What point about Holden's character is illustrated by the suitcases of the nun and his former roommate?

• A. He values possessions over relationships.
• B. He believes others will always respect his property.
• C. He shows sympathy and feels for others who have less.
• D. He is careless with his belongings.

Answer: (C)

Holden’s moment with the nun and the reference to his former roommate’s suitcases highlight his capacity for empathy toward people who have less. When he notices the nun’s plain clothes and heavy but simple luggage, he isn’t scornful or dismissive; he’s moved by her quiet dignity and chooses to respond with generosity, offering help and money rather than judgment. That same sensitivity shows up in thinking about his former roommate—seeing someone else’s burdens and possessions prompts him to feel for them rather than envy or overlook them. Together, these details reveal a caring, humane side of Holden that cares about others’ struggles as much as his own feelings.