Questions and Answers
How does Nick describe himself at the beginning of the book?
He reserves judgement to others
Why has Nick come to the East?
To learn the bond business
How does Nick describe Tom Buchanan?
Arrogant, wealthy, athletic
Who is Jordan Baker and what does Nick find appealing about her?
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How does Daisy react to the phone calls from Tom's woman in New York?
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What is Gatsby doing when Nick first sees him?
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Notice how many times Fitzgerald uses the words hope or dream. Why does he do this?
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Does Nick reserve judgment in the novel?
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What is the day and year during the first scene at Daisy's house?
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What facts do you know about Nick, and what can you infer about him?
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What image does the author use to describe Jordan Baker and what does it mean?
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How does Nick react to Jordan?
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What does Tom's behavior reveal about his character?
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How does Nick meet Tom's mistress?
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How does Myrtle react to Tom's arrival?
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Describe George Wilson. How does he react to Tom's arrival?
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How does Myrtle behave as the party progresses?
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Why, according to Catherine, has Tom not left Daisy to marry Myrtle?
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Why did Tom break Myrtle's nose? How is this consistent with the author's description of him?
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Describe the 'valley of ashes.' What does it look like and what does it represent?
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Describe Mr. Wilson and Myrtle. Do they seem to fit into the setting?
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What more have you learned about Nick in this chapter? Is he similar or different than the people he spends his time with?
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Study Notes
Character Descriptions and Relationships
- Nick Carraway offers a unique perspective; he claims to reserve judgment of others, indicating a level of introspection and open-mindedness.
- Tom Buchanan is portrayed as arrogant, wealthy, and athletic, suggesting he embodies privilege and entitlement.
- Daisy Buchanan, Tom's wife, feels compelled to maintain politeness during uncomfortable phone calls from Tom's mistress, reflecting her conflicted emotions.
- Jordan Baker, Daisy's friend, captivates Nick with her charm and carefree attitude, indicating a budding attraction.
Setting and Symbolism
- The initial scene at Daisy's house is set on June 7, 1921, establishing a specific historical context.
- Nick first sees Gatsby standing in his yard, gazing at a distant green light, symbolizing hope and the elusive American dream.
- The "valley of ashes" represents the decay of the American dream, contrasting with the opulence present in the lives of the wealthy characters.
Major Themes
- Fitzgerald frequently emphasizes hope and dreams to highlight the central theme of the American dream and its transformations.
- Tom's violent behavior, such as breaking Myrtle's nose over her repeated mention of Daisy, showcases his abusive attitude toward women, revealing deeper themes of power and masculinity.
Key Events
- Nick travels to the East for a career in the bond business, suggesting a desire for advancement and change in his life.
- Nick's introduction to Tom's mistress, Myrtle, occurs during a trip to New York, setting the stage for the unfolding drama.
- Myrtle’s transition into drunkenness at the party illustrates her changing demeanor and social aspirations, contrasting with her social reality.
Inferences about Characters
- George Wilson, Myrtle's husband, is described as spiritless yet slightly handsome, highlighting the struggles of the working class.
- Tom's treatment of both Myrtle and Daisy suggests a contemptuous attitude towards women, reflecting societal norms of the time.
- Nick, despite his affluent background, stands out as an observer who feels different from the people around him, hinting at his eventual moral conflicts.
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Test your knowledge of the first two chapters of 'The Great Gatsby' with these flashcards. Explore key themes and character descriptions such as Nick, Tom Buchanan, and Jordan Baker. Perfect for students wanting to reinforce their understanding of the text.