1. Initial Disillusionment: At the beginning of the novel, Holden exhibits a deep sense of disillusionment with the adult world. He is critical of society's hypocrisy, superficiality, and phoniness. Holden's cynicism and frustration stem from his experiences in school, his family life, and his interactions with various adults.
2. Search for Authenticity: As the story unfolds, Holden embarks on a journey of self-discovery and a quest for authentic connections with others. He meets a diverse range of characters, including his former teacher Mr. Antolini, the prostitute Sunny, and his younger sister Phoebe. These encounters challenge Holden's assumptions and force him to confront his inner conflicts and insecurities.
3. Emotional Vulnerability: Throughout the novel, Holden's emotional vulnerability becomes more evident. He struggles with feelings of loneliness, alienation, and grief, particularly after the death of his brother Allie. Holden's encounters with various characters bring out his empathetic side and allow him to form genuine connections, revealing a deeper emotional complexity beneath his cynical facade.
4. Loss of Innocence: Holden experiences a loss of innocence as he becomes increasingly aware of the harsh realities of life and the flaws in the adult world. His interactions with adults expose him to their imperfections, moral ambiguities, and self-serving behaviors, leading to a disillusionment that shatters his idealized notions of adulthood.
5. Maturation and Self-Awareness: As Holden's journey progresses, he gains a deeper understanding of himself and his place in the world. He begins to recognize his own flaws and shortcomings, and his interactions with others help him develop a more nuanced perspective on life. By the end of the novel, Holden shows signs of emotional growth and a willingness to confront his challenges rather than逃避.
Overall, Holden Caulfield's character evolves from a disillusioned and cynical teenager to a more mature and self-aware individual who is ready to face the complexities of life and establish genuine connections with others.