The Catcher in the Rye - Question 4

Holden Caulfield is by far the hero in The Catcher in the Rye. He may not save the day in any physical shape or form, but he demonstrates qualities in which I believe not an everyday “hero” possess. For one, he may be straightforward at times, but he knows when to behave. His biggest attribute is the fact he overcomes the struggle in which he faces throughout the novel. By the end of the book, Holden proves himself to be a heroic character because of his straightforward, yet intuitive personality and his ability to overcome the conflict he finds himself in.

I believe one of the lessons Salinger puts into The Catcher in the Rye is one that older generations can learn from. Older people tend to stereotype young teenagers like Holden Caulfield. They find them to be disrespectful, immature, and lazy. Holden demonstrates all of these traits well, but then he proves himself to be a very respectful young man, which may surprise some readers. When Holden finds himself on the same train as a mother of a fellow peer of his at Pencey, he lies to her about her son. Now one who has not read the novel may take this statement and automatically judge Holden. Yes, he lies to her, but for a very charming and thoughtful reason. Holden tells the mother that her son is actually a very good, sensitive kid, when in actuality he finds her son to be a jerk (Salinger 55). Holden proves his ability to hold back his usual straightforward and sarcastic personality to make someone feel good.

The biggest feat in the whole entire novel comes at the end of the book when Holden comprehends that his life is not fit to be perfect (or anyone’s for that matter). He devises up a huge plan to move to the country and live in a cabin to escape the authenticity of life (Salinger 205). Holden tries so hard to hold on (possible reference to his name?) to his childhood and not let it go. He represents the abstract idea of reality because of the experiences he has in New York, which help him realize where he is at in life. In the end he decides to stay where he is with his family. Holden’s adventures in New York City help him overcome his struggle between the transitions of childhood into adulthood.

Salinger, J. D. The Catcher in the Rye. Boston: Little, Brown and, 1991. Print.