Abstract:The Catcher in the Rye is called one of the modern classics of American literature in the 20th century, which describes Holden’s experiences and feelings in a few days when he escapes from school. By using techniques of paradox and symbolism, the novel shows Holden’s ambivalence between the escapism from the phony world and the pursuit of a pure child’s world, when facing the postwar American society where people get lost in a luxurious life. 

Key Words: Holden ambivalence The Catcher in the Rye

Contents

Abstract

摘要

Introduction-4

Chapter One the Negative Way to be against Hypocritical Society -5

1.1 Acting as a Member of Hypocritical Society-5

1.2 Trying to Escape from Hypocritical Society-7

Chapter Two the Positive Way to Deal with the Outside World-9

2.1 Caring about His Family-9

2.2 being Kind to People-11

Chapter Three the Reason why He Chooses the Two Opposite Ways to Deal with Society-13

3.1 His Immaturity-13

3.2 The Social Environment after WWⅡ-14

Conclusion-15

Bibliography-17

Acknowledgments-19