F. Scott Fitzgerald

Definition

F. Scott Fitzgerald was an American novelist and short story writer, best known for his portrayal of the Jazz Age and the American Dream during the 1920s. His works, particularly 'The Great Gatsby,' reflect the disillusionment and moral decay of post-World War I society, which are central themes in Lost Generation fiction. His life as an expatriate in Europe also captures the essence of the Lost Generation expatriate experience, as he sought to navigate a world marked by cultural upheaval and personal struggles.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Fitzgerald wrote four novels, with 'The Great Gatsby' being his most famous, published in 1925 and often considered a classic of American literature.
2. He was deeply influenced by his experiences living in Europe during the 1920s, particularly in Paris, where he mingled with other expatriate writers and artists.
3. Fitzgerald's struggles with alcoholism and financial instability mirrored the disillusionment experienced by many members of the Lost Generation.
4. His literary career peaked in the 1920s but declined in the 1930s as he faced personal and professional challenges, leading to a lesser-known later work called 'Tender is the Night.'
5. Fitzgerald's writing style is noted for its lyrical prose and vivid characterizations, making significant contributions to modernist literature.

Review Questions

• How does F. Scott Fitzgerald's portrayal of characters in 'The Great Gatsby' reflect the broader themes of Lost Generation fiction?
  • F. Scott Fitzgerald's characters in 'The Great Gatsby' embody the themes of disillusionment and moral ambiguity prevalent in Lost Generation fiction. Through figures like Jay Gatsby and Daisy Buchanan, Fitzgerald critiques the emptiness of wealth and the unattainable nature of the American Dream. The characters' personal struggles mirror the collective disillusionment faced by a generation seeking meaning in a rapidly changing society after World War I.
• Discuss how Fitzgerald's expatriate experience in Europe influenced his writing and perspective on American society.
  • Fitzgerald's time in Europe, particularly in Paris, exposed him to a vibrant artistic community that shaped his views on American culture. The contrasts between American materialism and European sophistication influenced his critique of the American Dream, as seen in his works. This experience allowed him to reflect on issues of identity, belonging, and disillusionment through the lens of an expatriate, giving depth to his understanding of social dynamics back home.
• Evaluate how F. Scott Fitzgerald's literary legacy has shaped contemporary understanding of the Lost Generation and its significance in American literature.
  • F. Scott Fitzgerald's literary legacy is foundational to contemporary understanding of the Lost Generation and its significance in American literature. His exploration of themes like disillusionment, identity, and moral decay not only defined an era but also resonated with future generations grappling with similar issues. The enduring relevance of his work encourages ongoing discussions about societal values, the nature of success, and individual aspiration within a cultural framework that often feels at odds with these ideals.

Related terms

The Great Gatsby: A novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald that critiques the American Dream through the tragic story of Jay Gatsby, illustrating themes of wealth, love, and social stratification.

Jazz Age: A term used to describe the cultural period of the 1920s in America, characterized by jazz music, flappers, and a break from traditional norms.

Gertrude Stein: An American avant-garde writer and art collector who played a significant role in the Paris expatriate community, influencing many writers of the Lost Generation.