Profiles of Influential Writers and Classic Characters

Influential Thinkers and Writers

Ralph Waldo Emerson

Ralph Waldo Emerson (Boston, May 25, 1803 – Concord, April 27, 1882) was an American essayist, philosopher, and poet. He was the leader of the transcendentalist movement in the early 19th century. His teachings also contributed to the development of the New Thought movement in the mid-nineteenth century.

New Thought is a philosophy that proclaims the need for a direct experience with the Creator, without intermediaries. The central message of New Thought is that an individual's thoughts shape their experiences and worldview. For this reason, New Thought places a great emphasis on:

• Positive mental attitude
• Meditation
• Affirmation exercises

Jonathan Swift

Jonathan Swift (Dublin, Ireland, November 30, 1667 – October 19, 1745) was an Irish writer known primarily for his satirical work. He was a novelist, essayist, poet, and priest who studied at Trinity College Dublin and Hertford College.

Swift is arguably the most important prose satirist in the English language and is less known for his poetry. He originally published all of his works under pseudonyms or anonymously.

Walter Winchell

Walter Winchell (April 7, 1897 – February 20, 1972) was an American journalist, considered the inventor of the modern gossip column. He was also a television presenter, radio host, and actor.

Characters from 'The Catcher in the Rye'

Holden Caulfield

The 16-year-old protagonist and main character of the novel.

Spencer

Holden’s elderly history teacher at Pencey Prep, who tries to give him advice before he is expelled.

Ward Stradlater

Holden’s roommate at Pencey Prep. He asks Holden to write an essay for his English class.

Allie

Holden's younger brother who died of leukemia. Holden treasures his baseball glove, which has poems written all over it.

Sally Hayes

A former girlfriend of Holden's. Their date ends in an argument, leaving her upset.

Carl Luce

A former schoolmate of Holden's. He leaves their meeting early because of Holden’s immature comments.

Phoebe

Holden’s 10-year-old sister, whom he adores. She wants to run away with him.

Mr. Antolini

Holden's former English teacher. He makes an unsettling advance toward Holden, causing him to leave abruptly.