Teddy

Fiction | Short Story | Adult | Published in 1953

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Summary

Background

Story Analysis

Character Analysis

Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Literary Devices

Important Quotes

Essay Topics

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Discussion Questions

Essay Topics

The objective third-person perspective in “Teddy” allows for ambiguity regarding Teddy and his fate. How would this short story change if narrated from Teddy’s first-person perspective?

How do you interpret the ambiguous ending, and why? Use textual evidence to support your answer.

Much of the story is Teddy and Nicholson’s philosophical discussion. Why do you think Salinger employs dialogue instead of action to create tension?