The Catcher in the Rye is, according to critic Robert Bennet, "one of the most widely read and discussed works in the American literary canon," and consequently, Holden Caulfield is one of literature's most beloved--and despised--characters. People either love him or hate him; there is rarely a middle ground with this character.
So, scholars of mine, here are the talking points: What is it about Holden that elicits such strong feelings in readers? What, specifically, did Salinger in his characterization process do to create such an engaging and powerful figure? Why is there such a cult fervor surrounding Holden?
So, by Saturday at 11 AM, post a comment that handles some or all of these talking points, and make sure to include a response to at least one classmate if you are not the first to comment! The blog is on Edline, but to save you extraneous mouse clicks, here it is:
AP English Blog Rubric (15 Points)
Name: _______________________________________________________
_____ Comment responds to prompt in an accurate and appropriate way
_____ First to comment!
_____ If not the first to comment, comment addresses at least one other student’s idea in a respectful way
_____ Comment is at least a paragraph in length
_____ Comment substantiates position by referencing topics that give weight to opinion
_____ Comment is free from grammatical errors
_____ Comment responds to prompt in an accurate and appropriate way
_____ First to comment!
_____ If not the first to comment, comment addresses at least one other student’s idea in a respectful way
_____ Comment is at least a paragraph in length
_____ Comment substantiates position by referencing topics that give weight to opinion
_____ Comment is free from grammatical errors
Rock on, faithful literature enthusiasts!
