The Great Gatsby: Themes and Character Analysis

Questions and Answers

What is the significance of Nick's taking charge of Gatsby's funeral arrangements?

Nick was one of the only people in Gatsby's life that actually cared about Gatsby and was actually close to him.

Why do Tom and Daisy leave?

They run away to escape responsibility, just as they left Chicago to escape some unspecified scandal.

How does Nick react to the phone call revealing Gatsby's criminal activities?

At first, he was disgusted, but then he realized he had to accept Gatsby for who he is and carry on.

What is the significance of Mr. Gatz's arrival?

It is a reminder of where Gatsby came from and shows that his father still cared about him. Signup and view all the answers

What is the irony of Mr. Gatz's admiration of the house?

He is proud of his son and all of his accomplishments, but he would still rather have his son than all the wealth that his son was able to achieve. Signup and view all the answers

What two emotions are pulling at Mr. Gatz?

He is moved by both sorrow and pride. Signup and view all the answers

What is the irony of Mr. Gatz's comment about James J. Hill?

Gatsby wanted to build a business but most likely gained his wealth untruthfully, whereas James J. Hill was a true businessman. Signup and view all the answers

Why did Nick take care of Gatsby's funeral?

Nick was the only person that cared about Gatsby for Gatsby and not for Gatsby's money. Signup and view all the answers

How was Jay Gatz's childhood schedule consistent with the adult Gatsby's behavior?

As a boy, Gatsby was completely focused and self-disciplined in the pursuit of his goals. Signup and view all the answers

Who attended Gatsby's funeral, and how is this significant?

The only people at the funeral are Nick, Gatsby's father (Mr. Gatz), 'Owl Eyes,' and a couple of random servants. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of Nick's last meeting with Jordan?

Nick decides to return to the Midwest and break it off with Jordan. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Nick call Tom and Daisy 'careless people'?

Because they are insensitive and thoughtless, causing harm to others without taking responsibility. Signup and view all the answers

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.