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Questions and Answers
What does Gatsby mean when he says, 'Can't repeat the past? Why of course you can.'?
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.
Nick believes Gatsby is worth more than Daisy, Tom, and Jordan.
True
What does Gatsby's illusion of Daisy represent?
What does Gatsby's illusion of Daisy represent?
It represents unattainable perfection and high expectations.
What criticism does Nick make about Tom and Daisy?
What criticism does Nick make about Tom and Daisy?
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What does Gatsby's 'dream' symbolize?
What does Gatsby's 'dream' symbolize?
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What is implied by the phrase 'Paid a high price for living too long with a single dream'?
What is implied by the phrase 'Paid a high price for living too long with a single dream'?
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What does Gatsby mean by 'Watching over nothing'?
What does Gatsby mean by 'Watching over nothing'?
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What does Daisy mean when she says, 'Oh, you want too much!'?
What does Daisy mean when she says, 'Oh, you want too much!'?
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What does Gatsby's background reveal about his character?
What does Gatsby's background reveal about his character?
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What does the phrase 'Only the dead dream fought on' suggest?
What does the phrase 'Only the dead dream fought on' suggest?
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What does Nick discover about Gatsby's true self?
What does Nick discover about Gatsby's true self?
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What does Gatsby's effort to create a facade of wealth imply about his feelings for Daisy?
What does Gatsby's effort to create a facade of wealth imply about his feelings for Daisy?
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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.
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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.
