... historical time period and its social values in society in which Holden lives is analyzed. Therefore the historical context of "the catcher in the rye" has a significant relevance in understanding the novel. America in the 1950's was a country of great military power, a society of high conservatism driven by consumerism. America represented materialism and its people believed that America was the greatest country in the world. Holden despises the arrogant and ... superior mentality adopted by people he interacts with and as a result of this continual inner rebellion Holden is greatly os...

• Word Count: 1661
• Approx Pages: 7
• Grade Level: Undergraduate

... 's main character of Pygmalion, Eliza Dolittle, struggles to become a phony. The possible reason for this is that they both come from opposite backgrounds. Holden is a young, affluent teenager in 1950's America who resents materialism and Eliza Dolittle is a young, indigent woman who is living in Britain during the late 1800's trying to meet her material needs and wants. These two seemingly opposite characters do ... in fact have something in common: they, like every other person, are in a constant pursuit of happiness. This commonality is the basis for the themes these two stories prese...

• Word Count: 2191
• Approx Pages: 9
• Grade Level: High School