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Holden Caulfield Minor Character Essay

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There are quite a few characters who influence Holden Caulfield, whether it be positively or negatively. Three minor characters have had a profound influence on Holden- Mr. Spencer, Sunny, and Mr. Antonelli. The actions of each of these individual characters has had an impact on Holden in some way, shape, or form. The following quote, stated by Holden Caulfield himself, show a complete turnaround in his personality and demeanor- ‘"The thing with kids is, if they want to grab for the gold ring, you have to let them do it, and not say anything. If they fall off, they fall off, but it's bad if you say anything."’ The quote describes Holden’s vain attempt to protect all of the innocence in the world. Mr. Spencer, Sunny, and Mr. Antonelli, although relatively minor characters in the grand scheme of the novel, did have a major impact on Holden’s view of the world and of himself. These three characters can best be described as foil characters, which is a minor character whose actions parallel the main character’s, therefore illuminating the main character. …show more content…

Spencer, his history teacher at Pencey Prep, and his favorite teacher in the whole school, even though Mr. Spencer gave him a failing grade in his class and sent him home with a note requesting that he stop by his house to speak with him before he leaves. Mr. Spencer unsuccessfully tried to change Holden’s disregard for academics. When it was time for Holden to say farewell to his hometown, Mr. Spencer gave Holden a speech at his own home about becoming someone. He explained to Holden that he needed to think about his future, not just go into the future blindfolded. Mr. Spencer shaped his character by informing him that he wasn’t alone in the world, and told him to think about his life in the future, as stated by the quote, ‘“I’d like to put some sense in that head of yours, boy. I’m trying to help you. I’m trying to help you if I

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