The Catcher in the Rye as an Anti-existential Novel

Elaf Thamir Saadoun; Dr.Hafudh Humaish

doi:10.31185/eduj.Vol59.Iss1.4008

Authors

Elaf Thamir Saadoun University of Wasit / College of Education for Human Sciences
Dr.Hafudh Humaish University of Wasit / College of Education for Human Sciences

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31185/eduj.Vol59.Iss1.4008

Keywords:

Existentialism, Holden, Sartre, Atheism, Being-for-others

Abstract

This study delves into the anti-existentialism elements in Jerome David Salinger's The Catcher in the Rye (1951). While Salinger's novel shares similarities with existentialist notions, it also presents a distinct and often conflicting perspective on the human condition. Existentialists highlight individuals' capacity to exercise genuine choices in an indifferent world. Contrarily, Foucault directed his attention toward the concept of power, the impact of institutions on individuals, and knowledge acquisition. Sartre's theories served as the inspiration for existentialism. Sartre's existentialism espoused the concept of human free will while rejecting the presence of God. Sartre admired human freedom to such an extent that he proclaimed it total and limitless, asserting that nothing can impede man's freedom except for man himself. Following Sartre's contributions to existentialism in Being and Nothingness and his mistakes is the best way to learn about anti-existentialism. This paper will analyze the objections presented by numerous researchers about Sartre's idea of freedom. These objections correspond to specific modern novels. By examining specific incidents in the novels, the study presents counterarguments to existentialism. This study contributes to solve questions such as: Do the characters follow Sartarean existential principles? As Sartre claims, do the characters have free will to create meaning in a meaningless world? Do they possess the rebellious spirit that existentialists describe?

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