Questions and Answers
What describes the valley of ashes?
A desolate and forsaken expanse of formerly developed land.
Who is Tom's mistress?
Myrtle Wilson
What notable feature is depicted on the billboard in the valley of ashes?
The Eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg
What does Tom do to Myrtle when she mentions Daisy's name?
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What is George Wilson's role in the story?
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The valley of ashes is described as a fantastic farm where ashes grow like _____ into the ridges.
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What does Nick perceive as the spiritual significance of the eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg?
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Study Notes
Chapter 2 Summary
- Chapter set in the "valley of ashes," a desolate area symbolizing moral decay and lost dreams, located between West Egg and New York.
- The valley is marked by a decaying billboard featuring the Eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg, described as "blue and gigantic," representing a moral watchfulness.
- Nick Carraway first meets Tom Buchanan's mistress, Myrtle Wilson, during a trip to New York.
- Myrtle arranges to leave her husband, George Wilson, under the guise of visiting her sister.
- Myrtle's character is portrayed as sensuous and discontented, revealing her deep dissatisfaction with her marriage.
- Tom, involved in an affair, brings Myrtle to his apartment where they indulge in a drunken party with Myrtle's friends, including her sister Catherine and the McKees.
- Myrtle becomes increasingly outspoken and intoxicated, leading to an uncontrolled outburst about Tom's wife, Daisy.
- Tom reacts violently, breaking Myrtle's nose in response to her yelling Daisy's name, demonstrating his brutal and controlling nature.
- The chapter concludes with Nick escorting Mr. McKee home, highlighting the emptiness of the characters' lives.
Analysis
- The disparity between the valley of ashes and the vibrant life of the Eggs foregrounds moral and social contrasts in the narrative.
- The imagery of the valley represents the plight of the lower class and the disregard of the wealthy for those beneath them.
- The Eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg symbolize the absence of traditional spirituality and the moral implications of the characters' actions.
- Fitzgerald critiques the 1920s culture, emphasizing the shift towards recklessness and loss of spiritual connections amid societal change.
- Tom's domineering behavior toward Nick and Myrtle showcases his privileged, oppressive attitude, positioning him as antagonistic.
- George Wilson's character illustrates despair and the hopelessness of those trapped in the valley, foreshadowing his fate and his connection to moral decay.
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Description
Explore the summary of Chapter 2 in The Great Gatsby. This chapter introduces the valley of ashes, showcasing its desolation and the significance of the Eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg. Discover key themes and symbols as we delve into this pivotal moment in the novel.
