What Is the Best Thing About the Museum of Natural History in Catcher in the Rye?

The Museum of Natural History in Catcher in the Rye is a significant location that plays a crucial role in Holden’s character development. In this article, we will discuss the best thing about the Museum of Natural History and why it holds great importance for Holden.

The Best Thing: The Static Exhibits

Undoubtedly, the most remarkable aspect of the Museum of Natural History is its static exhibits. These exhibits are what Holden loves about the museum and what makes it stand out from other museums. The static exhibits represent something that never changes, which is very comforting for Holden.

Holden particularly likes the fact that even though he grows up, these exhibits will remain unchanged and will always be there to offer him comfort whenever he needs it. The idea of having something permanent and reliable to hold onto is very important to him.

Holden’s Love for Allie

Holden’s love for his younger brother Allie also has a significant impact on his admiration for the museum’s static exhibits. Allie had passed away from leukemia, and Holden associates his memories with Allie with certain things in his life, such as museums.

The static exhibits at the Museum of Natural History remind him of Allie because they are consistent and unchanging, just like his love for his brother. This connection serves as a way for Holden to feel closer to Allie even though he is no longer alive.

The Significance of Time

Another reason why Holden loves the static exhibits at the Museum of Natural History is that they represent time. Time is a crucial theme throughout Catcher in the Rye. For Holden, time moves too quickly, and he wants everything to stay exactly as it is.

The museum’s static exhibits show how time passes but doesn’t change everything. They provide a sense of stability and comfort that Holden desperately craves in a world that seems chaotic and ever-changing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Museum of Natural History in Catcher in the Rye is an essential location that plays a crucial role in Holden’s character development. The best thing about the museum is its static exhibits, which provide comfort and stability for Holden.

The exhibits represent something that never changes, and for Holden, this is very important. They remind him of his love for his brother Allie and offer him a way to feel closer to him. They also represent time, showing how it moves but doesn’t change everything.

The Museum of Natural History holds great importance for Holden, and it serves as a symbol of the things he values most in life – stability, consistency, and love.