The Great Gatsby Chapter 2 Flashcards

Questions and Answers

List the three phrases used to describe the 'valley of ashes':

a fantastic farm where ashes grow like wheat into ridges and hills and grotesque gardens; where ashes take the forms of houses and chimneys and rising smoke; with a transcendent effort, of men who move dimly and already crumbling through powdery air.

Who is Dr. T.J. Eckleburg?

He is an optometrist (eye doctor).

Where is Dr. T.J. Eckleburg seen?

He is seen on a billboard.

What does Dr. T.J. Eckleburg stare over?

He stares over the valley of ashes. Signup and view all the answers

What is the proximity between the Wilsons' home and the valley of ashes?

They are isolated and bare. Signup and view all the answers

What impression of the Wilsons' lives can be inferred from their relationship with the valley of ashes?

It symbolizes poverty since they were poor and that area was poorly looking. Signup and view all the answers

What does Myrtle's sister tell Nick about Gatsby?

Catherine tells Nick that Jay Gatsby is the nephew or cousin of Kaiser Wilhelm. Signup and view all the answers

What impression does this give you about Gatsby?

It gives the impression that he is a powerful person and can do whatever he wants. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Tom break Myrtle's nose?

Myrtle kept saying Daisy's name and Tom got mad. Signup and view all the answers

What evidence is there to suggest that the eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg are a symbol for God?

The faded paint of the eyes can symbolize humanity losing its connection with God. Signup and view all the answers

What does the imagery of Myrtle's apartment imply?

It implies that her apartment is beautiful and expensive. Signup and view all the answers

How does the outward appearance of Myrtle's apartment differ from what happens inside?

The outward appearance is beautiful while the inside is sinful, arguing, and has bad relationships. Signup and view all the answers

What books and magazines does Nick find in Myrtle's apartment?

He finds scandal magazines. Signup and view all the answers

What do the titles of these magazines imply?

They imply that Myrtle 'looks up' to these books due to her affair with Tom. Signup and view all the answers

What is Myrtle's attitude toward 'the lower classes'?

She isn't happy about the class she was born into. Signup and view all the answers

Why is Myrtle's attitude toward the lower classes an example of dramatic irony?

It's ironic because she is in the lower class and chasing after wealthy people. Signup and view all the answers

What tone does Fitzgerald use when describing George Wilson?

The tone used is negative. Signup and view all the answers

Does Fitzgerald want readers to sympathize with George Wilson?

No, he doesn't want the reader to sympathize with George Wilson. Signup and view all the answers

Does Nick show approval of Tom and Myrtle's affair by staying with them throughout the chapter?

No, because he didn't want to offend them. Signup and view all the answers

Why do you think Tom and Myrtle are having an affair?

They believe they can't live forever and want to make the most of it. Signup and view all the answers

What does each of them hope to gain from the affair?

Myrtle wants money and popularity; Tom seeks to control and abuse her. Signup and view all the answers

Do you think they are happier as a result of their affair?

Yes, I think they are happier as a result of the affair. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Valley of Ashes Descriptions

Described as "a fantastic farm where ashes grow like wheat into ridges and hills and grotesque gardens."
Portrayed as a place "where ashes take the forms of houses and chimneys and rising smoke."
Imagery includes "men who move dimly and already crumbling through powdery air," reflecting desolation.

Dr. T.J. Eckleburg

An optometrist depicted on a billboard.
His gaze overlooks the valley of ashes, symbolizing a watchful presence.

Wilsons' Residence

The Wilsons live in close proximity to the valley of ashes, denoting isolation and poverty.
Their living conditions reflect their struggles and lack of material wealth.

Gatsby's Reputation

Myrtle's sister, Catherine, claims Gatsby is related to Kaiser Wilhelm, hinting at wealth and influence.
This association portrays Gatsby as a powerful figure capable of extraordinary actions.

Tom's Violence

Tom breaks Myrtle’s nose in a fit of rage when she repeatedly mentions Daisy’s name, showcasing his temper.

Symbolism of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg's Eyes

The faded paint of the eyes symbolizes humanity's disconnection from God, aligning with broader thematic elements.

Myrtle's Apartment

Described as "one slice in a long white cake," suggesting an appearance of beauty and luxury.
Contrasts sharply with the internal chaos and moral decay exemplified by sinful behavior and arguments.

Cultural Aspirations in Myrtle's Apartment

Contains scandal magazines, reflecting Myrtle's desire for a glamorous life and her affair with Tom.
This fascination indicates her aspiration to escape her lower-class origins.

Myrtle's Class Attitude

Exhibits disdain for her lower-class status, seeking to associate with wealthier individuals like Tom.
Dramatic irony exists as she embodies traits she criticizes in the lower class.

George Wilson's Presentation

Fitzgerald employs a negative tone to depict George Wilson.
The portrayal suggests a lack of sympathy for Wilson, as he is characterized as a "spiritless man" devoid of emotion.

Nick's Perspective

Nick does not approve of Tom and Myrtle’s affair, prioritizing politeness while in their presence to avoid confrontation.

Motivations Behind the Affair

Tom and Myrtle engage in their affair fueled by a desire for fulfillment and escape from their unsatisfactory lives.
Myrtle seeks financial gain and social elevation, while Tom exerts control and dismissive behavior toward her.

Emotional Outcomes of the Affair

Both characters likely find some degree of happiness in the affair, despite the underlying conflicts and socioeconomic disparities.

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Description

Test your knowledge of key phrases and characters from Chapter 2 of The Great Gatsby. This quiz includes important descriptions and details that will help you understand the chapter better. Perfect for preparing for discussions or exams on the novel.