The Mysterious Mr. Gatsby
Was Gatsby actually honored for his service in the war?
Yes.
To introduce George Wilson, the text states, “He was a blonde, spiritless man, anemic and faintly handsome.” What does Fitzgerald most likely want the reader to understand from the description of George as “anemic.”
He is pale.
Nick states, “I wanted to get out…but each time I tried to go, I became entangled in some wild, strident argument which pulled me back, as if with ropes, into my chair.” What does this simile reveal about how Nick feels at this party?
This simile reveals that Nick feels trapped.
Who was driving the car that killed Myrtle?
Daisy.
Identify the mood of the Valley of Ashes.
Hopeless.
After Myrtle’s death, what did Gatsby plan to do?
Take the blame for Daisy.
Why does Daisy cry when Gatsby is throwing his shirts?
She is regretful of her decision to marry Tom; if she had waited for Gatsby, she could have had everything she wanted, and she no longer believes that is possible.
What does the green light symbolize?
This green light symbolizes the perfect future (Gatsby hopes to create with Daisy).
In chapter seven, why did Myrtle run into the street?
She believed Tom was driving the yellow car, and she wanted to escape with him.
After Myrtle’s death, what did Daisy plan to do?
Frame Gatsby.
Did Gatsby actually attend Oxford? If so, how long he was there?
Yes; he was there for five months.
What does Gatsby’s teenage schedule reveal about him?
He was extremely intentional; his pursuit for a better life was his driving motivation.
Contrasted by East Egg, what are the Valley of Ashes meant to reveal?
Contrasted by East Egg, the Valley of Ashes reveals that a lack of money contributes to limited opportunity, feelings of hopelessness, and less protection.
What is the car wreck in Gatsby's front yard meant to reveal about the guests at his parties?
They are reckless and irresponsible. Overall, they are not respectable people.
Paraphrase the following sentence: “I’m inclined to reserve all judgements.”
I am unlikely to form opinions.
What was the actual occupation of Gatsby’s parents?
Unsuccessful farmers.
The scene in which Nick is riding in the car with Gatsby characterize Gatsby in a particular way. Identify one word to describe how he is characterized.
This scene in the novel characterizes Gatsby as a shady or mysterious man.
Gatsby states “Her voice is full of money” (120). What does this metaphor reveal about Daisy’s voice? Hint: consider positive things that people associate with money.
This line reveals that Daisy’s voice reminds one of opportunity, luxury, and excitement .
In chapter seven, Nick realizes that it is his birthday. What is Fitzgerald's intended effect in this scene?
The intended effect of this scene is to reveal that Nick is too invested in their drama, while they hardly invest in what is going on with him at all.
The text states, “Making a short, deft movement, Tom Buchanan broke her nose with his open hand.” Explain how the sentence reflects the action.
The sentence and action are both quick and sudden.
What was Gatsby’s real name at birth?
James Gatz.
The information provided by Jordan Baker at tea characterize Gatsby in a particular way. Identify one word to describe how he is characterized.
This scene in the novel characterizes Gatsby as a determined and romantic man.
In chapter seven, Tom and George both realize that their wives are having an affair. Contrast their responses.
Tom becomes aggressive and confronts the situation; George becomes weak and tries to escape the situation.
Explain how the Eyes of Dr. TJ Eckleburg, in particular, impact the mood of the Valley of Ashes.
The Eyes of Dr. TJ Eckleburg emphasize that the mood is hopeless because they are a symbol for the “god” which watches over the Valley of Ashes. Their god, described as faded and abandoned, inspires no hope, contributing to the hopelessness of the mood
“Possibly it had occurred to him that the colossal significance of that light had now vanished forever…his count of enchanted objects had diminished by one.”
When does Gatsby feel this way? What does it mean?