Catcher in the Rye

The Catcher in The Rye: Background and Context

The 1950s was a decade of profound change. The development of the suburbs and the automobile transformed America. Unfortunately, the advancements of technology meant that nuclear war became a reality. People of this time lived in fear. This fear caused doubt and alienation and is a major component of the novel.

Once we dropped the bomb, there was no going back.

"Where have you gone, Joe Dimaggio? Our nation turns its lonely eyes to you." --Paul Simon

Listen to "Mrs. Robinson," a song that captures the loneliness and doubt of the era.

The novel is the tale of Holden Caulfield, an adolescent scared of making the transition into adulthood. The 1950s provide a powerful backdrop to this story of uncertainty, lonliness, cynicism, and--ultimately--understanding. Holden is you!

The Red Scare

The Korean War

The Cold War