The Great Gatsby Analysis

Questions and Answers

What does Gatsby mean when he says, 'Can't repeat the past? Why of course you can.'?

It highlights his belief that he can recreate his past relationship with Daisy.

Nick believes Gatsby is worth more than Daisy, Tom, and Jordan.

True

What does Gatsby's illusion of Daisy represent?

It represents unattainable perfection and high expectations.

What criticism does Nick make about Tom and Daisy?

He describes them as careless people who destroy things and shield themselves with wealth. Signup and view all the answers

What does Gatsby's 'dream' symbolize?

It symbolizes his aspiration to win back Daisy and to achieve the ideal life he envisioned. Signup and view all the answers

What is implied by the phrase 'Paid a high price for living too long with a single dream'?

Gatsby sacrificed everything for an unattainable dream. Signup and view all the answers

What does Gatsby mean by 'Watching over nothing'?

It suggests his futile hope and longing for dreams that are unfulfilled. Signup and view all the answers

What does Daisy mean when she says, 'Oh, you want too much!'?

She feels overwhelmed by Gatsby's expectations and his desire to recreate the past. Signup and view all the answers

What does Gatsby's background reveal about his character?

It shows his determination to rise above his humble origins. Signup and view all the answers

What does the phrase 'Only the dead dream fought on' suggest?

It suggests that Gatsby's idealism is unattainable and ultimately leads to despair. Signup and view all the answers

What does Nick discover about Gatsby's true self?

He realizes that Gatsby hides behind a facade of wealth and extravagance. Signup and view all the answers

What does Gatsby's effort to create a facade of wealth imply about his feelings for Daisy?

It shows that he believes he must appear wealthy to win her love. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Gatsby's Hope and Illusion

Gatsby's conviction that he can repeat the past highlights his delusions and inability to accept reality, particularly regarding Daisy's new life.
His belief in achieving success and wooing Daisy stems from a hopeful nature but becomes a profound weakness when it clashes with reality.

Nick's Judgment

Nick withholds judgment until he expresses that Gatsby is "worth the whole damn bunch put together," contrasting Gatsby's integrity with the moral decay of the upper class represented by Tom and Daisy.

Gatsby's Idealization of Daisy

Gatsby's grand illusion of Daisy creates unrealistic expectations that she cannot meet, illustrating his romantic and naïve nature, underscored by the term "colossal."

Critique of Tom and Daisy

Nick portrays Tom and Daisy as "careless people" who destroy lives without remorse, using their wealth as a shield against the repercussions of their actions.

The Illusory Dream

Gatsby's pursuit of Daisy represents a dream that remains perpetually out of reach; despite being close in proximity, he is fundamentally unequal to her socially, making his quest unachievable.

The Price of Single-Mindedness

Gatsby's fixation on a singular dream—Daisy—leads to his downfall, as he realizes the reality of her choice and the futility of his lifelong pursuit.

Eternal Optimism

Even in loss, Gatsby exemplifies eternal hope, watching over his dreams, which may symbolize the elusive American Dream or a relationship that exists only in his heart.

Pressure of Expectation

Daisy's exclamation reveals her discomfort with Gatsby's overwhelming expectations, emphasizing her focus on the present and future, contrasting sharply with Gatsby's desire to reclaim the past.

Gatsby’s Early Ambition

Gatsby's youth is marked by aspirations to escape his humble beginnings, illustrating his determination and foresight that eventually culminate in his transformation into a wealthy figure.

Love and Forgiveness

Tom's easy forgiveness contrasts with Gatsby's intense, all-consuming love for Daisy, showcasing how their differing values lead them to handle relationships and betrayals differently.

The Facade of Wealth

Gatsby's extravagant lifestyle serves as a cover for his lack of true background, revealing the disconnect between his self-created image and his genuine past, known only to Nick.

Illusion of Security

Gatsby's efforts to embody wealth and status for Daisy mask his true self, emphasizing his struggle to belong in the social stratum that he seeks, despite knowing he does not fit in.

Description

Explore the themes of hope, illusion, and judgment in 'The Great Gatsby.' This quiz delves into Gatsby's flawed pursuit of Daisy and Nick's contrasting views on morality and integrity. Analyze the impact of wealth and the idealization of dreams in the narrative.