This overview is designed to aid you in your preparation for the exam over the novel. You will be able to use the overview when you take the exam.
PART 1 CHARACTERS Write a description for each of the following characters. The descriptions on the exam will be according to Holden’s narration.
Holden Caulfield
D.B. Caulfield
Allie Caulfield
Phoebe Caulfield
Mr. Spencer
Mr. Thurmer
Ward Stradlater
Robert Ackley
Jane Gallagher
Mrs. Morrow
Old Horwitz
Bernice Krebs
Faith Cavendish
Sunny
Maurice
sally Hayes
Ernie
Carl Luce
Estella Fletcher
Lillian Simmons
Mr. Antolini
Mr. Vinson
James Castle
Richard Kinsella
PART 2 EVENTS List, in order of appearance, the ten most important events from the beginning of the novel until the conclusion. Your response will vary depending on how you interpret the story.
PART 3 PASSAGES Select five events from PART 2 and locate a passage from the novel that describes the event. Copy the passage for each event that you selected on your paper.
PART 4 THEMATIC RESPONSE A theme is an essential lesson observed about a character and his/her problem. For each of the listed themes that follow indicate how Holden Caulfield struggles in the story:
Alienation
Misconception (Holden’s inability to see things as they are)
Phonies
Emotional Breakdown
Innocence
PART 5 SYMBOLISM Determine what you feel are the five most prominent symbols mentioned throughout the novel. Indicate how these symbols aide the reader in understanding Holden’s struggles.