Questions and Answers
Describe the valley of ashes.
There are ashes everywhere.
Contrast the green light at the end of chapter 1 and the gray images in the valley of ashes.
The green light was beautiful and the gray images are depressing.
What are the eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg?
The eyes are huge and gigantic; the retinas are a yard high and they look out a pair of yellow spectacles.
Identify and describe Tom's mistress.
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Describe George Wilson.
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How is Myrtle's dream world apartment different from her real life?
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What further information does this chapter reveal about Gatsby?
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Identify and describe Catherine.
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What fight takes place between Tom and Myrtle near the end of the chapter?
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Study Notes
Valley of Ashes
- The Valley of Ashes serves as a stark wasteland between West Egg and New York City, filled with ashes, symbolizing desolation and moral decay.
Color Contrast
- Fitzgerald contrasts the beautiful green light, symbolizing hope and aspiration, with the depressing gray images of the Valley of Ashes, highlighting the disparity between the rich and poor.
Eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleberg
- The eyes are described as large, measuring a yard high, set in a billboard without a face, wearing yellow spectacles, symbolizing the scrutiny and moral judgment in the society.
Myrtle Wilson
- Myrtle, George Wilson’s wife, is depicted as being in her mid-thirties, faintly stout with extra weight; she exhibits a curious and eager personality.
George Wilson
- George Wilson appears to be naïve and dull, as characterized by Tom's comments about his intellect.
Myrtle's Dream World
- Myrtle feels regret for marrying George, whom she views as cheap; they have endured an unremarkable life over a garage for 11 years, contrasting her aspirational desires.
Gatsby's Background
- It is revealed that Gatsby is related to Kaiser Wilhelm, implying a wealthy background that contributes to his fortune.
Catherine's Insights
- Catherine, Myrtle’s sister, is described as about thirty with a pale face and a bob of red hair. She relays that Tom has no affection for Daisy but cannot divorce her due to her Catholic beliefs, surprising Nick since Daisy is not actually Catholic.
Tom and Myrtle's Conflict
- A violent altercation occurs when Tom strikes Myrtle, breaking her nose after she repeatedly mentions Daisy’s name, illustrating Tom's aggressive and domineering nature.
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Description
Explore the key themes and characters from 'The Great Gatsby'. This quiz delves into the symbolism of the Valley of Ashes, the contrasting colors representing hope and despair, and the complex personalities of Myrtle and George Wilson. Test your knowledge on Fitzgerald's critique of society and morality.
