Cynicism in the novel Catcher in the Rye. This essay is a research paper on what trates of a teenage cynic Holden displays, and how that relates to his actions.

In the novel Catcher in the Rye, by J.D. Salinger, Holden Caulfield displays characteristics of the cynic's mentality. Holden hates everything about the world, he finds it "phony" (Salinger). That mentality in itself may very well be a defense mechanism that Holden displays when he is uncomfortable or put into a certain position, perhaps when he is nervous. Cynicism is a view on life that people develop through life experiences. Where, when, and how …showed first 75 words of 819 total…

…showed last 75 words of 819 total…Webster's Dictionary. 2002. Bayan, Rick. "What Is Cynicism?" I-Cynic. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. 15 April 2005 <http://www.i-cynic.com/whatis.asp>. "Cynicism". Sophia On-Line Philosophy Courses: The Problem of Happiness.15 April 2005 <http://www.molloy.edu/academic/philosophy/sophia/ancient_lit/happiness/cynicism.htm>. Lomazoff, Eric. "The Praises and Criticisms of J.D. Salinger's Catcher in the Rye. Bohemian INK.1996. 19 April 2005 <http://www.levity.com/corduroy/salinger1.htm>.