Questions and Answers
Who is Nick Carraway, and what is his role in the story?
Nick is a young man from Minnesota who, after being educated at Yale and fighting in World War I, goes to New York City to learn the bond business. He is the narrator of the novel.
Who are George and Myrtle Wilson, and how are they connected to Tom Buchanan?
George Wilson is a gas station and garage owner living in the 'Valley of Ashes.' Wilson's wife, Myrtle, is engaged in an affair with Tom Buchanan.
What are Gatsby's parties like?
Gatsby's parties are almost unbelievably luxurious, featuring a Rolls-Royce, a swimming pool, buffet tents overflowing with food, and a live orchestra.
How does Gatsby try to prove to Nick that he is telling the truth about himself?
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Why did Gatsby buy a mansion in West Egg?
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What scheme does Gatsby ask Nick to help him with?
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What does Gatsby want Daisy to do?
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What happens to Myrtle?
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What happens to Gatsby?
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What does Nick's view of the East imply?
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Why does Nick use the word 'compelled'?
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What theme about appearance and reality does Fitzgerald develop through Tom's extra-marital affair?
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What do Jordan's actions reveal about her?
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What do the descriptions of suits by Myrtle symbolize?
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How does the passage about Tom's mistress develop his character?
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How do details in a sentence contribute to Myrtle's character development?
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What is the best meaning of 'shiftlessness' as used in Myrtle's passage?
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What do the settings in this chapter reveal about society in the 1920s?
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Study Notes
Nick Carraway
- Young man from Minnesota; educated at Yale and served in World War I.
- Moves to New York City to learn the bond business; serves as the novel's narrator.
George and Myrtle Wilson
- George Wilson owns a gas station in the 'Valley of Ashes' between West Egg and New York City.
- Myrtle Wilson, his wife, is involved in an affair with Tom Buchanan, which complicates their lives.
Gatsby's Parties
- Extravagantly luxurious gatherings featuring a Rolls-Royce, swimming pool, abundant food, and live music.
- Guests are mesmerized by the lavish décor and atmosphere under the stars.
Gatsby's Truthfulness
- Gatsby attempts to validate his claims with a medal and a photograph from his past.
Gatsby's Mansion
- Purchased in West Egg primarily to rekindle his romance with Daisy Buchanan.
Invitation Scheme
- Gatsby enlists Nick's help to invite Daisy over for tea, keeping his identity a secret initially.
Gatsby's Desire for Daisy
- Yearns for Daisy to leave Tom Buchanan so they can be together, indicating his obsession with the past.
Myrtle's Fate
- Myrtle is killed by a hit-and-run driver, which devastates George Wilson.
Gatsby's Death
- Shot by George Wilson, who mistakenly believes Gatsby was responsible for Myrtle's death.
Nick's Perception of the East
- Views the East as a sophisticated contrast to the more mundane Middle West.
Tom Buchanan's Forcefulness
- Nick uses "compelled" to highlight Tom's domineering personality, illustrating his controlling nature.
Theme of Appearance vs. Reality
- Tom's affair exemplifies the theme that one's outward appearance often hides their true character.
Jordan Baker's Character
- Her interest in gossip indicates a self-indulgent and morally ambiguous personality.
Symbolism in Fashion
- Myrtle's comments on the suits worn by George and Tom represent the deep-seated class distinctions of the era.
Tom Buchanan's Carelessness
- Displays a lack of regard for the consequences of his actions, reflecting his privileged lifestyle.
Myrtle's Misguided Status
- Myrtle's behavior and attitude denote a delusion of increased social status due to her affair with Tom.
Definition of "Shiftlessness"
- Refers to laziness, highlighting Myrtle's disdain for the working class and perceived inadequacies.
1920s Society Reflections
- The settings illustrate a society characterized by newfound freedoms, indulgence, and excess, particularly among the upper classes.
Atmosphere at Gatsby's Parties
- The energy and eclectic mingling capture the vivacity and escapism of the Jazz Age, where guests engage in reckless celebration.
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Description
Explore key characters and themes from F. Scott Fitzgerald's classic novel 'The Great Gatsby' through these study guide flashcards. Learn about Nick Carraway, George and Myrtle Wilson, and their connections to the story. Ideal for students preparing for discussions or exams.