Questions and Answers
What device does Fitzgerald use to create a musical effect in chapter two? Cite some examples.
Fitzgerald uses alliteration. Examples include: railroad and runs, fantastic farm, grotesque gardens, cars crawl, obscure operations.
What is the valley of ashes on a literal level and what might it represent symbolically?
It is a large dump for ashes. Symbolically, it represents something used up, burnt out, ruined, corrupted, changed, or wasted.
What overlooks the valley of ashes? What might they symbolize?
The eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg overlook the valley of ashes. They may symbolize God, the all-seeing One.
Contrast Daisy with Myrtle, Tom's mistress.
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Analyze Nick's statement about Tom: 'I think he'd tanked up a good deal at luncheon, and his determination to have my company bordered on violence.'
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What method of character development does Fitzgerald use to develop the character of Myrtle?
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What is the significance of the name George Wilson?
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How has Fitzgerald used colors to support the developing theme of the American dream?
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What does Myrtle's statement about her sister say about society?
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How does Fitzgerald emphasize the smallness of the apartment?
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Study Notes
Literary Devices and Symbolism
- Fitzgerald employs alliteration to create musicality in the text with phrases like "railroad and runs" and "fantastic farm."
- The valley of ashes serves as a literal dump for ashes, symbolizing corruption, waste, and the remains of burned-out lives.
Symbolism of the Eyes
- The eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg overlook the valley, representing an all-seeing presence, possibly akin to God.
Character Contrasts
- Daisy is depicted as intelligent, affluent, and refined, representing old money, while Myrtle is characterized as less intelligent, poor, and rough, symbolizing new money.
Foreshadowing and Character Development
- Nick's observation about Tom's drinking hints at future violent tendencies, possibly hinting at domestic abuse.
- Myrtle's character is developed through direct description, actions indicative of her vulgarity, and speech that reflects her commonness.
Names and Ideals
- George Wilson's name reflects traits of a defeated idealist, paralleling President Wilson's struggles during and after WWI, symbolizing the loss of the American Dream.
Use of Color
- Fitzgerald uses color symbolism, such as red, white, and blue, to support the theme of the American Dream, connecting the narrative to patriotic imagery.
Societal Standards
- Myrtle's comment about her sister reflects societal perceptions and the existence of beauty standards dictated by societal elites.
Description of Space
- Anaphora is used to emphasize the cramped nature of Myrtle's apartment, highlighting its smallness through repeated structure.
Party Comparisons
- The contrasts between the rowdy party in Myrtle's apartment and the more refined Buchanan dinner demonstrate variations in social class and thematic elements within social gatherings.
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Description
Dive into the key concepts from Chapter 2 of 'The Great Gatsby' through these flashcards. Explore the literary devices used by Fitzgerald and their symbolic meanings, enhancing your understanding of this classic novel.
