The Great Gatsby Themes and Characters

Questions and Answers

Describe the valley of ashes. What does it symbolize?

City between Manhattan and Long Island; it symbolizes poverty.

Does Tom try to keep his affair with Myrtle a secret? Explain.

No, only when he's on the train with East Eggers. He wants to have the reputation of being a manly man.

Describe Myrtle and her husband, and what happens during the course of the evening when Nick goes with Tom to visit Myrtle.

They meet Myrtle on the train. She has never cheated in one year with Josh and locks eyes with Josh. She is kept in poverty and keeps bringing up Daisy.

Explain the significance of the puppy episode.

Because she can, Myrtle gets whatever she wants on weekends. She abandoned it after Tom leaves. Signup and view all the answers

What gossip about Gatsby does Nick learn at the party?

Related to the German royalty. Signup and view all the answers

What shows Myrtle's lack of sophistication?

She mixes up appendix and appendicitis and talks about teeth. Signup and view all the answers

How do Gatsby's and Tom's parties compare?

Gatsby's parties are big and grand; Tom's are small, reserved, and intimate. Signup and view all the answers

What does Nick mean when he says he is one of the few who were invited?

A lot of people come to the parties by word of mouth; however, Nick is invited. Signup and view all the answers

What are some rumors about Gatsby at this party?

He killed a man, he is a German spy, and he is an American war veteran and an Oxford man. Signup and view all the answers

What is Nick's comment about the gossip? What did he mean?

Surprised people who are not easily surprised. Signup and view all the answers

Who is 'Owl Eyes' and what surprises him? Explain what he meant by Gatsby not cutting pages.

Owl Eyes is the drunk guy in the library; he is surprised because the books aren't glued together. Signup and view all the answers

What does Nick find most striking about Gatsby?

He isn't the typical fat old guy. Signup and view all the answers

What about Gatsby is suspicious to Nick?

Gatsby is a young handsome guy who doesn't even attend the grand parties he hosts. Signup and view all the answers

What is ironic about Jordan's comment about large parties?

Large parties are more intimate; small parties are not private. Signup and view all the answers

What term of familiarity does Gatsby use when addressing Nick? What might it mean?

Old sport; it suggests camaraderie and a sense of belonging. Signup and view all the answers

What does Nick discover about Jordan later that summer?

Dishonest; she cheats in a golf tournament. Signup and view all the answers

What is the valley of ashes?

Low life; parallels the railroad. Signup and view all the answers

Who is Doctor T.J. Eckleburg?

Eye doctor; looks like his billboard is looking down onto the valley of ashes. Signup and view all the answers

Who is George Wilson?

Pumps gas and repairs cars. Signup and view all the answers

Who is Catherine?

Myrtle's sister; a prostitute. Signup and view all the answers

What effect does dress have on Myrtle when she changes?

Acts more haughty, effective, and rich. Signup and view all the answers

What is Catherine's explanation on Tom's affair?

Can't stand who they're married to, but they are Catholic. Signup and view all the answers

What kind of car does Gatsby drive?

Rolls Royce. Signup and view all the answers

How are the guests described?

Drunk and sloppy. Signup and view all the answers

What is Gatsby's interaction with guests like?

Does not drink, does not talk to the guests. Signup and view all the answers

What happens after the party?

Someone crashes and doesn't know about it. Signup and view all the answers

What story does Nick recall about Jordan?

Cheated, dishonest. Signup and view all the answers

What does Nick say about himself?

Honest. Signup and view all the answers

What does Nick think of when he sees Gatsby waving?

Waving goodbye reminds him of when he's at the green light. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Valley of Ashes

Located between Manhattan and Long Island, symbolizes poverty and despair.
Serves as a stark contrast to the wealth seen in other parts of the narrative.

Tom's Affair with Myrtle

Tom does not keep his affair a secret except when with East Eggers.
His desire to uphold a "manly" reputation drives some of his behavior.

Myrtle and Her Husband

Myrtle is depicted as dissatisfied and locked in poverty, reflecting her desperation.
Throughout the evening, she frequently mentions Daisy, revealing her obsession.

Puppy Episode Significance

The episode highlights Myrtle’s ability to indulge her desires, as she buys a puppy on a whim.
Post Tom's departure, she quickly abandons the puppy, symbolizing her transient affections.

Gossip About Gatsby

Rumors suggest Gatsby's connections to German royalty, enhancing his mysterious persona.

Myrtle's Lack of Sophistication

Myrtle’s verbal mix-ups, such as confusing "appendix" with "appendicitis," showcase her social status.
Discusses superficial topics like dental aesthetics, further illustrating her shallowness.

Contrasting Parties

Gatsby’s parties are large, extravagant, and vibrant compared to Tom’s intimate gatherings.
This juxtaposition reflects their respective social standings and values.

Nick's Invitation

Nick's invitation to Gatsby’s party highlights the chaotic nature of the guest lists, revealing his unique status.

Rumors Circulating About Gatsby

Various wild rumors describe Gatsby, including claims of murder, espionage, and Oxford heritage.

Nick’s Perspective on Gossip

He remarks on the contrast between astonishment and the everyday natures of the guests.

"Owl Eyes"

A character who is surprised by the authenticity of Gatsby’s library.
Indicates that the untouched books symbolize Gatsby’s depth beyond appearances.

Striking Features of Gatsby

Noted for his youth and good looks, contradicting typical expectations of party hosts.

Suspicions About Gatsby

Gatsby's absence from his own lavish parties raises questions about his character and motivations.

Irony in Jordan's Comment

Suggests that large parties create intimacy, contrasting societal norms around small gatherings.

Gatsby's Address to Nick

Uses "old sport," indicating familiarity and a façade of camaraderie.

Discovery About Jordan

Nick learns of Jordan's dishonesty, particularly revealing her unethical behavior in a golfing event.

George Wilson

Works as a mechanic, illustrates the struggling working class in contrast to others.

Catherine

Myrtle's sister is identified as a prostitute, indicating Myrtle’s social circle.

Myrtle’s Transformation with Fashion

When dressed up, Myrtle adopts a more pretentious attitude, reflecting her aspirations.

Catherine on Tom's Affair

Explains the complexities of marital discontent, emphasizing cultural and religious constraints.

Gatsby's Car

Drives a luxurious Rolls-Royce, symbolizing wealth and distinction.

Party Atmosphere

Guests exhibit drunkenness and sloppiness, emphasizing the hedonism of the elite.

Gatsby's Behavior at Parties

Maintains sobriety and distance, suggesting a desire for separation from his guests.

Post-Party Incidents

After a party, a crash occurs, yet guests remain oblivious and indifferent.

Nick's Reflection on Jordan

He associates her with dishonesty, cementing his view of the social elite.

Nick's Self-Characterization

Considers himself honest, establishing a contrast with those around him.

Gatsby's Gesture

Gatsby's wave evokes memories of the green light, symbolizing hope and longing.

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Description

Explore the complex themes and character dynamics in 'The Great Gatsby'. From the Valley of Ashes to Myrtle's relationships, this quiz delves into the symbolism and societal critique present in the narrative. Test your understanding of key elements that define this classic novel.