The Catcher in the Rye: Chapters 17-21

Lesson Plan - Get It!

Audio:

So far, you've followed Holden Caulfield's exploits over a day-and-a-half, one weekend late in December in the late 1940s.

(If you missed a chapter or want a refresher, catch the previous Related Lessons in the right-hand sidebar.)

• What has shocked you about Caulfield's adventures so far?

In your notes, write a paragraph or two about the events or situations that have surprised you and why they are unexpected. Also, note any emotional reactions you have had to these events.

In this lesson, you will read about the latter half of Caulfield's Sunday. In these chapters, Caulfield reveals that his older brother, D.B., fought in World War II.

You should recall that the author, J.D. Salinger, also fought in World War II. This event had profound effects on Salinger's writing style.

To learn more about how Salinger's war experiences affected his writing, read An American Classis At D-Day: How J.D. Salinger Took 'Catcher In The Rye' To War and watch the video below.

Answer the following questions in your notebook.

• What was Salinger's role in World War II?
• How was Salinger's occupation in the war different from the typical infantryman?
• How did Salinger's experiences in World War II affect his writing?
• How did Salinger's ancestry affect how he perceived the events of World War II?

Now, consider the chapters you have read so far.

• What influence do you see World War II had on this material?

Record your thoughts in your notebook.

Read Chapters 17 through 21 in the novel.

It would be best to obtain a print copy of the novel, which you can find in a local bookstore or library.

However, if you simply do not have access, you may use this online version of The Catcher in the Rye. It is important to note that this novel will be under copyright protection until 2080, so copies of the complete text are only permitted for educational purposes.

As you read, take notes on the people Caulfield encounters in these chapters and his emotional reaction to them. Also, take notes on Caulfield's information about D.B.'s experiences in World War II.

When you've finished reading and taking notes, move to the Got It? section to explore the plot and characterization of these chapters.