Thursday, 3/17/16

Agenda

Major Themes
Today we will go over some of the major themes in The Catcher in the Rye to help you with your projects and studying for the test next week.  Whatever we don’t finish today we will go over tomorrow.

Socratic Seminar Questions
Answer the following questions in preparation for tomorrow’s Socratic seminar.

1. Examine Holden and Phoebe’s relationship.  Use specific events from the book that support your answer.  What might she symbolize to Holden?  2 quotes needed.
2. Discuss James Castle and the effect he had on Holden.  2 quotes.
3. Examine and discuss Holden’s experience with Mr. Antolini.  How do Mr. Antolini’s words echo the advice that Holden received from Mr. Spencer?  What does the quote “mean” that Mr. Antolini wrote down for Holden?  What effect does it have on Holden?
4. Throughout the novel, we do not see the healthy presence of adults in Holden’s life.  Instead we see pimps, “strange” teachers, prostitutes, irritated cab drivers, and absent parents.  What message does the novel seem to send about adults and the adult world?
5. Discuss and examine the ending scene with Phoebe on the carousel with Holden watching, almost crying, and happy.  Why does Holden want to be a “catcher” in the rye (and not one who “MEETS”) and is Holden a “catcher” for Phoebe?  Explain.
6. Is Holden’s isolation and alienation from society still part of today’s world?  Explain and provide real life examples.
7. Do you like Holden?  Do you like the novel?  Explain.

Due tomorrow, 3/18/16.

Homework
Finish answering the Socratic seminar questions due tomorrow, 3/18/16.