Plot Elements of The Catcher in the Rye

Question 0

8-10 characters

Answer 0

Holden Caulfield, Ackley, Stradlater, Jane Gallagher, Pheobe Caulfield, Allie Caulfield, D.B. Caulfield, Mr. Spencer, Mr. Antolini, Maurice, Sunny

Question 1

Setting

Answer 1

Begins at Pencey Prep in Pennsylvania, then goes to New York City; early 1950s

Question 2

Conflict

Answer 2

Holden wishes not to become a part of the “phony” adult world, mainly through the process of not growing up and maturing, unlike what is going on with the world around him.

Question 3

Climax

Answer 3

When phoebe wants to go and run away with holden

Question 4

Resolution

Answer 4

Holden decides not to run away and he is going to go to a new school

Question 5

Author’s Life as It Influences the Work

Answer 5

J.D. Salinger lived his life very similarly to that of Holden’s, since he got sent to many prep schools and colleges. Both Salinger and Holden are restless people that cannot hold commitments well.

Question 6

Five themes

Answer 6

Alienation as a form of self-protection, the painfulness of growing up, the phoniness of the adult world, relationships and intimacy, deception