The Catcher in the Rye

THE CATCHER IN THE RYE


1. Once you’ve finished reading the novel answer 5 of the following questions fully. ( /30)
1. In the light of what you have read, explain why the novel is called THE
CATCHER IN THE RYE and illustrate at least two different instances in which
Holden behaves like the character in the poem.
2. What is the main theme of the novel? Are there any secondary themes? Explain.
3. Where is Holden at the beginning and at the end of the novel? Why is he there?
What are some of the main difficulties that Holden faces as an adolescent?
What are the causes that led him to that state?
4. Holden changes throughout the novel. Explain how.
5. What is the significance of Holden’s red hunting hat?
6. While preparing to enter the adult world, Holden indulges in fantastic
daydreams. Mention at least 3 examples.
7. What is Holden’s attitude towards religion?
8. What are the functions of Allie, Phoebe, and Jane Gallagher in the story?
9. What does Holden’s concern for the ducks symbolize?
10. What do the carrousel and the gold ring represent? What about the museum?


2. Choose one of the following activities and write about it: ( /40)
a) In chapter 5 Holden writes a composition about Allie´s baseball mitt. Think about an object cherished by you and describe it showing the feelings it arises in you. Write not less than 150 words.
b) You are Holden, you feel terribly depressed and sad for the situation you are going through. Write a letter to Aunt Agony column in a well known magazine describing the causes of your present anguish and asking for advice.
c) If Allie were alive, what would he tell Holden every time his brother sees he cannot cope with relity and longs for his help? You are Allie, write what you would advise him to do. Write not less than 150 words.


3. Identify the following quotations and who they are addressed to. Explain the circumstances and in what way they are relevant for the text. ( /30)


"The mark of the immature man is that he wants to die nobly for a cause, while the mark of the mature man is that he wants to live humbly for one.”

"All the kids kept trying to grab for the gold ring, and so was old Phoebe, and I was sort of afraid she'd fall off the goddam horse, but I didn't say anything or do anything. The thing with kids is, if they want to grab for the gold ring, you have to let them do it, and not say anything. If they fall off, they fall off, but it's bad if you say anything to them"