The Great Gatsby - Chapter 9 Summary

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What begins the final chapter of The Great Gatsby?

Gatsby's funeral is organized

The police, reporters, and photographers storm Gatsby's house (correct)

Daisy and Tom leave on a trip

Nick learns about Gatsby's death

Why is Nick worried about handling Gatsby's burial arrangements?

He believes there must be someone closer to Gatsby who should be conducting the business at hand.

What does Nick learn when he phones Daisy about Gatsby's death?

She was unaware of Gatsby's death

She is planning to attend the funeral

She is devastated and at home

She has left on a trip with Tom and has no itinerary (correct)

What does Nick feel he must do for Gatsby?

Get somebody for Gatsby. Signup and view all the answers

In Nick's mind, Gatsby deserved to be alone.

False Signup and view all the answers

What does Wolfshiem explain about his involvement with Gatsby's funeral?

He won't be involved. Signup and view all the answers

How did Henry Gatz learn about Gatsby's death?

Through the Chicago newspaper. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Gatz refuse to take Gatsby's body to the Midwest?

"Jimmy always liked it better down East." Signup and view all the answers

Klipspringer calls Nick only to ask about his tennis shoes.

True Signup and view all the answers

What does Wolfshiem disclose about Gatsby's business?

He made Gatsby's fortune by using him in various questionable activities. Signup and view all the answers

How does Henry Gatz feel as he sees his son's possessions?

He grows more proud. Signup and view all the answers

What significance does the copy of "Hopalong Cassidy" hold?

It pointed out Gatsby's drive toward self-improvement Signup and view all the answers

What does Nick feel about Gatsby's solitary death?

He is struck by the bitter injustice. Signup and view all the answers

Owl Eyes made an appearance at Gatsby's funeral.

True Signup and view all the answers

What has Gatsby been seen as throughout the story?

An example of someone who achieved the American dream Signup and view all the answers

What does Nick worry about regarding Gatsby's portrayal after his death?

He worries that reporters will mythologize Gatsby, filling pages with half-truths and lies. Signup and view all the answers

How does Nick describe his own feelings about Gatsby?

"On Gatsby's side, and alone." Signup and view all the answers

What type of man is Nick described as?

A man of principles and integrity. Signup and view all the answers

The party people at Gatsby's house showed loyalty to him.

False Signup and view all the answers

What does Henry Gatz appear to be impressed with?

His son's possessions. Signup and view all the answers

How does Gatz measure Gatsby's merit?

Not on the type of man he was, but on his possessions. Signup and view all the answers

What is "Hopalong Cassidy" described as?

A famous Western adventure comic book series owned by Gatsby when he was young. Signup and view all the answers

Why is the book significant?

It helps explain where Gatsby's dreamer spirit came from. Signup and view all the answers

Where does Nick leave to go back to?

The Midwest. Signup and view all the answers

What does Jordan tell Nick in the end?

That he is the first man who has ever broken up with her and that she is engaged to someone else. Signup and view all the answers

Why did Tom feel no remorse when telling Wilson about the car?

"Entirely justified". Signup and view all the answers

What does the green light at the end of the book represent?

The hopes and dreams of society. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Final Chapter Overview

The chapter opens amid a chaotic scene at Gatsby's house, filled with police, reporters, and photographers.
Nick feels an increasing burden as he manages Gatsby's funeral arrangements, doubting that he is the appropriate person for the task.

Daisy's Departure

Nick learns Daisy and Tom have taken an unannounced trip, leaving him unable to contact her about Gatsby's death.

Gatsby's Isolation and Legacy

Nick believes Gatsby did not deserve the solitude of his death, highlighting his isolation.
Wolfshiem, a friend, sends a letter expressing his decision to avoid Gatsby's funeral, indicating a lack of loyalty.
Gatsby's father, Henry Gatz, learns of his son’s demise through a Chicago newspaper, illustrating Gatsby's disconnected relationships.

Reflections on Gatsby's Life

Gatz chooses to keep Gatsby's body on the East Coast, reflecting Jimmy's preference for that part of the country.
Klipspringer’s indifference is evident when he calls only for his tennis shoes, showing the superficial connections in Gatsby’s life.
On the day of the funeral, Warshiem admits to using Gatsby for illegal activities, revealing the exploitative nature of their relationship.

Artifacts of Gatsby's Aspiration

Henry Gatz fills with pride as he examines Gatsby’s belongings, emblematic of Gatsby's journey from poverty to wealth.
The book "Hopalong Cassidy," owned by young Gatsby, is noted for its representation of his aspirations and the structured schedule in its back pages, showcasing his ambition for self-improvement.

Themes of Injustice and Misrepresentation

Nick is struck by the injustice of Gatsby's lonely death, contrasting the lavish lifestyle previously depicted.
The presence of Owl Eyes at the funeral, though brief, underscores the shallow nature of Gatsby’s former social circle.
Nick grapples with the potential mythologization of Gatsby by reporters, fearing misrepresentation of his neighbor’s true character.

Personal Growth and Reflections

Nick's respect for Gatsby grows, and he acknowledges feeling "on Gatsby’s side," revealing a deepening empathy.
He embodies principles and integrity, distinguishing himself from the superficiality of Gatsby's former guests who exploited his hospitality.
Henry Gatz’s pride in Gatsby's possessions highlights a shallow measure of success, paralleling societal values.

Concluding Resolutions

As Nick returns to the Midwest, he seeks a place where morality and kindness are valued, contrasting with the East’s moral decay.
Jordan Baker, in a twist, tells Nick he's the first to break up with her and accuses him of deceit, emphasizing themes of betrayal and disillusionment.

Final Symbolism

The green light symbolizes the elusive nature of the American dream, representing both hope and unattainable aspirations in society.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Description

Explore key concepts and events from Chapter 9 of 'The Great Gatsby'. This quiz provides a summary and analysis of significant moments and characters, particularly focusing on the aftermath of Gatsby's demise and Nick's reflections. Test your knowledge through flashcards that highlight important themes and details.