Gatsby's Parties
What is served in "real" at Gatsby's parties?
Alcohol/ Drinks
What does Nick get before attending Gatsby’s party?
Receives an invitation, which is peculiar.
What do people at the party believe about Gatsby’s past?
(That he killed a man.)
Who is the host of the party?
(Jay Gatsby.)
What does the car crash symbolize in this chapter?
(The carelessness of the wealthy.)
What kind of music is played at the parties?
Jazz / Orchestra Music
Who does Nick spend time with at the party?
Jordan Baker
What is another rumor about Gatsby?
That he was a German spy.
Who is the woman Nick becomes more interested in?
(Jordan Baker.)
What theme does Gatsby’s party reinforce?
(The excess of the Roaring Twenties.)
How do most people get invited to Gatsby’s parties?
They don't! They just show up!
*teacher will also accept coming with friends who have been invited in the past. Emphasis on just showing up.
What is Nick’s first impression of Gatsby?
Friendly, charming, but not what he expected
What surprising fact does Gatsby reveal to Nick?
(That he served in the war.)
What role does Owl Eyes play at the party?
(He is fascinated by Gatsby’s real books.)
What does Gatsby’s invitation to Nick symbolize?
(That Nick is special, unlike other guests.)
How do guests behave at Gatsby’s parties?
Reckless, careless, wild, excessive drinking
How does Nick describe Gatsby’s smile?
It makes you feel uniquely understood.
Why is Gatsby’s identity such a mystery?
(He lets rumors spread and rarely corrects them.)
What happens to Owl Eyes after the party?
(He crashes his car into a ditch.)
How does Gatsby’s party contrast with Nick’s values?
(Nick prefers authenticity, while Gatsby’s world is full of illusions.)
How does Gatsby’s party contrast with his personality?
He throws huge parties but remains private and reserved. He also remains sober, while everyone else gets pretty drunk.
What does Nick realize about himself at the end of the chapter? (In relation to Jordan)
He is beginning to develop feelings for Jordan.
How does Gatsby introduce himself to Nick?
(Casually, without mentioning he’s the host right away.)
How does Gatsby treat his guests?
(With extreme generosity—providing food, drinks, and entertainment.)
What larger theme does the mystery of Gatsby’s character connect to?
(The American Dream and its uncertainties.)