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Questions and Answers
Why does Gatsby throw huge, expensive parties for people he does not even know?
Why does Gatsby throw huge, expensive parties for people he does not even know?
Gatsby wants everyone to have a good impression of him and to show how much money he has to impress people.
Describe the two ways in which Nick differs from the other guests at the party.
Describe the two ways in which Nick differs from the other guests at the party.
Nick is actually looking for Gatsby and was invited, while most guests were not and talked badly about Gatsby.
What does the owl-eyed man find extraordinary about the books in Gatsby's library?
What does the owl-eyed man find extraordinary about the books in Gatsby's library?
The books are actually real, meaning that they have pages with words in them.
Why does the owl-eyed man describe Gatsby as a real Belasco?
Why does the owl-eyed man describe Gatsby as a real Belasco?
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What is the significance of the owl-eyed man?
What is the significance of the owl-eyed man?
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What does the reaction of the drivers of the wrecked automobile suggest about the values of Gatsby's guests?
What does the reaction of the drivers of the wrecked automobile suggest about the values of Gatsby's guests?
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What does Nick learn about Jordan after he's spent some time with her?
What does Nick learn about Jordan after he's spent some time with her?
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What is the significance of Jordan's lies?
What is the significance of Jordan's lies?
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What do Nick's judgments reveal about his character?
What do Nick's judgments reveal about his character?
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Describe Gatsby the first time Nick sees him.
Describe Gatsby the first time Nick sees him.
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What rumors have been told about Gatsby?
What rumors have been told about Gatsby?
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What does Nick think about Gatsby after meeting him?
What does Nick think about Gatsby after meeting him?
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How is Gatsby different from his guests?
How is Gatsby different from his guests?
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Why does Nick choose to share his thoughts and feelings with Jordan?
Why does Nick choose to share his thoughts and feelings with Jordan?
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Nick thinks he's one of the few honest people he knows. Why?
Nick thinks he's one of the few honest people he knows. Why?
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Study Notes
Gatsby's Parties
- Gatsby hosts extravagant parties to create a positive image of himself and to counter rumors about his past, such as being a killer.
- His intention is to impress others with his wealth and social status.
Nick's Unique Perspective
- Unlike most guests, Nick seeks to find Gatsby, the host, rather than simply indulging in the party.
- Guests at the party are mostly uninvited and gossip about Gatsby, illustrating their disrespect and superficiality.
Owl-Eyed Man's Discovery
- The owl-eyed man is astonished to find that Gatsby's books are real, highlighting Gatsby's complex identity.
- This character reveals that Gatsby has a deeper side that contrasts with others' assumptions about him.
Jordan Baker's Character
- Jordan is manipulative, avoiding intelligent individuals who might outsmart her, indicating her character's flaws.
- Accusations of cheating in golf tournaments further expose her dishonest nature.
Significance of Jordan's Lies
- Jordan lies to maintain an advantage over others, suggesting a self-serving attitude concealed beneath her aloof exterior.
Nick's Judgments
- Nick's observations about the guests’ behaviors display his critical viewpoint, revealing his disdain for their shallow lifestyles.
- He remains judgmental yet keeps these thoughts to himself, emphasizing his internal conflict about societal values.
Nick's First Encounter with Gatsby
- Nick describes Gatsby as a middle-aged, amiable man with a mysterious aura, suggesting an intriguing personality.
- Gatsby's friendly demeanor contrasts sharply with the drunkenness of his guests, hinting at his deeper ambitions.
Rumors Surrounding Gatsby
- Speculations about Gatsby include accusations of murder, espionage, bootlegging, and smuggling, adding to his enigmatic image.
- Fitzgerald emphasizes rumors to build suspense and reflect the societal tendency to judge based on hearsay rather than truth.
Nick's Impression of Gatsby
- After meeting Gatsby, Nick admires him despite Gatsby embodying the very excesses he criticizes in New York society.
- Gatsby challenges Nick's perceptions of morality and success, presenting a rare complexity.
Gatsby's Distinction from Guests
- Gatsby abstains from drinking and does not engage in the wanton behavior of his guests, emphasizing his self-control and contrasting lifestyle.
Connection Between Nick and Jordan
- Both Nick and Jordan are outsiders in their own right, forming a bond based on their shared feelings of alienation from mainstream society.
Nick's Perspective on Honesty
- Nick believes he is among the few honest individuals due to the dishonesty surrounding him, including deceptive relationships in his life.
- While he claims honesty, he is not devoid of secrets and recognizes that no one is completely truthful, indicating his self-awareness.
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Description
Test your understanding of Chapter 3 of 'The Great Gatsby' with these flashcard questions. Explore key themes such as Gatsby's lavish parties and Nick's unique perspective compared to other guests. Perfect for literature enthusiasts and students alike!
