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Questions and Answers
Why do you suppose Fitzgerald links the behavior of the characters to the hottest day of the summer?
Why do you suppose Fitzgerald links the behavior of the characters to the hottest day of the summer?
It's sweltering hot, everything is about to explode. It's the climax of the book.
When Gatsby briefly meets Daisy's little girl, he is somewhat unnerved. Symbolically, what does the little girl represent?
When Gatsby briefly meets Daisy's little girl, he is somewhat unnerved. Symbolically, what does the little girl represent?
The reality that Daisy and Tom are together and that they cannot repeat the past.
What causes Tom to realize that his wife has been having an affair with Gatsby?
What causes Tom to realize that his wife has been having an affair with Gatsby?
Tom witnesses a moment between Daisy and Gatsby.
What does Gatsby understand about Daisy's voice that Nick does not?
What does Gatsby understand about Daisy's voice that Nick does not?
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Describe the driving arrangement that brings the five characters into the city.
Describe the driving arrangement that brings the five characters into the city.
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Why do you suppose Tom decides to let Wilson finally have the car he has been promising to him?
Why do you suppose Tom decides to let Wilson finally have the car he has been promising to him?
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What indication is there at this point that, in Myrtle's mind anyway, Tom has been more than a fling?
What indication is there at this point that, in Myrtle's mind anyway, Tom has been more than a fling?
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Besides Myrtle, what other eyes 'kept their vigil' on the activities along the roadway?
Besides Myrtle, what other eyes 'kept their vigil' on the activities along the roadway?
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As always, there is a grain of truth in what Gatsby says. In what sense is he an Oxford man?
As always, there is a grain of truth in what Gatsby says. In what sense is he an Oxford man?
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Daisy says that Tom is 'revolting.' To what, can you imagine, is she referring?
Daisy says that Tom is 'revolting.' To what, can you imagine, is she referring?
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Why does Daisy have a tough time saying, as Gatsby wishes, that she never loved Tom?
Why does Daisy have a tough time saying, as Gatsby wishes, that she never loved Tom?
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Why is it so important to Gatsby that Daisy say she never loved Tom?
Why is it so important to Gatsby that Daisy say she never loved Tom?
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How has Gatsby earned most of his money, and what does Tom say that startles Gatsby?
How has Gatsby earned most of his money, and what does Tom say that startles Gatsby?
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What is Daisy's reaction to this news?
What is Daisy's reaction to this news?
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Describe the hit and run scene.
Describe the hit and run scene.
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Why does Tom make the point to Wilson that he just drove the coupe from New York and the yellow car does not actually belong to him?
Why does Tom make the point to Wilson that he just drove the coupe from New York and the yellow car does not actually belong to him?
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What indication is there that Tom really was fond of Myrtle?
What indication is there that Tom really was fond of Myrtle?
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What does the reader learn that Tom does not know?
What does the reader learn that Tom does not know?
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What is the scene that Nick observes taking place between Tom and Daisy in the kitchen?
What is the scene that Nick observes taking place between Tom and Daisy in the kitchen?
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Why does this scene suggest ill for Gatsby?
Why does this scene suggest ill for Gatsby?
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Study Notes
Chapter 7 Highlights
- Fitzgerald connects the characters' escalating tensions to the oppressive heat, symbolizing a boiling point in the narrative.
- Gatsby's unsettling encounter with Daisy's daughter symbolizes the reality of Daisy's life with Tom and signifies that the past cannot be recreated.
Character Dynamics
- Tom realizes Daisy's affair with Gatsby through a pivotal moment of intimacy between them, highlighting the emotional stakes.
- Gatsby perceives Daisy's voice as representative of wealth and privilege, indicating her desirability and allure.
Key Events
- The driving arrangement sees Daisy and Gatsby using Tom's car, while Tom and Nick travel in Gatsby's vehicle, creating a tension-filled juxtaposition.
- Tom feels empathy for Wilson and offers him the car, signifying his acknowledgment of Wilson’s suffering.
Myrtle's Perspective
- Myrtle's refusal to leave with Wilson indicates her deeper emotional investment in Tom, suggesting their relationship goes beyond a mere fling.
- The eyes of T.J. Eckleberg symbolize the moral decay and watchfulness of society over the characters' actions.
Gatsby's Background
- Gatsby's claim of being an "Oxford man" is validated as he attended the institution for five months under a military program, showcasing the ambiguity of his past.
Daisy's Conflict
- Daisy struggles to renounce her feelings for Tom, revealing her complicated emotions and past memories tied to him.
- Gatsby’s desperate need for Daisy to deny her love for Tom underscores his idealistic view of their relationship and the fantasy he has built around her.
Financial Unraveling
- Tom's unsettling knowledge of Gatsby's potentially illegal financial dealings shocks Gatsby, indicating Tom's suspicion and power.
- Daisy's reaction to the revelations shifts her loyalty back to Tom, stemming from fear of losing Gatsby's wealth and security.
Tragic Incident
- The hit-and-run incident depicts Daisy's reckless driving in Gatsby's car, where she accidentally kills Myrtle, adding to the story's dramatic tension.
- Tom strategically distances himself from responsibility by stating the yellow car isn't his, reflecting his self-preservation instincts.
Emotional Fallout
- Tom’s display of emotions after Myrtle's death reveals his complex feelings, showing he was not completely indifferent to her.
- The reader learns that Daisy was driving, a critical fact that heightens the stakes for all characters involved.
Conclusion of Character Ties
- The kitchen scene shows an unsettling alliance forming between Tom and Daisy, suggesting a newfound unity that poses a threat to Gatsby's aspirations.
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Description
Test your understanding of Chapter 7 in 'The Great Gatsby' with these flashcards. Explore key themes, character dynamics, and symbolic meanings that Fitzgerald incorporates in this pivotal chapter. Perfect for reinforcing your knowledge or preparing for discussions.