Holden Caulfield in The Catcher in the Rye and Jane Eyre in “Jane Eyre” both experience profound coming-of-age journeys, shaped by their respective societies and time periods.

Holden, a 1950s American teenager, grapples with alienation and depression in a post-World War II society marked by conformity and consumerism. His journey is characterized by a search for authenticity in a world he perceives as phony. Holden’s rebellion against societal expectations and his struggle with the loss of innocence reflect the anxieties of his era, where young people often felt disillusioned with the adult world.

Jane Eyre, on the other hand, grows up in the rigid social hierarchy of 19th-century England. Orphaned and mistreated, she seeks independence and self-respect in a society that restricts women’s roles. Jane’s journey is one of self-discovery and moral growth, as she navigates obstacles to achieve personal integrity and emotional fulfillment. Her challenges reflect the Victorian emphasis on social class, gender roles, and moral fortitude.

Despite these differences, both characters seek identity and belonging. Holden’s struggle with mental health and Jane’s fight for autonomy highlight their resilience against societal pressures. Their respective time periods shape their conflicts and resolutions, illustrating universal themes of growth and self-acceptance across different historical contexts.