The Outsiders
What does the term "Greaser" suggest about the importance of labels in the novel?
Labels shape how the characters see and treat themselves.
He hopes Daisy will eventually attend one so he can reconnect with her.
What does the American Dream traditionally promise people who work hard?
The opportunity for wealth, success, love, and happiness.
"Stay gold, Ponyboy. Stay gold."
Johnny Cade
In The Outsiders, what does Ponyboy's hair represent?
It represents his identity as a Greaser. It sets him apart from the Socs and brings him closer to his group.
It reminds him of a simpler, more romanticized version of a gallant, heroic life.
What does Gatsby's mansion reveal about his success?
It shows his wealth and success, but also his desire to impress Daisy and prove that he belongs among the wealthy.
How does Gatsby try to achieve the American Dream?
He transforms himself, inherits money, and tries to use his success to win Daisy and create the life he imagined.
"I hope she'll be a fool; that's the best thing a girl can be in this world."
Daisy Buchanan
In The Great Gatsby, what does the green light symbolize?
Gatsby's longing, hopes, and dreams; especially his dreams of being with Daisy.
What does Ponyboy realize after his conversation with Randy?
He realizes that Bob was more complicated than the violent image he was know for, and that Socs have personal struggles too.
Why does Gatsby want Daisy to say that she never loved Tom?
He wants to believe that their relationship can completely erase the past and return to the life he has imagined with her.
How does Ponyboy's idea of the American Dream differ from Gatsby's?
"Can't repeat the past? Well of course you can!"
Jay Gatsby
In The Outsiders, what does the sunset symbolize?
The sunset symbolizes that Greasers and Socs aren't so different because they share the same sky.
How does the church fire change the way Ponyboy and Johnny see themselves.
Saving the children gives them a sense of courage and purpose and challenges their beliefs that they are simply delinquents.
Why is Nick both fascinated and critical of Gatsby?
He admired Gatsby's hope and ambition but recognizes the dishonesty and corruption that surrounds his lifestyle.
Both novels show characters who want to rise above their circumstances. What does each novel suggest can stand in the way of achieving the American Dream?
Stereotypes, expectations, poverty, and societal circumstances are all factors that limit individuals opportunities to achieve a better life.
"It's okay. We aren't in the same class. Just don't forget that some of us watch the sunset too."
Ponyboy Curtis.
Johnny tells Ponyboy to "stay gold." What does gold symbolize in regards to Ponyboy's character?
Gold represents innocence, beauty, and youth. Johnny encourages Ponyboy to hold onto these qualities even through the hardships they have faced.
Why does Hinton show both Greasers and Socs experiencing pain? What larger message does this create?
it shows social differences do not eliminate shared human experience. It suggests that "the grass is always greener on the other side," and empathy can break down the division created by class and stereotypes.
What is Fitzgerald suggesting through Gatsby's death about the American Dream?
Gatsby's death suggests the pursuit of wealth, status, and idealism can be destructive and corrupt.
How do The Outsiders and The Great Gatsby challenge the idea that hard work alone is enough to achieve the American Dream?
Both novels show that opportunities are heavily based on social class and circumstance. Gatsby has tangible money, but he is still not able to fully enter Daisy's world. The Greasers didn't have proper parental figures to put them in a position for success.
"He must have felt that he had lost the old warm world, paid a high price for living too long with a single dream."
Nick Carraway
In The Great Gatsby, what do the eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg represent?
They represent judgment, observation, people being watched, and the need to constantly be performing.