The Great Gatsby: Themes and Character Analysis

Study Notes

Nick’s Role in Gatsby’s Funeral

Nick takes charge of Gatsby's funeral, highlighting his unique care and closeness to Gatsby.
He represents one of the few individuals in Gatsby's life who valued him for more than his wealth.

Tom and Daisy’s Escape

Tom and Daisy flee to evade accountability, mimicking their previous escape from Chicago due to a scandal.
They are characterized as "careless" people, indifferent to the damage they have caused.
Despite Gatsby's influence on Nick, Tom and Daisy remain largely unchanged.

Nick’s Reaction to Gatsby’s Criminal Activities

Initially disgusted by the revelations about Gatsby’s past, Nick later reconciles with Gatsby's identity.
Accepting that Gatsby is dead, Nick feels the need to move forward, indicating a significant moral growth.

Importance of Mr. Gatz

Mr. Gatz's arrival signifies Gatsby's humble beginnings and parental connection.
His presence underscores the emotional bond and concern he still holds for Gatsby.

Irony of Mr. Gatz’s Pride

Mr. Gatz admires the grandeur of Gatsby's wealth but wishes for his son’s presence over material success.
This reflects a deeper sentiment of familial love overshadowed by societal accomplishments.

Mr. Gatz's Emotional Conflict

He experiences a blend of sorrow and pride during Gatsby's funeral, evoking mixed feelings.
Overwhelmed by Gatsby’s success, he grieves not for the person but for the lost potential of the "big man" Gatsby might have become.

Mr. Gatz on James J. Hill

The irony in Mr. Gatz’s admiration for James J. Hill highlights Gatsby’s questionable means of acquiring wealth despite his ambitions.
Gatsby desired to be a business mogul, contrasting with Hill’s genuine success in building an empire.

Nick’s Care for Gatsby

Nick organizes Gatsby’s funeral out of genuine concern, contrasting with others who ignored Gatsby's reality.
His actions reflect an authentic friendship that did not hinge on Gatsby's financial status.

Gatsby’s Childhood Discipline

Gatsby's childhood interactions reveal a consistent pattern of determination and self-discipline that carries into adulthood.
His unwavering pursuit of success, particularly in his love for Daisy, exemplifies his lifelong dedication.

Attendance at Gatsby’s Funeral

The funeral is sparsely attended, with only a few individuals expressing true regard for Gatsby.
The limited attendance emphasizes Gatsby's isolation and the superficiality of his relationships.

Nick's Final Encounter with Jordan

Nick’s last meeting with Jordan is a turning point where he decides to abandon the fast-paced life of New York.
This decision reflects his desire for sincerity and a return to his Midwestern roots.

Nick on Tom and Daisy’s Carelessness

Nick labels Tom and Daisy as "careless people" for their thoughtless and destructive behaviors toward others.
Tom’s abusive nature and manipulative actions showcase his moral bankruptcy, while Daisy’s passive complicity reveals her lack of accountability.
Their wealth allows them to evade consequences, leaving devastation in their wake, illustrating their profound selfishness.

Description

Explore key themes and character dynamics in 'The Great Gatsby'. Delve into Nick's role during Gatsby's funeral, the carelessness of Tom and Daisy, and Nick's evolution regarding Gatsby's past. This quiz highlights the moral complexities and relationships within the narrative.