The American Dream Flashcards
(13 cards)
What is the significance of the American Dream in The Great Gatsby?
The American Dream is a significant theme that drives many of the characters’ actions and motivations.
What does Nick Carraway observe about Gatsby in Chapter 1?
Nick sees Gatsby stretching out his arms toward the dark water, seemingly trembling.
What does the green light symbolize in The Great Gatsby?
The green light symbolizes Gatsby’s desire for Daisy and the broader pursuit of the American Dream.
What does Gatsby hope to achieve through his wealth?
Gatsby’s motivation for success and wealth is to win Daisy and live the ideal life he envisioned with her.
What happens to Gatsby’s pursuit of the American Dream?
Daisy ultimately rejects Gatsby, leading to his failure to achieve his American Dream.
What does Nick think after crossing the bridge in Chapter 4?
‘Anything can happen now that we’ve slid over this bridge; anything at all…’
What does the bridge symbolize in Gatsby’s journey?
The bridge symbolizes a transition and signifies a change in relationships and perspectives.
What categories of people does Nick reflect on in Chapter 4?
Nick reflects on the pursued, the pursuing, the busy, and the tired.
Who is an example of the ‘pursued’ in The Great Gatsby?
Daisy is an example of the ‘pursued’ as she is longed for by Gatsby.
Gatsby actively seeks her affection.
Who embodies the ‘pursuing’ category in the novel?
Gatsby embodies the ‘pursuing’ category as he actively chases his dreams.
What does the ‘busy’ category refer to?
The ‘busy’ includes those occupied without a clear goal, like Nick Carraway.
Who might fall into the ‘tired’ category?
The ‘tired’ refers to those who are weary and disillusioned, such as individuals in the Valley of Ashes.
What does Fitzgerald suggest about the interplay of these categories?
Fitzgerald reflects on the multifaceted nature of characters and society, suggesting life involves a constant interplay between these categories.