Podcast
Questions and Answers
Describe the valley of ashes. What does it symbolize?
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.
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.
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.
Explain the significance of the puppy episode.
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What gossip about Gatsby does Nick learn at the party?
What gossip about Gatsby does Nick learn at the party?
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What shows Myrtle's lack of sophistication?
What shows Myrtle's lack of sophistication?
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How do Gatsby's and Tom's parties compare?
How do Gatsby's and Tom's parties compare?
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What does Nick mean when he says he is one of the few who were invited?
What does Nick mean when he says he is one of the few who were invited?
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What are some rumors about Gatsby at this party?
What are some rumors about Gatsby at this party?
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What is Nick's comment about the gossip? What did he mean?
What is Nick's comment about the gossip? What did he mean?
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Who is 'Owl Eyes' and what surprises him? Explain what he meant by Gatsby not cutting pages.
Who is 'Owl Eyes' and what surprises him? Explain what he meant by Gatsby not cutting pages.
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What does Nick find most striking about Gatsby?
What does Nick find most striking about Gatsby?
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What about Gatsby is suspicious to Nick?
What about Gatsby is suspicious to Nick?
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What is ironic about Jordan's comment about large parties?
What is ironic about Jordan's comment about large parties?
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What term of familiarity does Gatsby use when addressing Nick? What might it mean?
What term of familiarity does Gatsby use when addressing Nick? What might it mean?
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What does Nick discover about Jordan later that summer?
What does Nick discover about Jordan later that summer?
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What is the valley of ashes?
What is the valley of ashes?
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Who is Doctor T.J. Eckleburg?
Who is Doctor T.J. Eckleburg?
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Who is George Wilson?
Who is George Wilson?
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Who is Catherine?
Who is Catherine?
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What effect does dress have on Myrtle when she changes?
What effect does dress have on Myrtle when she changes?
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What is Catherine's explanation on Tom's affair?
What is Catherine's explanation on Tom's affair?
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What kind of car does Gatsby drive?
What kind of car does Gatsby drive?
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How are the guests described?
How are the guests described?
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What is Gatsby's interaction with guests like?
What is Gatsby's interaction with guests like?
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What happens after the party?
What happens after the party?
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What story does Nick recall about Jordan?
What story does Nick recall about Jordan?
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What does Nick say about himself?
What does Nick say about himself?
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What does Nick think of when he sees Gatsby waving?
What does Nick think of when he sees Gatsby waving?
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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.
