Class, Wealth and Social Stratification

Question 1

What quote defines the difference between East Egg and West Egg?

Answer 1

“I lived at West Egg, the- well, the less fashionable of the two.”

Question 2

How does Tom Buchanan embody inherited privilege?

Answer 2

“He seemed to fill those glistening boots until he strained the top lacing.”

Question 3

What quote reflects Gatsby’s outsider status among the elite?

Answer 3

“This is a permanent move?” said Daisy over the telephone.

Question 4

What does Daisy say that reveals her ingrained class values?

Answer 4

“Rich girls don’t marry poor boys.”

Question 5

What image contrasts Gatsby’s wealth with his lack of social legitimacy?

Answer 5

“His gorgeous pink rag of a suit.”

Question 6

How does Nick describe Tom and Daisy’s immunity from consequence?

Answer 6

“They were careless people, Tom and Daisy.”

Question 7

What line shows Myrtle’s desire for class mobility?

Answer 7

“You can’t live forever, you can’t live forever.”

Question 8

What does Gatsby say about his reinvention and rejection of poverty?

Answer 8

“I was bound to get ahead. I always had some resolves like this.”