The Great Gatsby Study Questions Ch6

Questions and Answers

What was Gatsby's real name? Why and when did he change it?

Gatsby's real first name was Jimmy Gatz. He changed it to Jay Gatsby to reflect his new lifestyle as he thought the name Jimmy Gatz was lower-class.

In what way was Dan Cody involved in Gatsby's destiny?

Gatsby met Dan Cody when he was 17 years old after he saw Dan's yacht in Lake Superior, seizing the opportunity to leave his old life behind.

Why does Tom attend Gatsby's party? How does this scene reveal contrast between Tom and Gatsby?

Tom attends to try and ruin Gatsby. He talks down about the party, highlighting his disdain for Gatsby’s new money lifestyle.

What is deeply ironic in Tom's statement, '...I may be old fashioned in my ideas, but women run around too much these days to suit me?'

The irony lies in Tom being the one who actually runs around, despite accusing women, as he has had affairs himself. Signup and view all the answers

Note the reactions of Tom and Daisy at different times during Gatsby's party. Did they enjoy themselves? Explain.

Tom was rude throughout the party, and Daisy did not enjoy herself, which left Gatsby crestfallen. Signup and view all the answers

What suspicions does Tom have about Gatsby? What does he vow to do?

Tom suspects Gatsby is a criminal or big bootlegger and vows to track down information about him. Signup and view all the answers

What do Nick and Gatsby talk about after the party?

Gatsby tells Nick he wants Daisy to leave Tom and marry him again, to return with him to Louisville. Signup and view all the answers

What is Gatsby expecting of Daisy that prompts Nick to warn him, 'I wouldn't ask too much of her...You can't repeat the past?'

Gatsby expects Daisy to leave Tom and repeat their past relationship. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Gatsby's Identity

Gatsby's real name was "Jimmy Gatz"; he adopted "Jay Gatsby" to create a new identity reflecting his aspirations.
The name change symbolizes his desire to escape his lower-class origins.

Dan Cody's Influence

Gatsby met Dan Cody at the age of 17 when he saw Cody’s yacht anchored dangerously in Lake Superior.
This encounter served as a pivotal moment for Gatsby, marking the beginning of his transformation into a wealthy socialite.

Tom's Motivation

Tom Buchanan attended Gatsby's party with the intention of undermining Gatsby.
His East Egg background leads him to look down on Gatsby’s West Egg soiree, highlighting the class divide.

Irony in Tom's Statement

Tom claims women "run around too much," despite being an unfaithful husband himself.
This hypocrisy showcases Tom's double standards regarding fidelity in relationships.

Reactions of Tom and Daisy at the Party

Tom displays rudeness and disdain throughout the party, indicating his disconnection from Gatsby's world.
Daisy's lack of enjoyment is evident, and Gatsby's disappointment stems from Tom's derogatory remarks about Gatsby's wealth.

Tom’s Suspicions of Gatsby

Tom suspects Gatsby of being a criminal or a bootlegger, associating him with new wealth and extravagance.
He commits to investigating Gatsby further, indicating his growing resentment and paranoia.

Nick and Gatsby's Conversation

After the party, Gatsby expresses to Nick his desire for Daisy to abandon Tom and return to him.
Gatsby yearns to rekindle their past romance and dreams of a life together in Louisville.

Gatsby's Expectations of Daisy

Gatsby hopes Daisy will leave Tom and recreate their previous relationship, expecting a return to their former happiness.
Nick cautions Gatsby about his unrealistic expectations, emphasizing that the past cannot be replicated.

Description

This quiz focuses on Chapter 6 of 'The Great Gatsby', testing your knowledge with flashcards on key concepts and character developments. Explore Gatsby's transformation and the influences that shaped his identity. Ideal for students preparing for exams or discussions about the novel.