Common elementsThe Catcher in the Rye is one of the most challenged books.It is third on the list of banned books.One of the major reason is sexual content and offensive language used.
The book is describing turmoil of a teenager and the way how he is dealing with the sexuality.The sexual content in the book is not worse than what teenagers can see on TV shows,especially reality shows and music videos.Regarding language it is not the kind of language that teenagers didn't hear before.The question is should it be taught in schools and sand message that offencive language is appropriate.If you think about The Catcher in the rye as a piece of art ,swearing words are justified.
Think about many famous statues from ancient Greece and Roman Empire,Michelangelo and many more that portrayed nudity.Does it mean we should destroy them or keep them in the dark basements so no one can admire them.Church had a campaign called "fig leaf" in which are private parts in art covered with fig leaves,later removed and in some cases statues were damaged.
Another reason for banning The Catcher in the Rye is mentioning of suicide in the book,drinking,smoking and Holden's social behaviour.It is better in my opinion to expose young people to the truth then shield them from the reality they live in and prepare them how to deal with outside world.
Of Mice and Man according to information provided by the American Library Association(ALA)
has been banned for promoting euthanasia,racial slurs,profanity,portraying disabled people in a negative light.The thing is if you ban a book you deny reality of the world.The book reflected 1930's when they didn't have much education,disabled people and animals were not treated properly,racism was part of everyday life and showing all that and comparing where we are in today's society is positive for me.
Death of a Salesman has been banned for criticizing American society and what capitalism brings , destroying family life and other values.During 40's and 50's in USA there was a campaign of criticizing and accusing many American citizens,especially the ones working for government, of disloyalty,subversion,or treason without proper evidence.The primary targets of such suspicions were government employees, those in entertainment industry,educators and union activists.There was a big fear of communist influence on American institutions and espionage by Soviet agents.Many people were questioned by government committees and agencies and they suffered loss of employment,destruction of their careers and even imprisonment.
The other reason for banning Death of a Salesman is suicide.
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