The Great Gatsby

Definition

The Great Gatsby is a novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald that explores themes of wealth, love, and the American Dream in the 1920s. The story is narrated by Nick Carraway, who provides a unique perspective on the lives of the wealthy elite, particularly his neighbor Jay Gatsby, whose obsession with the past and desire for rekindled love drives the narrative. The point of view significantly shapes the reader's understanding of events and characters, while the chronological structure reveals the unfolding tragedy of Gatsby's aspirations and the social dynamics of the Jazz Age.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Nick Carraway serves as both a participant and observer in the story, which allows readers to see Gatsby through a lens of admiration and skepticism.
2. Fitzgerald employs a non-linear chronological structure, frequently using flashbacks to reveal key backstory elements that inform Gatsby's character.
3. The green light at the end of Daisy's dock symbolizes Gatsby's unattainable dreams and desire for a future with her.
4. The novel critiques the idea of the American Dream, showcasing how wealth can corrupt and lead to moral decay among the elite.
5. Gatsby's tragic end reflects the futility of his quest for love and acceptance in a society marked by class division and superficial values.

Review Questions

• How does Nick Carraway's point of view influence our understanding of Jay Gatsby and the events that unfold in The Great Gatsby?
  • Nick Carraway's perspective as both a friend and observer is crucial in shaping how readers perceive Jay Gatsby. Nick admires Gatsby's hope and determination but is also aware of his flaws and the disillusionment surrounding his life. This duality allows readers to explore Gatsby's complexities while questioning the authenticity of the glamorous world he inhabits, leading to a more nuanced understanding of both Gatsby and the societal values of the time.
• Discuss how Fitzgerald’s use of non-linear chronological structure enhances the themes present in The Great Gatsby.
  • Fitzgerald's non-linear chronological structure creates suspense and emphasizes key themes by revealing critical backstory elements at strategic moments. Flashbacks provide insights into Gatsby’s past relationship with Daisy and his rise to wealth, deepening readers' emotional engagement with his character. This structure reinforces themes of lost time and unfulfilled dreams, as Gatsby’s attempts to recapture his past become increasingly tragic as the narrative unfolds.
• Evaluate how The Great Gatsby reflects and critiques the American Dream through its characters and events, particularly in relation to social class.
  • The Great Gatsby serves as a powerful critique of the American Dream by illustrating how its pursuit can lead to disillusionment and moral decline. Characters like Gatsby embody this ideal, striving for wealth and social status in hopes of achieving happiness. However, Fitzgerald reveals that true fulfillment remains elusive as Gatsby’s tragic fate highlights the emptiness behind material success. The novel ultimately suggests that social class barriers prevent genuine connections, exposing the hollowness within America’s idealized vision of prosperity.

Related terms

Narrator: The person who tells the story, providing insight into the characters and events from their perspective.

Symbolism: The use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities, adding deeper meaning to the narrative.

American Dream: A cultural ideal that suggests prosperity and success can be achieved through hard work and determination.