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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. How does Holden know the maid will not hear him?

2. What does Holden say about Mrs. Antonlini’s cake?

3. How old does Holden say he is when he is asked in the men's room?

4. What beverage does Mrs. Antolini bring for Holden and her husband during their visit?

5. Who does Holden try to pick up as he leaves the Wicker Bar?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Holden react the way he does when he wakes up to Mr. Antolini patting his head?

2. What does Holden thinking he will disappear as he crosses the street symbolize, and why does he call out to Allie for help?

3. Why is Holden drawn to the boy singing as he walks down the street?

4. Why is Holden confused when Sally tells him to stop yelling?

5. Why does Carl suggest Holden see a psychoanalyst?

6. Why is Holden so upset when Phoebe tells him to shut up?

7. Why does Holden feel better when he is looking around D.B.'s room?

8. Why is Mr. Antolini worried about Holden?

9. Why does Holden second-guess his reaction to Mr. Antolini patting his head?

10. Why does Holden start to cry when he is saying goodbye to Phoebe?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Explain the final chapter of The Catcher in the Rye. Is this a satisfying ending? Why or why not? What, if any, unanswered questions does the author leave the reader with? Why?

Essay Topic 2

Define foreshadowing. Give at least two examples of foreshadowing in The Catcher in the Rye. Is the foreshadowing used in the novel effective? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 3

Identify and describe each of Holden's siblings. What role do his siblings play in the novel? What role does he play in their lives? What role does family play in Holden's life? How can you tell?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 690 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample