Catcher in the rye: i have to answer this question! help?

Question

Several times Holden discusses the Bible, religion, and Catholicism in an extended analysis, with seemingly sharp, ironic commentary. What is he really criticizing?

Answer 1

He is criticizing the world around him that he has grown to dislike, believing that it is full of "phonies" and people who just don't care.

Answer 2

He's criticizing more the institutionalization of religion than the concepts themselves. Holden is constantly breaking away from those who try to control him, and the uncertain hope of religion and strict order it is derived from go against what he believes.

Answer 3

He isn't criticizing the religion so much as he is poking fun of the institution.

Answer 4

Holden believes the the establishment is phony and superficial, so he is criticizing what he sees as the faults of the world around him.

These links may help you put together your answer to this question.

http://www.bellmore-merrick.k12.ny.us/ca...

http://www.sparknotes.com/lit/catcher/

http://www.gradesaver.com/classicnotes/t...

http://www.cummingsstudyguides.net/Guide...

http://www.allgreatquotes.com/catcher_in...

http://classiclit.about.com/od/catcherin...