Characters and Relationships
Who is the narrator of the novel?
Nick Carraway
Where is Gatsby’s mansion located?
West Egg, next to Nick's.
Who says, “I hope she’ll be a fool — that’s the best thing a girl can be in this world, a beautiful little fool”?
Daisy Buchanan.
How does Nick’s initial perception of Gatsby differ from the rumors surrounding him?
At first, Nick is skeptical and influenced by wild rumors, but when he meets Gatsby, he realizes Gatsby is polite, reserved, and deeply motivated by his dream of winning Daisy back.
Who does Nick visit for dinner in Chapter 1?
Tom and Daisy Buchanan
Who is Tom Buchanan having an affair with?
Myrtle Wilson.
What does the Valley of Ashes symbolize?
Poverty, moral decay, and the consequences of wealth disparity.
Who says, “Can’t repeat the past?… Why of course you can!” and what does this reveal?
Gatsby; it reveals his obsession with recreating his past with Daisy.
How does Myrtle perceive Tom’s feelings for her?
She believes Tom will leave Daisy for her, though Tom never intends to.
What surprising thing does Gatsby invite Nick to do in Chapter 3?
Gatsby personally invites Nick to one of his parties, which is unusual since most guests aren’t invited.
What is Jordan Baker’s profession?
A professional golfer.
Which Egg do Tom and Daisy live in?
East Egg.
How does the following quote connect to the theme of illusion: “People were not invited — they went there”?
It highlights the chaotic, superficial nature of Gatsby’s parties and the idea that appearances matter more than genuine relationships.
How does Nick’s perception of Jordan Baker change over Chapters 1–4?
At first, he admires her confidence and charm, but he later realizes she’s dishonest and somewhat careless.
Why does Tom break Myrtle's nose in chapter 2?
Tom breaks Myrtle’s nose in Chapter 2 because she keeps repeating Daisy’s name during their argument.
What does Myrtle ask Tom to buy her when they were out on the town with Nick?
A dog. (specifically an Atelier)
Where does Nick first meet Gatsby?
At Gatsby’s mansion during one of his parties.
"I’ve been trying to get hold of you all afternoon, Mr. Buchanan. I need to talk to you about that car."
George Wilson.
"This is the man who made the world believe in him. He is the son of God, born of nothing, transformed by his own ambition…"
This illustrates Gatsby’s self-fashioned persona. People perceive him as mysterious, wealthy, and larger-than-life, but the reality is he comes from humble beginnings.
How does Gatsby’s behavior at his parties contrast with the guests’?
Gatsby doesn’t drink or mingle much; he throws extravagant parties to attract Daisy but doesn’t indulge in the chaos himself, unlike most guests who are there to party freely.
How many times did Nick say he has been drunk in his life?
Twice.
Compare East Egg and West Egg in terms of social class and values.
East Egg represents “old money,” social status, and traditional wealth; West Egg represents “new money,” ambition, and flashy displays of wealth without the same social standing.
Analyze this quote: “I am one of the few honest people I have ever known.” How does this reflect Nick’s role as the narrator?
Nick sees himself as objective and trustworthy, but his biases and judgments throughout the story reveal he’s not entirely reliable — showing the complexity of perception in the novel.
"He’s a gambler… he’s a gambler who’s very careful with his business, and very secretive. People whisper all sorts of things about him, but you never really know what’s true."
This shows the contrast between how society perceives Wolfsheim (mysterious, possibly criminal) and the limited reality Nick actually knows.
Who tells Nick the truth about Gatsby and Daisy’s past?
Jordan Baker, Daisy's good friend.