Questions and Answers
What is the valley of ashes?
The valley of ashes is the railroads, houses, and chimneys.
How is Tom Buchanan like Myrtle Wilson and Daisy Buchanan like George Wilson physically and in personality?
Tom Buchanan and Myrtle Wilson are both cheaters, thick, and do not truly love their partners. Daisy Buchanan and George Wilson are both beautiful in face, slim in body, and very soft in character.
In what way does Fitzgerald indicate that Myrtle Wilson is not an intellectual?
Myrtle is convinced that she is truly loved by Tom and that he would leave his wife for her.
What social classes are represented at the party in the apartment and by whom?
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In what way is the party in the apartment different from the dinner at the Buchanans' in Chapter One?
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What significance do Doctor Eckleburg's eyes have?
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Do you think Tom will leave Daisy for Myrtle?
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Study Notes
Valley of Ashes
- The "valley of ashes" consists of railroads, houses, and chimneys, symbolizing a wasteland created by industrialization.
- It represents absolute poverty and hopelessness within society, contrasting with the wealth surrounding it.
Character Comparisons
- Tom Buchanan and Myrtle Wilson share traits of infidelity and lack of genuine love for their respective partners; both are physically imposing.
- George Wilson and Daisy Buchanan are both attractive and slender, reflecting a softer, more vulnerable nature that contrasts with their harsher surroundings.
Myrtle Wilson's Intellectual Status
- Myrtle mistakenly believes that Tom genuinely loves her and will leave his wife for her, indicating a lack of self-awareness and intellect.
Social Class Representation
- Tom represents the Upper Class, embodying wealth and privilege.
- Nick and Mr. and Mrs. McKee represent the Middle Class, demonstrating a degree of sophistication but with less wealth.
- Myrtle represents the Lower Class, highlighting the social stratification and struggles faced by those at the bottom.
Party Dynamics
- The party in the apartment is characterized by wildness and drunkenness, lacking the propriety of the Buchanan dinner.
- Both gatherings reveal Tom's abusive nature; however, his disrespect for Myrtle is more blatant and public compared to his treatment of Daisy.
Doctor Eckleburg's Eyes
- Doctor Eckleburg's eyes are frequently mentioned in the context of the valley of ashes, symbolizing the moral and spiritual decay of society and possibly serving as a god-like figure watching over the characters.
Tom's Loyalty
- Tom is unlikely to leave Daisy for Myrtle, viewing Myrtle merely as a utility for his desires, while he maintains a facade of respect toward Daisy in public settings despite his abusive behavior towards her.
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Description
This quiz explores key themes and character relationships in Chapter 2 of 'The Great Gatsby'. Answer questions about significant symbols, such as the valley of ashes, and the dynamic between characters like Tom Buchanan and Myrtle Wilson. Test your understanding of the text's deeper meanings.
