RE: The Catcher in the Rye Chapter 25 Questions

  1. How does Holden help the two kids at the museum? What is symbolic about the meeting? What is ironic?
  2. Explain two examples of Holden’s accepting reality in this chapter.
  3. What does Phoebe wanting to go away with Holden do for him? How does Phoebe force Holden to accept responsibility?
  4. What is symbolic and ironic about Phoebe’s role in the school play?
  5. What is the significance of Phoebe’s riding the carousel and reaching for the gold ring?
  6. How is Holden’s hunting hat symbolic in this chapter?
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6 Answers

How does Holden help the two kids at the museum? What is symbolic about the meeting? What is ironic?

While waiting for Phoebe at the Museum of Art, Holden  tries to help some kids find the room with the mummies, but the kids get scared and run off. He then notices another “Fuck You” written on the wall of the hallway. He predicts that even his tombstone will have “Fuck You” written on it. He feels ill, and in the bathroom he faints. It’s ironic that Holden scares the children he’s trying to help, and a sign that something is really wrong with him. At the same time, he’s clearly not able to understand the seriousness of his mental distress. He comments on his fainting as if it’s nothing.

Answered on 02.06.2017.
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