Podcast
Questions and Answers
NY city also represents a version of the __________ _____.
NY city also represents a version of the __________ _____.
American Dream
However the __________ and dishonesty at its core is also highlighted through the poor _____________ of the ___________.
However the __________ and dishonesty at its core is also highlighted through the poor _____________ of the ___________.
corruption, behaviour, characters
What does the Valley of Ashes symbolize?
What does the Valley of Ashes symbolize?
The failures of the American Dream
What do the people living in the Valley of Ashes, such as Wilson, Myrtle, and Michaelis, symbolize?
What do the people living in the Valley of Ashes, such as Wilson, Myrtle, and Michaelis, symbolize?
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How is Myrtle's life portrayed in chapter 7 regarding the Valley of Ashes?
How is Myrtle's life portrayed in chapter 7 regarding the Valley of Ashes?
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What themes does the Valley of Ashes symbolize?
What themes does the Valley of Ashes symbolize?
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What extreme possibilities does the symbol in the narrative represent?
What extreme possibilities does the symbol in the narrative represent?
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What is the longest chapter in the novel, described as the climax?
What is the longest chapter in the novel, described as the climax?
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Chapter 7 is considered the least important chapter of the novel.
Chapter 7 is considered the least important chapter of the novel.
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What major conflict comes to the surface in Chapter 7?
What major conflict comes to the surface in Chapter 7?
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What does the oppressive heat symbolize in Chapter 7?
What does the oppressive heat symbolize in Chapter 7?
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Why does Gatsby call off his parties?
Why does Gatsby call off his parties?
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What new information does Gatsby learn about Daisy in Chapter 7?
What new information does Gatsby learn about Daisy in Chapter 7?
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What does Tom accuse Gatsby of during the confrontation?
What does Tom accuse Gatsby of during the confrontation?
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What emotional state does Daisy experience during the fight between Tom and Gatsby?
What emotional state does Daisy experience during the fight between Tom and Gatsby?
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What ultimately portrays Gatsby's tragic situation by the end of Chapter 7?
What ultimately portrays Gatsby's tragic situation by the end of Chapter 7?
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What does Daisy's child symbolize in relation to her relationship with Gatsby?
What does Daisy's child symbolize in relation to her relationship with Gatsby?
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What does the weather foreshadow in Chapter 7?
What does the weather foreshadow in Chapter 7?
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What do the eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg symbolize?
What do the eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg symbolize?
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What does Gatsby's use of light represent throughout the novel?
What does Gatsby's use of light represent throughout the novel?
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How is Tom's character revealed during the conflict?
How is Tom's character revealed during the conflict?
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What major event occurs at the Plaza Hotel?
What major event occurs at the Plaza Hotel?
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What does Gatsby naively believe about Daisy's feelings for Tom?
What does Gatsby naively believe about Daisy's feelings for Tom?
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What is the significance of Daisy's voice according to Gatsby?
What is the significance of Daisy's voice according to Gatsby?
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Study Notes
Chapter 7: Key Themes and Character Analysis
- This chapter serves as the climax of the novel, occurring on the hottest day of the year, filling the atmosphere with tension.
- The confrontation between Gatsby and Tom reveals their significant flaws: Tom's prejudice and bullying versus Gatsby's illegal activities and fixation on the past.
- Gatsby cancels his lavish parties, showcasing his shift in focus from impressing Daisy to yearning for a genuine connection with her.
- The oppressive heat symbolizes the heightened emotions and complexities within the characters' affairs.
Plot Developments
- Nick travels to East Egg to have lunch with Tom and Daisy, encountering Gatsby and Jordan Baker there.
- Gatsby's astonishment at seeing Daisy's child highlights his disbelief at the reality of their situation and foreshadows the emotional turmoil ahead.
- Confrontation escalates at the Plaza Hotel when Tom openly accuses Gatsby of being a criminal and questions his intentions toward Daisy.
Characterization
- Gatsby's dream of rekindling his romance with Daisy leads to his tragic downfall when the past cannot be erased.
- Daisy reveals her true nature, being self-centered and shallow, exemplified by her indifferent attitude toward her child and her superficial love affairs.
- Tom's crude misogyny and hypocrisy come to the forefront, emphasizing his sense of superiority and possessiveness over Daisy.
Symbolism and Themes
- Weather serves as a powerful metaphor, reflecting the emotional states and tensions among characters, where heat intensifies the conflict.
- The green light symbolizes Gatsby's unreachable dreams and desires, representing hope and aspiration but ultimately leading to disappointment.
- The eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg serve as a symbol of moral decay in society, with various characters interpreting them through their own grief and loss.
Societal Commentary
- The Valley of Ashes presents a stark contrast to the wealth and excess of the era, highlighting the struggles of the working class through characters like Wilson and Myrtle.
- The disparity between wealth and poverty in the American Dream is underscored, questioning both the morality and ethics of those who pursue success without consideration for others.
Emotional and Moral Dynamics
- Nick emerges as a moral compass, contrasting the flawed characters around him, and reflecting on their actions with increasing disillusionment.
- The interactions between characters reveal deeper issues of love, loyalty, and the consequences of greed and ambition.
Conclusion
- Chapter 7 encapsulates the culmination of tensions built throughout the novel, exposing the inherent flaws in each character while leading them towards tragic outcomes. The symbolism of the summer heat, green light, and the Valley of Ashes coalesces to highlight the emptiness of their pursuits and the illusions of the American Dream.
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Dive into the critical events of Chapter 7 in 'The Great Gatsby,' the most pivotal chapter in the novel. These flashcards summarize key moments and character conflicts, enhancing understanding of themes like prejudice and ambition. Test your knowledge of this crucial section with these efficient study aids.