The Great Gatsby Flashcards
(18 cards)
Gatsby’s American Dream
Gatsby was born in the lower class and believes if he makes enough money, he’ll be equal to Tom and Daisy
Why do we question if the American Dream is an attainable goal?
Gatsby was never accepted by the old money
Corruption of the American Dream
Gatsby’s parties represent the ultimate corruption of this dream from an unrestrained desire for money and pleasure
Symbolism of old and new wealth
East Egg & West Egg symbolize the division between old and new money
How does the Great Gatsby warp the American Dream?
It’s supposed to be about discovery, individualism, and pursuing happiness
-> Gatsby resorts to crime to impress Daisy. His dream is ruined by his unworthy idealization of her
-> Daisy’s lifestyle is characterized by materialism
Hollow Upper Class (West Egg)
The new rich are vulgar, gaudy, lack social graces, taste, and the ability to detect subtle social cues. However, they can be sincere and loyal
Hollow Upper Class (East Egg)
Old aristocracy - contain grace, taste, elegance, but are careless and inconsiderate
Importance of class (Gatsby)
He only pursues Daisy after acquiring enough wealth
Importance of class (Myrtle)
She resents George because she originally believed he was wealthy
Importance of class (Tom and Daisy)
Only the most elite couple make it to the end of the book. They believe their wealth makes them immune to consequences.
Green light
Symbolize Gatsby’s hopes and dreams - and the greater American Dream
Valley of Ashes
Moral and social decay, where industrial ashes are left, struggle of the poor
Overall style
Wry, sophisticated, elegiac, uses metaphors and poetic language to invoke a sense of nostalgia (Nick is creating a written account of the past using nostalgia and fondness)
In what style is Gatsby written compared to other characters?
He’s graceful, stylish, and elegant. Other characters are written in a tone of ridicule
Juxtaposition and style
Nick’s elegant and educated speech contrasts the drunken slurs at Gatsby’s party
Opening tone
Melancholic as Nick begins his reflection
How does the tone change throughout the book?
Nick becomes more sympathetic and intimate with Gatsby
How does Nick describe the social scene?
Wry and satirical manner - he is impressed and disturbed
