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Holden Caulfield:
Holden the angsty, teenage narrator and protagonist of the novel. He uses sarcasm and a negative perception of others to navigate the adult world. He embarks on a journey through his hometown of New York City, while happening upon unique characters who mold his image of society. Holden's innocence and discontempt for the adult world is magnified by his underlying depression. Holden's journey through personal struggles and acceptance of the world around him creates a sense of longing and desperation throughout the text.
Phoebe Caulfield:
Phoebe is Holden's younger, precocious sister. She and Holden have a close relationship, and she often acts as his voice of reason. She offers Holden a loving, judgement-free perpective, while indulging in his need to indulge his childish side.
D.B. Caulfield:
D.B. is Holden's older brother. He lives in Hollywood and works as a writer. D.B. helps support Holden after his assumed mental breakdown. Their full relationship is unclear, but D.B is described as someone who cares deeply for his brother and tries to be a positive figure in Holden's life.
Allie Caulfield:
Allie is Holden's younger brother who passed away from leukemia. His death is central to the Holden's downward spiral. He is described by Holden as an intelligent, creative kid.
Jane Gallagher:
Jane is Holden's former girlfriend. Their relationship mounted to little more than an innocent childhood infactuation. Jane's difficult home life does not tarnish Holden's image of her. He views Jane in an angelic light and tries, unsuccessfully, to reconnect with her.
Mr. Spencer:
Mr. Spencer is an elderly teacher at Pencey Prep. Although Holden is viewed a trouble-maker at the school, Mr. Spencer attempts to reach out to him. He is one of the few people who believes in Holden's potential. He tries to make Holden see the error of his ways and focus on his schoolwork.
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