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Questions and Answers
What is the plot summary involving Tom, Nick, and Myrtle Wilson?
What is the plot summary involving Tom, Nick, and Myrtle Wilson?
Tom introduces Nick to his mistress, Myrtle Wilson, and they go to an apartment in New York where a small party takes place.
What does Nick describe about the 'valley of ashes'?
What does Nick describe about the 'valley of ashes'?
A desolate area between West Egg and NYC, presided over by the huge bespectacled eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleberg.
What occurs at the party involving Tom and Myrtle in the city?
What occurs at the party involving Tom and Myrtle in the city?
Myrtle buys a dog and Nick gets gradually drunk while Catherine discusses Gatsby.
What happens at the end of the chapter related to Tom and Myrtle?
What happens at the end of the chapter related to Tom and Myrtle?
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What does Fitzgerald aim to show through Nick's writing in the Midwest?
What does Fitzgerald aim to show through Nick's writing in the Midwest?
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What significance do the eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleberg hold in the novel?
What significance do the eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleberg hold in the novel?
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How do the Wilsons' living situation contrast with Nick's?
How do the Wilsons' living situation contrast with Nick's?
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What does Tom's relationship with Myrtle illustrate about his views?
What does Tom's relationship with Myrtle illustrate about his views?
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How does Fitzgerald depict the drinking party in Chapter 2?
How does Fitzgerald depict the drinking party in Chapter 2?
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Study Notes
Chapter 2 Summary
- Tom Buchanan introduces Nick Carraway to his mistress, Myrtle Wilson, in New York City.
- Nick describes the 'valley of ashes', a bleak area between West Egg and NYC, dominated by the eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleberg on an advertising billboard.
- Myrtle is married to George Wilson, a mechanic who operates a garage in the valley of ashes.
Party in New York
- Myrtle joins Tom and Nick in the city, purchasing a dog among other items.
- The trio goes to Tom and Myrtle's apartment for a small party attended by Catherine and the McKees.
- Nick becomes increasingly inebriated during the gathering.
- Catherine discusses rumors about Gatsby, suggesting he may be related to the Kaiser.
Climax of Events
- Tensions rise when Tom violently breaks Myrtle's nose after she repeatedly mentions Daisy's name.
- The chapter concludes with Nick waiting for a train at Pennsylvania Station, reflecting on the events.
Commentary on Society
- Nick's narrative is set against the backdrop of Midwestern America, contrasting old-world and new-world values.
- The advertising hoarding of Doctor T.J. Eckleberg symbolizes the consumer culture of the 1920s and foreshadows themes of vision and morality.
- Fitzgerald critiques America's class divisions based on wealth; the Wilsons live at their workplace, while the wealthy remain detached from labor.
Analysis of Relationships
- Tom views his relationship with Myrtle in materialistic terms, purchasing gifts without emotional investment.
- This contrast highlights Gatsby's profound, idealistic love for Daisy, emphasizing different dimensions of affection.
Portrayal of Alcohol Consumption
- Fitzgerald skillfully depicts the drunken atmosphere of the party using understated techniques, avoiding exaggerated portrayals of intoxication.
- A memorable moment includes Nick humorously wiping shaving cream from McKee's face, illustrating the chaotic yet controlled nature of the scene.
- The chapter's context occurs during Prohibition in the U.S., further emphasizing the contrasts in behavior and societal norms.
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Description
Explore the key events and characters in Chapter 2 of 'The Great Gatsby'. This chapter introduces Tom Buchanan's mistress, Myrtle Wilson, and delves into the symbolism of the 'valley of ashes'. Perfect for reviewing important plot points and thematic elements.
