Catcher In The Rye

1. Catcher In The Rye Chapters 1 -3

2. 1st Impressions of Holden Caulfield • Loner • Speaks directly to reader • Use of slang – suggests uneducated • Swearing • Doesn’t see point of school –has been to four schools • Hates ‘phonies’ • Is quite full of himself • Honest to reader, less honest face to face with other characters

3. Characterisation – Holden Caulfield • Chose a quote to support the each of the 1st impressions Holden has made on you • What do you think of his friendship with Ackler and Stradlater? • Find evidence to support your points

4. Characterisation - Mr Spencer • Throughout the novel Holden meets and has conversations with many different characters. Each one reveals something about Holden • What do you think Mr Spencer’s character reveals about Holden? • What do you think it allows us to see from another perspective?

5. In what ‘person’ is the novel written? What structure does Salinger use to tell the story? Language and Style of novel

6. Language and Style of novel • Find examples of use of slang and swearing • Think about when the novel was written and publish • What difference does this make to the possible reaction to the language used?

7. Language and Style of novel • Identify what is noticeable about Salinger’s style of writing? • Use of long rambling sentences that often trail off.. • Contrasting with the use of short sentences • Use of frequent asides • Little description

8. Language and Style of novel • What effect do these techniques have on the reader? • Makes reader feel as if involved in a conversation with Holden • Makes reader feel involved and connected to what is being said • Makes reader care about what happens to Holden