The Great Gatsby Quotes on Society and Class

Study Notes

Society and Class Themes in "The Great Gatsby"

Class Distinction and Decencies: The notion that decencies are unequally distributed at birth reflects the inherent class distinction in society, emphasizing how upbringing influences moral perceptions.
Desire for Uniformity: A yearning for a consistent moral order highlights the chaos and unpredictability of life, particularly in relation to societal expectations during wartime.
Economic Disparity: The narrator’s small, overlooked house symbolizes the stark contrast between socio-economic statuses, allowing a glimpse into the lives of the wealthy despite residing in a less desirable locale.
Critique of the Upper Class: Myrtle's disdain for the lower classes illustrates the snobbish attitudes prevalent among the wealthy, as they often view themselves as superior.
Animalistic Behavior at Gatsby's Parties: Guests at Gatsby's extravagant gatherings are compared to moths, indicating a superficial attraction to wealth and the hedonism that characterizes their lifestyle.
Social Judgment Through Appearance: Tom Buchanan's derision of Gatsby's pink suit signifies how appearance influences social credibility and acceptance within elite circles, highlighting prejudices based on dress and style.
Value of Authenticity: Nick's declaration that Gatsby is worth more than the "rotten crowd" reflects a critique of the moral decay among the rich, underscoring Gatsby's unique qualities and integrity.
Disappearance of Daisy and Tom: The abrupt departure of Daisy and Tom after Gatsby's death underscores themes of betrayal and the fleeting nature of relationships in elite society, illustrating their self-serving tendencies.

Description

Explore key quotes from 'The Great Gatsby' that delve into themes of society and class. This flashcard quiz will help you understand how Fitzgerald critiques social stratification through poignant expressions. Perfect for students wanting to enhance their literary analysis skills.