The Great Gatsby Chapter 1 Quiz

Questions and Answers

How does Nick describe himself at the beginning of the book?

Nick describes himself as coming from a wealthy family in the Midwest with a Yale education, and is inclined to reserve all judgements and is an excellent listener.

What advice from his father does Nick share with the reader?

His father told him to remember that not everyone has had the advantages he has.

How does Nick describe the settings of West Egg and East Egg?

West Egg is described as less fashionable, while East Egg is fashionable.

How does Nick describe Tom Buchanan?

Nick describes Tom as enormously wealthy, with shining arrogant eyes that give him a dominant appearance. Signup and view all the answers

How does Nick describe Daisy?

Nick describes Daisy as elegant, charming, and beautiful. Signup and view all the answers

Who is Jordan Baker?

Jordan Baker is Daisy Buchanan's close friend, a professional golf player, and a casual love interest of Nick. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of Tom's reference to the book he is reading?

Tom likes to learn about the class system, which reflects themes of racism and social stratification in the 1920s. Signup and view all the answers

How would you describe Daisy's state of mind during dinner?

Daisy feels cynical and is upset due to Tom's infidelity. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Daisy describe her childhood as a 'white girlhood'?

She believes that beauty is a necessity and that appearance always mattered. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Nick feel confused and disgusted after leaving the Buchanans' house?

Nick feels this way because he disagrees with Daisy and perceives a different set of values than those held by the Buchanans. Signup and view all the answers

What is Gatsby doing when Nick sees him at the end of the chapter?

Gatsby is standing with his hands in his pockets, regarding the silver pepper of the stars. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Nick Carraway's Character and Perspective

Nick comes from a wealthy midwestern family and possesses a Yale education.
He tends to reserve judgments about others, influenced by his father's advice to consider the challenges of others.
Chosen as a narrator to provide an impartial perspective, reflecting both wealth and a humble background.

Distinction Between West Egg and East Egg

West Egg is perceived as "less fashionable" and is home to "new money" individuals.
East Egg is considered "fashionable," populated by the "old money" elite, representing established wealth and social status.

Tom Buchanan's Description

Tom is depicted as "enormously wealthy," embodying dominance and aggression.
Described by his "shining arrogant eyes" and capable of exerting significant physical leverage, indicating a menacing presence.

Daisy Buchanan's Elegance

Daisy is portrayed as charming, elegant, and beautiful, wearing flowing white dresses during their first meeting.
Her face is described as "sad and lovely," hinting at deeper emotional complexities.

Introduction of Jordan Baker

Jordan Baker is Daisy’s close friend and an accomplished golfer, also acting as Nick’s romantic interest.
Her association with Daisy highlights the social sphere in which the characters operate.

Tom Buchanan's Literary Interests

Tom’s reading preferences reflect his interest in social hierarchy and racial themes, typical of the period's social issues.
His choice of "deep books with long words" indicates an attempt to project intelligence alongside his wealth.

Daisy's Inner Turmoil

Daisy exhibits a cynical demeanor during dinner, deeply affected by Tom's infidelity.
Her abrupt departure from the table signifies her distress and insistence on maintaining social appearances despite personal turmoil.

Daisy's Reflections on Femininity

Describes her youth as a "white girlhood," emphasizing societal expectations regarding beauty and privilege.
Expresses a desire for her daughter to be a "beautiful little fool," revealing her disillusionment with life and marriage.

Nick's Discomfort with the Buchanans

Nick feels "confused and a little disgusted" after leaving the Buchanan residence, indicating a clash with their values.
His discomfort stems from witnessing the superficiality and moral contradictions within their social class.

Introduction of Jay Gatsby

Nick observes Gatsby at the chapter's close, standing contemplatively and gazing at the stars.
Gatsby is rich and famous but maintains a low profile, enhancing the intrigue surrounding his character and reputation.

Description

Test your knowledge of Chapter 1 of 'The Great Gatsby'. This quiz explores Nick Carraway's self-description, the advice from his father, and insights into the settings of West Egg and East Egg. Additionally, you'll examine character descriptions of Tom Buchanan, Daisy, and the role of Jordan Baker.