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Similarities Between The Bell Jar And The Catcher In The Rye

Decent Essays

Too Taboo for School

Though these books pioneer to a different time, these novels should be banned due to the incorporation of topics that are too mature for students because morbidity, sexual violence, and harsh language are included in these books, depicting themes too dark for school aged children. Since The Bell Jar and The Catcher In The Rye have been published in the 50’s and 60’s, these books have been banned from schools, rightfully so. These books are unacceptable for young children to read. Actions banned for students in school are portrayed in these books, such as drinking, cursing, and self harm. Since these actions are rightfully banned in school, they should not be portrayed in books students read, creating exposure to new and unacceptable activities and actions. Not only are these actions shown, but the …show more content…

In The Bell Jar, sex is often depicted, indistinguishable from a healthy relationship. Plath notes Esther’s first experience with sex. The gorey description is too detailed for young children, inflicting important questions that teachers and parents may be incapable to solve. This portrayal of sex is too graphic for young children, possibly inflicting questions and discussions too delicate or interminable for school advisors. Sexual violence and depiction is also a strong theme in The Catcher in The Rye, observing the graphic brutality in both novels. Sexual violence in The Catcher in The Rye is almost appropriated, as high school children depict their sexual interactions. Holden notes his previous experience with Salinger, saying this appalling scene describes the atrocious exchange between Salinger and his date, illustrating possible molestation. This is an extremely descriptive and scarring depiction of rape, which leaves long lasting effects on many people. This topic is especially unacceptable for impressionable school aged children as it appropriates rape

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