Questions and Answers
What does Tom's lie about Daisy say about him?
Tom is willing to make up a lie to blame Daisy for his unwillingness to divorce and lie to keep Myrtle as a mistress.
What does Myrtle's attitude towards Tom imply about her desires?
Myrtle wants the wealth and standing of being Tom's wife, but is willing to remain his mistress knowing Daisy will not divorce.
What does Myrtle's statement about her husband reveal?
Myrtle has total disrespect for her husband and feels she married below her standing.
Do you think Tom and Myrtle are a good match based on their characters?
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Were you shocked at the way the party ended with Tom's actions?
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Study Notes
Tom's Character and Relationships
- Tom uses lies to justify his behavior, suggesting he blames Daisy for his extramarital affair, indicating his cowardice and self-preservation.
- His manipulation of Myrtle reflects an imbalance of power, showing he is willing to deceive her to maintain his double life.
- Tom's disregard for truth and social conventions highlights his selfish nature, underscoring his moral decay.
Myrtle's Aspirations and Disrespect
- Myrtle seeks validation and status through her relationship with Tom, revealing her desire for wealth over genuine affection.
- She disrespects her husband publicly, indicating her disdain for her current life and her belief that she deserves better.
- This disdain also reflects Myrtle's susceptibility to delusion regarding her status as Tom's mistress.
Compatibility of Tom and Myrtle
- Both Tom and Myrtle exhibit selfish traits, making their relationship dysfunctional yet symbiotic; they feed off each other's flaws.
- Their willingness to compromise societal norms for personal gain suggests they are equally matched in their moral lapses.
- Neither shows respect for others' feelings, aligning them in a morally bankrupt partnership.
Tom's Violence and Hypocrisy
- Tom's violent reaction to Myrtle's mention of Daisy serves as a turning point, revealing the extent of his controlling and abusive nature.
- This act of violence starkly contrasts the image of a gentleman, demonstrating his complete disregard for women's rights and basic decency.
- His hypocritical condemnation of Myrtle's husband juxtaposed with his physical assault embodies the duality of his character—a man who is above reproach yet deeply flawed.
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Description
Explore the complex relationship between Tom Buchanan and Myrtle Wilson in 'The Great Gatsby'. This quiz delves into themes of manipulation, selfishness, and the pursuit of status. Assess your understanding of their character traits and the underlying moral implications of their actions.
