Characters & Roles
Who is the narrator?
Nick Carraway
What does the green light represent?
Gatsby’s hopes and dreams for the future, especially with Daisy
What theme is reflected in Gatsby’s dream?
The decline/illusion/unatainability of the American Dream
Why does Tom confront Gatsby in Chapter 7?
He suspects Daisy loves Gatsby and wants to assert control
Is Nick Carraway a reliable narrator?
It's debatable—he’s emotionally involved but tries to be objective
What is Gatsby’s real name?
James Gatz
What is the Valley of Ashes and what does it symbolize?
A desolate industrial wasteland symbolizing moral decay
DOUBLE JEOPARDY!
What theme is explored in the final image of the book: “boats against the current”?
The struggle against time and inevitable failure
What happens to Myrtle Wilson?
She is struck and killed by Daisy driving Gatsby’s car
How does Fitzgerald’s use of color imagery support characterization?
Colors like gold (wealth), white (false purity), and gray (moral decay) help symbolize character traits and social status.
What does Daisy call her daughter?
Blessed Precious
Pammy
What does East Egg vs. West Egg symbolize?
East Egg = old money, West Egg = new money
How does Fitzgerald use the wealthy - Tom, Daisy, and Gatsby - to critique the American Dream in the novel?
By showing that wealth does not guarantee happiness or morality
How did Gatsby become wealthy?
Through illegal bootlegging and shady business deals
What does the yellow/gold color of Gatsby’s car and accessories signify?
Wealth and extravagance, but also corruption and superficiality beneath the glamour.
Who kills Myrtle?
Daisy Buchanan
Where does Gatsby throw his parties?
His mansion in West Egg
What is the central theme of the novel?
The corruption of the American Dream
Why does Daisy ultimately stay with Tom?
She prefers the security and status Tom provides
DOUBLE JEOPARDY!
What is Nick’s final opinion of Gatsby, and how does it reflect the novel’s tone?
Despite Gatsby’s flaws, Nick sees him as noble and hopeful, setting him apart from the morally hollow elite—this reflects the novel’s elegiac and critical tone.
Where does Gatsby live?
West Egg, symbolizing new money
What does Daisy symbolize?
Illusion, beauty, and unattainable perfection
Golden Girl
What does Gatsby’s death symbolize?
The death of idealism and failure of dreams
What major event happens at the Plaza Hotel?
The emotional confrontation between Gatsby and Tom over Daisy
How is the color white used to describe Daisy, and what does it suggest?
It represents false purity and innocence—her elegance masks moral emptiness.