1. The Concept of the Anti-hero

2. Definition
A central figure in a work that repels us by his or her actions or morality, yet who is not a villain. The Anti-hero accomplishes a useful purpose or even does heroic deeds.

3. More Anti-hero Attributes:
Lacks heroic qualities, such as:
courage, physical prowess, and fortitude
They distrust traditional values
Unable to commit to any ideals
Feel helpless and that the world is out of control
Accept, even celebrate their positions as social outcasts

4. Anti-Hero’s Also Often Have:
a lack of courage, honesty, or grace,
And deal with:
weaknesses and confusion
They may also be pathetic

5. Catcher in the Rye contains
An “Anti-hero” protagonist who has redeeming qualities,
conflict with authority figures,
muses about the “meaning of life,”
attempts to play act adult roles,
thinks about death,
and deals with the loss of innocence

6. Famous Anti-Heroes
Huckleberry Finn from The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn
Holden Caulfield from Catcher in the Rye