The Great Gatsby Themes

Question 1

Social Inequality

Answer 1

The contrast between the “white palaces” of East Egg to the poverty stricken and dilapidated “Valley of Ashes.”

“Old money vs New Money” - Gatsby’s is looked down upon by Tom and the rest of the upper class as his status is achieved rather than ascribed.

Question 2

Capitalism

Answer 2

Myrtle and Wilson represent the poverty stricken and inferior proletariat compared to the Buchanan’s who represent to socially superior bourgeoisie.

Question 3

The facade of the American Dream

Answer 3

Daisy is considered to be Gatsby’s American Dream, however the “green light” shining in the “distance” is a metaphor used by Fitzgerald to expose the fact that for many, the American Dream is unattainable and the fact that Gatsby is killed in the pursuit of Daisy highlights its destructiveness/toxicity.