Catcher in the Rye Chapters 1-2 Flashcards

Questions and Answers

Why is Holden not attending the football game?

He does not feel like a part of the school and he knows that he is leaving Pencey and wants to say goodbye to Mr. Spencer.

What happens to Holden in New York?

He spent so much time worrying about the fencing team getting off at the right stop that he leaves the team's equipment behind.

How does Holden know that Mr. Spencer has told his wife Holden is leaving Pencey?

She stresses the word 'you' when she asks Holden how he is.

How does Holden feel when he goes into Mr. Spencer's room?

The sight of Mr. Spencer, the smell, and the medicine make him sick. Signup and view all the answers

Why has Mr. Spencer invited him over?

He wants to talk to Holden about silly answers that Holden placed on the History test. Signup and view all the answers

When does Mr. Spencer say that Holden will start to care about the future?

He says that Holden will start to care when it is too late. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Holden say that his brother D.B. 'prostituted himself'?

He became a writer of movie scripts. Signup and view all the answers

What does Holden say he hates about Pencey?

The absence of girls. Signup and view all the answers

Why does the fencing team have to forfeit the meet?

Holden left the equipment on the subway. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Holden stand on the hill and watch the football game?

Because he wanted to feel some sort of goodbye. Signup and view all the answers

Who is Mr. Spencer?

His old History teacher. Signup and view all the answers

Who is D.B.?

Holden's prostitute big brother. Signup and view all the answers

What good memory does Holden have of Pencey Prep?

Playing football with his buddies until it got dark out. Signup and view all the answers

Who is Dr. Thurmer?

Dean/Headmaster at Pencey - a real phony. Signup and view all the answers

Why is Dr. Thurmer a phony?

He quickly dismissed odd-looking or not affluent parents and speaks at length with those who are good-looking or wealthy. Signup and view all the answers

According to Holden, when is 'life a game'?

Only if you are on the side where the hot-shots are. Signup and view all the answers

What subject didn't Holden fail?

English. Signup and view all the answers

Why did Holden write a note to Mr. Spencer on his exam?

Because he didn't want him to feel guilty about failing him, he likes Mr. Spencer. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Holdens' Feelings and Relationships

Holden does not attend the football game as he feels disconnected from Pencey and wants to bid farewell to Mr. Spencer.
Mr. Spencer's wife implies Holden's departure from Pencey by emphasizing the word "you" in her greeting.
Entering Mr. Spencer's room disgusts Holden due to the sight, smell, and presence of medicine.

Events in New York

Holden's concern over the fencing team leads him to forget their equipment on the subway, causing the team to forfeit the meet.
He stands on a hill to watch the football game as a way to feel a sense of farewell.

Mr. Spencer's Guidance

Mr. Spencer invites Holden to discuss his poor performance on a History test, revealing a concern for Holden's future.
He predicts that Holden will start to care about life decisions when it becomes too late.

Holden's Family Dynamics

Holden criticizes his brother D.B. for becoming a "prostitute" by writing movie scripts instead of pursuing genuine literature.
Holden reflects on his good memories at Pencey, specifically playing football with friends until sunset.

Perspectives on Pencey and Authority

Holden expresses his disdain for Pencey, noting the lack of girls as a significant drawback.
Dr. Thurmer, the headmaster at Pencey, is labeled as a "phony" because of his treatment towards parents based on their appearance and wealth.

Holden's Academic Performance

Despite failing in multiple subjects, Holden states he did not fail English, suggesting proficiency in this area.
He writes a note on his exam to Mr. Spencer to alleviate any guilt the teacher might feel about his failure.

Philosophical Views

Holden believes life is only a game for those in advantageous positions, specifically the "hot-shots."

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Description

Test your knowledge of Chapters 1 and 2 of 'The Catcher in the Rye'. This flashcard quiz covers key events and character motivations, particularly focusing on Holden Caulfield’s experiences and feelings. Perfect for students looking to reinforce their understanding of the text.