The Catcher in the Rye 12/02/10

J(erome). D(avid). Salinger Born: January 1st, 1919 in NYC Died: January 27, 2010 at 91 years old Grew up in NYC – Briefly went to NYU and Columbia University before serving in WWII 1940-1965 – Wrote 35 short stories Published Catcher in 1951 to instant success Hated public life – retire to new Hampshire, and refused all interviews Continued to write, but stopped publishing Drawn to youth – had several relationships with younger women Considered one of the most influential writers in American literature

Overview Written in 1951, The Catcher in the Rye is the narrative of the experiences of Holden Caulfield, a 16-year old, who heads into New York City after he is expelled from Pencey Preparatory School. It spans his three days on his own in the city, describing his ideas on sex, drinking, social hypocrisy, rebellion, and the process of coming of age.

Why Holden? ✔Considered an icon for teenage rebellion world wide (his name has become synonymous with any youth who questions the authenticity of the adult world). ✔Among the “100 best novels” written since 1925; over 250,000 copies sold each year ✔ One of the most banned books in the United States, for its use of profanity (over 238 “goddamn’s”, 58 “bastards”, and 6 “f****”) and for its portrayal of teenage sexuality and angst.

In 1960 a teacher was fired for assigning the novel in class; he was later reinstated. Between 1961 and 1982 - was the most censored book in high schools and libraries 1981 - both most censored book and second most taught book in public schools   2005 - top ten most challenged books of 2005 2009 - although off the list for three years, reappeared as a most challenged book

  1980 - Mark David Chapman's shooting of John Lennon Chapman was arrested with his worn copy of the book, and inside, he had scribbled a note: "Dear Holden Caulfield, From Holden Caulfield, This is my statement." After shooting Lennon, Chapman calmly sat down and began reading the book. Later, he read a passage from the novel to address the court during his sentencing. 1981- John Hinckley, Jr.'s assassination attempt on Ronald Reagan A copy of the book along was found on Hinckley after he was arrested. 1989 - Robert John Bardo's shooting of Rebecca Schaeffer Bardo also had a copy on him when he shot the actress he had been stalking for three years.

Time Period 1950s America Time of extreme conformity Group norms (e.g. gender roles, class behaviours, sexuality) were closely followed; individualism was frowned upon and seen as threatening. Typical Image: Nuclear family with Father, Mother and two children living in a middle class suburban home.

First Person Point of View Narration First Person Point of View Novel’s meaning and plot come from Holden’s thoughts and observations As readers, we play “psychoanalyst”; we need to analyze them for their significance to Holden and to the novel as a whole. Holden’s use of slang and profanity create a sense of realism and highlight his desire to rebel against social norms. Key Question: IS HOLDEN A RELIABLE NARRATOR?  

Key Theme Topics Innocence vs. Experience Coming of Age/Self-Discovery Hypocrisy and Phoniness (A vs. R) Alienation and Isolation Love and Sex Rebellion