The Catcher in the Rye

1. The Catcher in the Rye Literary Terms

2. First Term: Motif A motif is a recurring thematic element. This may manifest itself in an array of symbols, character conversations, and moments of significance. What are some motifs from Catcher? Loss of Innocence Sexuality Phoniness Death and Dying Faith and Meaning Falling Frozen (unchanging)

3. Second Term: Symbol A symbol is usually a tangible element in the narrative that represents an abstract idea, this is always in correlation with the theme of the work. What are some symbols from Catcher? Ducks in Central Park Holden’s Hat The Carrousel The snow(ball) Sunny’s Green Dress Allie’s Mitt Museum of Natural History Stradlater’s Razor

4. Third Term: Archetype Carl Jung, a Swiss psychologist from the early 20th century, pioneered a scientifically valid argument for universal human characters. His basis: the collective unconsciousness. Ancient Recurring Cross-Cultural What are some archetypal characters in Catcher? Sacrificial-Redeemer (Christ-figure) & Paradoxical Truth-teller

5. Fourth Term: Anti-Hero An anti-hero is a character that has some clear personality flaws, but ultimately also have has enough heroic qualities / intentions to gain the sympathy of readers. Anti-heroes can be awkward, obnoxious, passive, pitiful, or obtuse—but they are always, in some fundamental way, flawed or failed heroes. In this use, the term tragic hero is sometimes used. Reworded from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anti-hero