Abstract

The Catcher in the Rye is the only novel written by American writer Salinger. It is widely recognized as the classic of American Initiation Stories which mainly presents the hero’s initiation process. The paper aims to explore the features of initiation stories embodied in this novel from the perspectives of the protagonist’s initiation process, initiation guides and narrative point of view. Firstly, in the aspect of content, the novel depicts Holden’s rebellious experiences and psychological changes in his growth process. Secondly, in the view of characters, a few initiation guides and companions appear who have influence on Holden’s growth. Thirdly, the novel adopts the first person point of view to trace Holden’s mental conflicts and spiritual journey. Besides, this study of characteristics exploration is not only beneficial to further analyze Holden’s initiation but also significant to teenagers who are confronted with confusions of growth. 

Keywords: Salinger; The Catcher in the Rye; Initiation Stories; characteristics

Contents

Abstract

摘要

1. Introduction-1

    1.1 A brief introduction of Salinger and The Catcher in the Rye-1

    1.2 Background and significance of the study-2

2. Literature Review-3

2.1 From the perspective of The Catcher in the Rye-3

    2.1.1 Study abroad-3

    2.1.2 Study at home-4

    2.2 From the perspective of Initiation Stories-5

2.1.2 Study abroad-5

2.2.1 Study at home-6

3. Theoretical Framework-7

3.1 The definitions of Initiation Stories-7

3.2 The characteristics of Initiation Stories-8

4. Feature Analysis of The Catcher in the Rye -9

    4.1 The initiation process of the protagonist-9

4.1.1 Motivation for going on wandering-9

4.1.2 Rebellion against the adult world-10

4.1.3 Epiphany of innocence-12

    4.2 Initiation guides and companions-13

4.2.1 Mr. Spencer-13

4.2.2 Mr. Antolini-14

4.2.3 Phoebe-14

4.3 Narrative point of view-15

5. Conclusion-17

References-18