life,” the reader believes nearly everything he says?
Holden claims to be a "terrific liar," but the reader believes him because his narration feels genuine and confessional, even when his judgments are flawed.
Why does Holden call Stradlater a "secret slob"?
He is outwardly "handsome" but his razor is gross and he makes a concentrated effort to look good.
What characteristic of Holden's narration is highlighted in this chapter? Meaning - think about the order of ideas presented - what does this show about Holden?
Holden's narration is characterized by its digressive nature, as he jumps between different thoughts and memories.
What is the setting at the beginning of the novel once Holden begins telling his story?
The story begins in late fall/early winter at Pencey Prep.
What is the significant Ch. 2 example of Holden being critical of an adult who seems to care for him?
Holden criticizes Mr. Spencer for his age, his appearance, his behavior, and even his smell.
How does Holden's view on Mr. Ossenburger reflect how, at times, his understanding is false but his basic idea being correct?
Mr. Ossenburger is wealthy but brags about coming from a humble background, which Holden sees as hypocritical and "phony." He also finds his occupation and supposed relationship with God to be phony.
What game does Holden fondly remember playing with Jane Gallagher? What does he distinctly remember about her childhood? Why might this make him more drawn to her?
Checkers...she always kept her kings in the back row. She had a "lousy childhood" like he says he had.
What major theme is introduced through the revelation of Allie's death?
Holden's reaction to Allie's death reveals the novel's theme of loss of innocence and the difficulty of coping with grief and trauma.11162223
What kind of tone is established in the first paragraph, and how is it done?
Must reference a quote in your answer.
The first paragraph establishes a cynical tone through the use of slang and informal diction, and Holden's dismissal of the events of the story as "madman stuff."
What literary device does Holden frequently use to describe people? Must ref. a quote about Mr. Spencer.
a. Satire - the use of humor, irony, exaggeration, or ridicule to expose and criticize people's stupidity or vices
b. Irony
c. Metaphor
Satire - Holden's description of Mr. Spencer as a "phony slob" who "kept saying how life was a game" is an example of this literary device.
What kind of person is Ackley, and how does Holden feel about him? Why might Holden hang out with Ackley despite being annoyed by him?
Must ref. a quote.
Ackley is described as having poor hygiene, being intrusive, being socially awkward, and talking about his "supposed" sexual exploits.
Either feels bad for him OR looks upon himself favorably in comparison (opposite of Stradlater).
What is Holden wearing throughout his exchange with Stradlater? He at one point shifts it around...why?
Red Hunting Hat..."I'm quite a nervous guy"
What does Jane Gallagher represent for Holden?
Jane Gallagher represents a time of innocence and genuine connection for Holden, which he longs for but fears has been lost.
Why is Holden hanging around the cannon, freezing, in Chapter 1? What does this suggest about him?
Holden is hanging around the cannon to watch a football game, even though he is freezing. This suggests that he is somewhat rebellious and enjoys being separate from the rest of the student body.
What is symbolic in Stradlater borrowing Holden's houndstooth jacket? What does Stradlater essentially taking the jacket communicate about Stradlater? How does Holden feel about societies' acceptance of guys like Stradlater?
Symbolizes Stradlater's egotistical elitism. Holden knows society accepts this behavior. Holden overlooks his overconfidence though because he knows Stradlater can be kind.
What recurring theme is established through Holden's judgments of others? For clarity - what does his considering someone "phony" reveal he's concerned with?
Holden's dislike of people who he considers "phony" reveals his concern with authenticity and his rejection of superficiality.
What is the symbolic significance of the composition Holden writes for Stradlater? Think about the subject matter and what Holden is attempting to preserve.
The composition Holden writes about Allie's baseball glove could symbolize Holden's attempt to preserve his brother's memory and innocence.
What is the symbolic significance of Holden's red hunting hat?
Holden's red hunting hat, which he purchases impulsively, could symbolize his desire for individuality, his alienation from his peers, or his need for protection.
What does Holden dislike about the Pencey Prep advertisement and the headmaster, Mr. Thurmer?
Must ref. a quote re: either the ad or Thurmer.
Holden dislikes the Pencey Prep advertisement because he finds it contrived and believes that Mr. Thurmer is a "phony slob" who only shakes hands with attractive parents.
What reason does Holden give for leaving Elkton Hills? Why is this a significant detail to notice about Holden?
Must ref. a quote.
He says it is because of all the phonies, but it is really an excuse to quit as he was going to be kicked out anyway due to his grades. It's also reflective of his isolation and loneliness.
Holden has a complex array of feelings towards Stradlater? What are at least two of Stradlater's qualities Holden discusses and what does it share about Holden?
What does Holden's excessive repetition (of phrases, words, etc.) contribute to the book?
Holden's repetition of phrases like "I really was" and "that killed me" contributes to the novel's conversational tone and reinforces his emotional state.
Describe Allie and Allie's Baseball Mitt. What are the key features Holden recalls?
Mitt: lefty, green poetry
Allie: intelligent, nicest member of family, red hair