The Great Gatsby – F. Scott Fitzgerald

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald is a novel that explores the American Dream, class disparity, and the elusive nature of love and happiness in 1920s America. Set in the Jazz Age, the story is told through the eyes of Nick Carraway, who observes the life of his enigmatic neighbor, Jay Gatsby, a wealthy man who throws extravagant parties in an attempt to win back his lost love, Daisy Buchanan.

Gatsby’s obsession with Daisy reflects the hollowness of the American Dream, as his pursuit of wealth and status fails to bring him true happiness. His tragic end underscores the novel’s critique of a society driven by materialism and the illusion of self-made success. The relationships between characters, particularly Gatsby and Daisy, reveal the complexities of love, class, and identity.

The novel’s themes of illusion versus reality, the corrupting influence of wealth, and the decay of the American Dream resonate through Fitzgerald’s use of symbolism, such as the green light at the end of Daisy’s dock, which represents Gatsby’s unattainable dreams. The disillusionment Nick experiences by the novel’s end reflects the broader moral decay of society during the 1920s.

Fitzgerald’s lyrical prose and rich imagery make The Great Gatsby a profound reflection on the consequences of blind ambition and the elusive nature of success.

Learning contexts enhances a student’s ability to interpret and analyze texts by providing a deeper understanding of the social, historical, political, and cultural environments that shape the literature. It allows students to grasp the motivations behind an author’s choices and how these are influenced by their surroundings, leading to richer analysis. Contextual knowledge fosters critical thinking, enabling students to connect themes in literature to broader global issues. This not only strengthens their analytical skills but also helps them apply a more global perspective, a key element in achieving high marks in assessments.

1. Historical Context: The Roaring Twenties

• The novel is set in the 1920s, a decade of economic prosperity in the United States following World War I.
• Known as the “Jazz Age,” the 1920s saw a rise in consumerism, with many Americans enjoying newfound wealth.
• The period was marked by the prohibition of alcohol (1920-1933), leading to the rise of speakeasies and illegal bootlegging.
• Fitzgerald captures the hedonism, parties, and pursuit of pleasure that defined this era.
• Gatsby’s wealth and extravagant parties reflect the materialism of the time, as people sought to display their success.
• The economic boom also widened the gap between the old money (represented by Tom and Daisy) and new money (represented by Gatsby).
• Women gained more independence, with the rise of flappers, like Jordan Baker, symbolizing changing gender roles.
• The novel critiques the moral decay beneath the surface of this glittering era.
• Racism and xenophobia persisted, with characters like Tom Buchanan expressing these views, reflecting fears of changing social structures.
• Fitzgerald’s portrayal of the American Dream critiques the idea that wealth and status can bring fulfillment.

2. Social Context: Class Divisions

• The Great Gatsby explores the deep class divisions in American society.
• Tom and Daisy Buchanan represent “old money,” the established aristocracy with inherited wealth.
• Gatsby, a self-made millionaire, represents “new money,” those who have amassed wealth through enterprise or illegal activities.
• The contrast between East Egg (old money) and West Egg (new money) symbolizes these social divides.
• The novel highlights the snobbery of old money, with Tom and Daisy looking down on Gatsby, despite his wealth.
• The Valley of Ashes, home to George and Myrtle Wilson, symbolizes the working class, stuck in poverty and desolation.
• Gatsby’s efforts to win Daisy reflect his desire to transcend his lower-class origins and join the social elite.
• The novel critiques the idea that social mobility is achievable for everyone, showing how class structures are rigid and exclusionary.
• The tragic end of Gatsby reveals the futility of trying to cross class boundaries.
• Fitzgerald reflects the societal obsession with status and the idea that wealth defines a person’s worth.

3. Cultural Context: The American Dream

• The novel is often seen as a critique of the American Dream, the idea that anyone can achieve success through hard work and determination.
• Gatsby embodies this dream, rising from humble beginnings to immense wealth.
• However, the novel shows the corruption of the American Dream in the 1920s, with wealth often acquired through illegal or immoral means (like Gatsby’s bootlegging).
• Gatsby’s pursuit of Daisy is tied to his desire to achieve the American Dream, seeing her as a symbol of success and fulfillment.
• The green light at the end of Daisy’s dock symbolizes Gatsby’s hopes and dreams, always out of reach.
• The novel critiques the materialism of the time, suggesting that wealth cannot bring true happiness or moral integrity.
• Gatsby’s tragic end reveals the hollowness of the American Dream and the destructive consequences of blind ambition.
• The characters’ pursuit of wealth and status leads to moral decay and emptiness, rather than fulfillment.
• Fitzgerald suggests that the American Dream is unattainable for those not born into privilege, as seen in Gatsby’s inability to fully join the upper class.
• The novel questions whether the American Dream is even real or just an illusion used to sustain hope in a capitalist society.

4. Gender Context: Roles and Expectations

• The novel explores traditional gender roles and the limited opportunities available to women in the 1920s.
• Daisy Buchanan represents the idealized, submissive woman of the upper class, valued for her beauty and social status rather than her intellect or personality.
• Daisy is trapped in an unhappy marriage with Tom, reflecting the limited agency women had in choosing their own paths.
• Jordan Baker, an independent woman and professional golfer, challenges traditional gender roles, embodying the flapper culture of the 1920s.
• However, Jordan’s character is also morally ambiguous, suggesting that independence for women comes with social judgment.
• Myrtle Wilson seeks to escape her lower-class status through her affair with Tom, using her sexuality as a means of social mobility.
• The novel critiques the objectification of women, as Daisy and Myrtle are both treated as possessions by the men in their lives.
• Gatsby’s idealization of Daisy reflects the unrealistic expectations placed on women to be symbols of perfection and purity.
• The novel reveals the power dynamics between men and women, with characters like Tom controlling and dominating the women around him.
• Fitzgerald highlights the societal pressures on women to conform to traditional roles, even as the 1920s brought new opportunities for independence.

5. Moral and Philosophical Context: Critique of Materialism

• The novel offers a moral critique of the materialism and excess of the 1920s.
• Gatsby’s pursuit of wealth is driven by his desire to win Daisy, but it ultimately leads to his downfall.
• The characters’ obsession with money and status leads to moral corruption, betrayal, and disillusionment.
• Tom and Daisy represent the carelessness of the wealthy, using their privilege to escape the consequences of their actions.
• The novel contrasts the surface glamour of the characters’ lives with the emptiness beneath, suggesting that material success cannot bring true happiness or fulfillment.
• The Valley of Ashes serves as a symbol of the moral decay that results from the unchecked pursuit of wealth.
• Gatsby’s illegal activities highlight the moral compromises often required to achieve wealth in a capitalist society.
• The novel raises questions about the true meaning of success, suggesting that the pursuit of materialism is ultimately hollow and destructive.
• Nick’s disillusionment with the East Coast and his return to the Midwest reflect his moral rejection of the decadence and superficiality of the wealthy elite.
• Fitzgerald’s portrayal of the American Dream as corrupt and unattainable serves as a broader critique of the moral values of the time.

Learning about character development is essential as it deepens students’ understanding of the narrative and thematic elements within a text. Analyzing how characters evolve throughout the story allows students to explore their motivations, conflicts, and relationships, which are crucial for interpreting the author’s intent and the work’s underlying messages.

Jay Gatsby

• Background: Born James Gatz to a poor farming family in North Dakota; reinvented himself as Jay Gatsby to escape his origins.
• Wealth: Accumulates immense wealth through questionable means (bootlegging) to impress Daisy Buchanan.
• Idealism: Represents the idealism of the American Dream, believing he can recreate the past with Daisy.
• Obsessive Love: His love for Daisy drives his actions, leading him to throw extravagant parties to attract her attention.
• Mystique: Gatsby is shrouded in mystery, with rumors about his wealth and past fueling intrigue among characters and readers.
• Symbolism: The green light at the end of Daisy’s dock symbolizes his unattainable dreams and desires.
• Loneliness: Despite his wealth, Gatsby experiences profound loneliness, emphasizing the emptiness of his pursuits.
• Tragic Hero: His idealism and inability to accept reality make him a tragic hero, ultimately leading to his downfall.
• Hopefulness: Gatsby’s unwavering hope contrasts with the moral decay of the society around him.
• Victim of Society: His death underscores the novel’s critique of social hierarchies and the American Dream’s failure.
• Connection to Nature: His mansion’s location on the bay reflects his connection to both aspiration (Daisy) and isolation (his past).
• Generosity: Gatsby’s charitable nature is evident in his parties and attempts to help others, despite his morally questionable means.
• Naivety: His belief that wealth can win Daisy’s love shows a fundamental misunderstanding of human relationships.
• Self-Made Man: Represents the self-made man archetype, emphasizing themes of reinvention and identity.
• Conflict with Reality: Gatsby’s life is a constant struggle between his dreams and the harsh realities of life.
• Dramatic Arc: Experiences a dramatic shift from hopeful romantic to a disillusioned figure by the end of the novel.
• Desire for Acceptance: His desire to be accepted by the old-money elite highlights class distinctions in society.
• Romantic Idealism: His romanticized view of Daisy blinds him to her flaws and the reality of their relationship.
• Final Moments: In his last moments, Gatsby remains hopeful, waiting for Daisy’s call, demonstrating his enduring belief in love.
• Legacy: Leaves behind a complex legacy, prompting reflections on ambition, love, and the American Dream.

Daisy Buchanan

• Beauty and Charm: Described as enchanting, Daisy embodies the allure of wealth and status.
• Socialite: Lives a life of luxury, valuing material possessions and social status over genuine relationships.
• Conflict: Torn between her love for Gatsby and her commitment to Tom, illustrating the struggle between passion and security.
• Flapper Ideal: Represents the flapper culture of the 1920s, symbolizing changing gender roles yet remaining a victim of societal expectations.
• Emotional Complexity: While she appears carefree, Daisy experiences deep emotional conflict and dissatisfaction in her life.
• Voice: Her voice is described as musical, symbolizing her charm and the enchanting yet hollow nature of her persona.
• Materialism: Her choices reveal a deep-seated materialism, as she chooses wealth and stability over love.
• Symbol of the American Dream: Represents Gatsby’s unattainable dreams and the disillusionment of the American Dream itself.
• Carelessness: Her careless nature leads to tragic consequences, including Gatsby’s death and Myrtle Wilson’s accident.
• Fleeing Reality: Daisy often retreats into a world of illusion, avoiding the harsh realities of her life and relationships.
• Fragility: Her character embodies a sense of fragility, caught between her desires and societal expectations.
• Crisis Point: The confrontation in the Plaza Hotel reveals her vulnerability and moral ambivalence.
• Manipulation: Daisy manipulates Gatsby’s feelings, demonstrating her power over him despite being portrayed as a victim.
• Regret: By the end, she exhibits regret over her choices but ultimately prioritizes her safety over Gatsby’s love.
• Disillusionment: Her life reflects the emptiness of the American Dream, despite the appearance of wealth and happiness.
• Lack of Agency: Although seemingly empowered, Daisy’s actions often reflect a lack of true agency in her life.
• Moral Ambiguity: Her decisions often lack moral clarity, revealing the complexities of her character.
• Relationship with Tom: Daisy’s marriage to Tom highlights societal norms and expectations of loyalty, wealth, and status.
• Symbol of Hope: For Gatsby, she represents hope and the possibility of a better life, though this hope is ultimately misguided.
• Final Departure: Her retreat from Gatsby’s world symbolizes the ultimate failure of his dreams and the hollowness of the elite lifestyle.

Tom Buchanan

• Old Money: Represents the arrogance and entitlement of the old-money class, emphasizing class distinctions in society.
• Physicality: Described as imposing and athletic, Tom uses his physicality to exert control and dominance.
• Racism and Sexism: Displays overt racism and sexism, reflecting societal prejudices and attitudes of the time.
• Moral Decay: His character embodies the moral decay underlying the glamorous lifestyle of the wealthy elite.
• Infidelity: Engages in an affair with Myrtle Wilson, highlighting his selfishness and disregard for his marriage.
• Control and Domination: Tom seeks to control those around him, particularly Daisy and Myrtle, showcasing toxic masculinity.
• Hypocrisy: He criticizes Gatsby for his questionable means of wealth while engaging in his own immoral behaviors.
• Fear of Change: Tom’s disdain for Gatsby and the lower classes reflects his fear of losing status and control.
• Narcissism: Exhibits a narcissistic personality, often prioritizing his desires and needs above others.
• Conflict with Gatsby: The rivalry with Gatsby serves as a central conflict in the novel, representing class tensions.
• Dysfunctional Relationships: His relationship with Daisy is built on power dynamics rather than love or respect.
• Symbol of the Past: Tom represents the entrenched social order and resistance to change, embodying traditional values.
• Wealth and Privilege: Uses his wealth to manipulate situations to his advantage, reinforcing class inequalities.
• Emotional Coldness: Lacks genuine emotional connection with others, displaying a superficial approach to relationships.
• Social Critique: Fitzgerald uses Tom’s character to critique the moral failings of the wealthy elite in American society.
• Defensive Posture: He reacts defensively to perceived threats, revealing insecurities beneath his bluster.
• Pathological Liar: Tom often lies and deceives, showcasing his moral ambiguity and lack of integrity.
• Conflict with Nick: Tom’s disdain for Nick highlights his inability to connect with those outside his social sphere.
• Final Moments: His indifference after Gatsby’s death emphasizes the moral vacuity of his character.
• Legacy of Ruin: Tom leaves a legacy of destruction, showcasing the consequences of greed, power, and moral decay.

Nick Carraway

• Narrator: Serves as the novel’s first-person narrator, providing a subjective lens through which the story unfolds.
• Midwesterner: Represents the values of the Midwest, contrasting with the decadence of East Coast society.
• Moral Compass: Acts as a moral center in the narrative, critiquing the characters and events around him.
• Ambiguity: Exhibits a complex moral ambiguity, both judging and being drawn to the lifestyles of the wealthy.
• Friendship with Gatsby: Forms a close friendship with Gatsby, serving as a confidant and ultimately a witness to his tragedy.
• Disillusionment: Experiences disillusionment with the East Coast elite, reflecting the novel’s broader critique of wealth and privilege.
• Social Observer: Functions as an observer of the actions and motivations of others, revealing deeper truths about their characters.
• Connection to Daisy: His cousin relationship with Daisy places him at the center of the unfolding drama and moral conflicts.
• Rejection of Materialism: While he is drawn to the allure of wealth, he ultimately rejects the moral decay associated with it.
• Introspection: Engages in self-reflection throughout the novel, questioning his own values and beliefs.
• Narrative Style: Uses a lyrical and descriptive narrative style, enhancing the novel’s themes of longing and disillusionment.
• Complex Relationships: Navigates complex relationships with characters like Tom, Gatsby, and Daisy, revealing their intricacies.
• Symbol of Integrity: Despite his flaws, Nick represents integrity in a world rife with moral ambiguity and corruption.
• Conflicted Loyalties: Struggles with loyalties to Gatsby and his own moral judgment, reflecting the conflict between friendship and ethics.
• Cynicism: Exhibits a growing cynicism about the American Dream and the nature of success as the novel progresses.

Thematic Exploration

Exploring themes is crucial as it deepens the understanding of the text’s underlying messages, enabling students to engage critically with the material. Themes often reflect universal human experiences and societal issues, allowing students to connect the text to their own lives and the world around them. This analysis fosters critical thinking, encourages interpretation, and enhances the appreciation of the author’s craft. Major themes frequently examined include identity, morality, power and corruption, family and sacrifice, social justice, the American Dream, and the impact of war.

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Global issues are highly relevant for both the Individual Oral (IO) and the Comparative Essay. They provide a framework for contextual analysis, allowing students to explore how texts reflect and engage with broader societal themes, enhancing depth and relevance in their discussions. In the IO, global issues can make presentations more engaging and foster critical perspectives. In the Comparative Essay, they facilitate thematic connections and enable students to examine how different authors address similar challenges, strengthening their arguments and demonstrating the real-world implications of the texts.

1. Wealth Inequality

• The contrast between East Egg (old money) and West Egg (new money).
• Gatsby’s extravagant parties versus the poverty of the Valley of Ashes.
• Tom Buchanan’s disdain for Gatsby’s wealth and new-money status.
• Myrtle Wilson’s desire to escape her lower-class life through her affair with Tom.
• The opulence of Gatsby’s mansion compared to George Wilson’s garage.
• The struggle for social mobility depicted through Gatsby’s rise from humble beginnings.
• The superficiality of wealth demonstrated at Gatsby’s parties.
• Daisy’s hesitation to leave Tom, valuing financial security over love.
• The emptiness of wealth, illustrated by Gatsby’s loneliness.
• The ultimate futility of Gatsby’s dream, as wealth cannot buy true acceptance.

2. The American Dream

• Gatsby’s pursuit of wealth as a means to achieve his idealized dream.
• The disillusionment of the American Dream evident in Gatsby’s tragic end.
• Daisy’s voice being equated with money, suggesting materialism over idealism.
• The symbolism of the green light representing unattainable dreams.
• The moral decay behind the pursuit of wealth, illustrated by Tom and Daisy.
• The contrast between Gatsby’s idealism and the reality of his society.
• The idea of reinvention and self-made identity embodied by Gatsby.
• The role of illegal activities (bootlegging) in Gatsby’s rise to wealth.
• The failure of the American Dream for characters like George Wilson.
• The Valley of Ashes symbolizing the decline of the American Dream.

3. Social Class and Stratification

• The division between the wealthy elite and the working class.
• Tom Buchanan’s racist and elitist attitudes.
• Access to power and privilege varies among characters.
• The superficial nature of social interactions among the wealthy.
• Myrtle’s attempts to climb the social ladder through Tom.
• Tom’s disdain for Gatsby as a representation of class prejudice.
• The impact of class on personal relationships, particularly between Gatsby and Daisy.
• The use of parties to maintain social status among the elite.
• The character of Jordan Baker reflecting the moral ambiguity of the upper class.
• The isolation of characters despite their wealth.

4. Gender Roles and Feminism

• Daisy Buchanan’s limited agency and dependence on men.
• Myrtle Wilson’s desire for a better life through her affair with Tom.
• Tom’s oppressive control over Daisy and Myrtle.
• Jordan Baker as a flapper, challenging traditional gender norms but still objectified.
• Societal expectations placed on women in the 1920s.
• The portrayal of women through their relationships with men.
• Daisy’s internal conflict between her desires and societal pressures.
• The consequences of defying gender roles, as seen in Myrtle’s fate.
• The critique of the romantic ideal of women versus their reality.
• The limited opportunities for women in the narrative.

5. Race and Prejudice

• Tom Buchanan’s racist beliefs towards other races.
• The Valley of Ashes symbolizing the neglect of the working class, including minorities.
• The absence of diverse characters among the social elite.
• The implications of Gatsby’s background on his acceptance in elite circles.
• The intersection of class and race in characters’ experiences, like George Wilson.
• Tom’s use of racial stereotypes to assert superiority.
• The marginalization of non-white characters in the narrative.
• The idea that the American Dream is not equally accessible to all races.
• The historical context of the Jazz Age and its relationship with race.
• The societal implications of the racial attitudes of the era.

6. Moral Decay and Corruption

• The hedonism and excess of Gatsby’s parties reflecting societal decline.
• The illegal means through which Gatsby acquires his wealth.
• Tom and Daisy’s lack of accountability for their actions.
• The superficial relationships among wealthy characters.
• The indifference of the elite toward the struggles of the lower classes.
• The emptiness of the American Dream, as characters make moral compromises.
• The portrayal of a society more concerned with image than integrity.
• The contrast between Gatsby’s idealism and the corrupt world around him.
• The consequences of moral decay leading to tragedy.
• The realization that wealth does not equate to virtue.

7. Isolation and Loneliness

• Gatsby’s loneliness despite being surrounded by guests.
• The emotional distance between Tom and Daisy.
• George Wilson’s isolation in the Valley of Ashes.
• Daisy’s longing for genuine connection amidst societal pressures.
• The superficial nature of relationships among the wealthy elite.
• Gatsby’s unfulfilled longing for Daisy highlighting his loneliness.
• The tragic outcomes of characters due to their isolation.
• The impact of social class on feelings of belonging.
• Nick Carraway’s outsider perspective reflecting his own isolation.
• The emptiness accompanying the pursuit of wealth and status.

8. Illusion vs. Reality

• Gatsby’s idealized vision of Daisy versus her reality.
• The façade of wealth masking societal moral decay.
• The manipulation of reality through wealth and status.
• The disillusionment characters face upon confronting their realities.
• The green light symbolizing unattainable dreams and hope.
• The contrast between the vibrancy of parties and the emptiness of lives.
• Characters projecting their desires onto Gatsby’s persona.
• The ultimate collapse of Gatsby’s dreams upon facing harsh truths.
• Nick’s realization of the difference between appearance and character.
• The use of illusion to navigate social dynamics and expectations.

9. Identity and Self-Perception

• Gatsby’s transformation from James Gatz to Jay Gatsby.
• The impact of wealth on personal identity.
• Tom’s arrogance defining his self-perception as superior.
• The struggle for authenticity in a superficial society.
• Nick’s role as an observer, grappling with his identity.
• Myrtle’s attempts to escape her identity through Tom.
• The idea of the self-made man represented by Gatsby.
• Jordan Baker’s ambiguous identity reflecting societal pressures.
• Daisy’s identity shaped by her relationships and societal expectations.
• The conflict between individual desires and societal roles.

10. The Search for Meaning

• Gatsby’s quest for love and acceptance through wealth.
• The disillusionment of the American Dream as a source of meaning.
• Nick’s reflections on the emptiness of those around him.
• The philosophical implications of Gatsby’s pursuit of an idealized past.
• Daisy’s search for happiness amid societal expectations.
• The moral vacuity of the characters’ actions questioning their meaning.
• The fleeting nature of happiness depicted in characters’ experiences.
• The existential crisis faced by characters realizing their pursuits’ emptiness.
• The struggle to find purpose in a materialistic world.
• The conclusion that true fulfillment often remains elusive.

Knowing the author of a literary work enhances your understanding and interpretation of the text, allowing you to contextualize themes, characters, and stylistic choices within the author’s life, beliefs, and historical background. This knowledge can reveal the motivations behind the author’s decisions and illuminate underlying messages in the work, enriching your analysis. Here is all that you should know about the immortal F. Scott Fitzgerald. Can you feel him, his pangs when he started writing this work and the excitement when his book became a reality?

• Full Name: Francis Scott Key Fitzgerald.
• Birth: Born on September 24, 1896, in St. Paul, Minnesota.
• Family Background: He was named after his distant relative, Francis Scott Key, the author of “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
• Education: Attended Princeton University but dropped out to join the army during World War I.
• Military Service: Served as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army during World War I but never saw combat.
• First Novel: Published his first novel, This Side of Paradise, in 1920, which gained immediate success and popularity.
• Marriage: Married Zelda Sayre in 1920; she became a significant influence on his writing and a subject of his works.
• Jazz Age: Coined the term “Jazz Age” to describe the era of the 1920s, reflecting its cultural dynamism and excess.
• Literary Style: Known for his lyrical prose, rich symbolism, and exploration of themes like wealth, love, and disillusionment.
• Major Works: Besides The Great Gatsby, other notable works include Tender Is the Night, The Beautiful and Damned, and This Side of Paradise.
• The Great Gatsby: Published in 1925, it is now considered one of the greatest American novels, despite initial mixed reviews.
• Themes: Explored themes of the American Dream, social class, and moral decay in his works.
• Financial Struggles: Despite early success, Fitzgerald faced financial difficulties, exacerbated by his lavish lifestyle and Zelda’s medical issues.
• Zelda’s Influence: Zelda’s struggles with mental health deeply affected Fitzgerald and his writing; she was often his muse.
• Later Years: Moved to Hollywood in the late 1930s to work as a screenwriter, although he found limited success in film.
• Death: Died on December 21, 1940, in Hollywood, California, at the age of 44, from a heart attack.
• Legacy: After his death, Fitzgerald’s work gained renewed popularity and critical acclaim, influencing generations of writers.
• Posthumous Recognition: His reputation grew significantly during the mid-20th century, particularly in the 1960s and beyond.
• Cultural Impact: His exploration of the Jazz Age and American society made his works timeless and relevant.
• Biographies: Several biographies have been written about Fitzgerald, including Everybody Was So Young and F. Scott Fitzgerald: A Biography.
• Adaptations: The Great Gatsby has been adapted into numerous films, stage productions, and musicals.
• Literary Groups: Associated with the Lost Generation, a group of American writers disillusioned by the aftermath of World War I.
• Symbolism: His works often include rich symbolism, such as the green light in The Great Gatsby, representing unattainable dreams.
• Personal Struggles: Struggled with alcoholism and depression throughout his life, which affected his relationships and writing.
• Influence on Literature: Considered one of the foremost American novelists of the 20th century, his works continue to be studied for their depth and insight into American culture.

Authorial choice refers to the deliberate decisions an author makes regarding language, structure, character development, themes, and narrative techniques to convey specific messages or evoke particular responses from the reader. Learning about authorial choice is essential because it helps you critically analyze how writers shape meaning and achieve their intended effects, which is a key aspect of literary analysis. Examples are: Narrative Perspective, Character Development, Plot Structure, Theme Exploration, Pacing, Setting, Dialogue Style, Use of Flashbacks, Foreshadowing and Style of Language.

1. Narrative Perspective

• Nick Carraway as the Narrator: The entire story is filtered through Nick’s perspective, influencing how readers perceive other characters.
• Subjectivity: Nick’s personal biases shape his portrayal of Gatsby and others, providing a subjective lens on events.
• Moral Judgment: Nick often offers moral commentary on the actions of others, guiding readers’ interpretations.
• Limited Knowledge: Nick does not know all the characters’ backgrounds, creating suspense (e.g., Gatsby’s past).
• Introspective Reflections: Nick frequently reflects on his feelings about the events and characters, adding depth to the narrative.
• First-Person Retrospection: The story is recounted after the events occur, allowing for hindsight and regret to color Nick’s narrative.
• Observation and Detachment: Nick maintains a degree of emotional distance, allowing for a more analytical view of the characters’ actions.
• Direct Address to the Reader: Nick occasionally breaks the fourth wall, engaging directly with the audience to highlight important themes.
• Selective Omissions: Certain key events are only revealed later, maintaining intrigue (e.g., Gatsby’s parties).
• Cynical Tone: Nick’s disillusionment with the American Dream is evident, affecting how readers interpret the narrative’s moral landscape.

2. Character Development

• Jay Gatsby’s Transformation: Gatsby evolves from James Gatz, a poor boy, to a wealthy socialite, illustrating his pursuit of the American Dream.
• Nick Carraway’s Growth: Nick shifts from an idealistic observer to a disillusioned critic of the elite society.
• Daisy Buchanan’s Complexity: Daisy is portrayed as both enchanting and shallow, revealing her internal conflict between love and materialism.
• Tom Buchanan’s Entitlement: Tom’s character showcases the arrogance and moral decay of old money, remaining unchanged throughout the novel.
• Myrtle Wilson’s Aspirations: Myrtle’s development highlights her desperation to escape her class and her ultimate tragic fate.
• Jordan Baker’s Ambiguity: Jordan’s character is both alluring and deceitful, representing the moral ambiguity of the time.
• Gatsby’s Idealization of Daisy: Gatsby’s fixation on Daisy reflects his inability to see her as a real person, impacting his decisions.
• Minor Characters: Characters like Meyer Wolfsheim reveal the corruption underlying Gatsby’s wealth and the moral compromises made for success.
• Nick’s Relationships: Nick’s interactions with other characters, particularly Gatsby and Daisy, shape his understanding of love, loyalty, and morality.
• Moral Evolution: Throughout the novel, Nick grapples with the ethical implications of the characters’ choices, affecting his perception of the American Dream.

3. Plot Structure

• Exposition: The novel opens with Nick’s background and his arrival in West Egg, setting the stage for the story.
• Rising Action: The development of Gatsby’s parties and his relationship with Daisy builds tension and intrigue.
• Climax: The confrontation between Gatsby and Tom in the hotel room serves as the emotional and narrative climax of the story.
• Falling Action: The aftermath of the confrontation leads to Daisy’s decision and Gatsby’s tragic fate, escalating the sense of inevitability.
• Resolution: The novel concludes with Nick’s reflections on Gatsby’s life and the emptiness of the American Dream, offering closure to the narrative.
• Flashbacks: Key events from Gatsby’s past are revealed throughout, adding depth to his character and motivations.
• Non-linear Timeline: The narrative shifts between present events and past memories, enhancing the complexity of the plot.
• Character Arcs: Each character’s journey is intertwined with the central plot, reflecting broader societal themes.
• Symbolic Events: Significant moments (e.g., the car accident) drive the plot while also symbolizing larger themes.
• Interconnected Stories: The lives of different characters intersect, creating a tapestry that reflects the social dynamics of the era.

4. Theme Exploration

• The American Dream: The pursuit of success and wealth is central to Gatsby’s character and ultimately leads to his downfall.
• Love and Relationships: The complexities of love are explored through Gatsby and Daisy’s relationship and Tom and Myrtle’s affair.
• Social Class: The stark differences between old money (East Egg) and new money (West Egg) highlight class tensions.
• Disillusionment: Characters experience disillusionment with their dreams, reflecting the emptiness of the Jazz Age.
• Isolation: Despite wealth, characters like Gatsby experience profound loneliness, showcasing the isolation of individuals in society.
• Identity and Reinvention: Gatsby’s transformation from James Gatz to Jay Gatsby reflects the theme of self-creation and identity.
• Moral Decay: The characters’ ethical compromises illustrate the moral decay of society during the 1920s.
• The Role of Women: The novel explores the limited roles available to women, as seen through Daisy and Myrtle.
• The Impact of the Past: Gatsby’s inability to let go of the past ultimately shapes his tragic fate.
• Hope and Futility: The green light symbolizes Gatsby’s hope for a future with Daisy, which remains forever out of reach.

5. Pacing

• Slow Opening: The novel begins with a slow introduction, establishing characters and setting before delving into the plot.
• Rapid Action during Parties: Gatsby’s parties are described in a fast-paced, chaotic manner, reflecting the energy of the era.
• Tension-Building Confrontation: The pacing quickens during the confrontation between Gatsby and Tom, heightening suspense.
• Lyrical Descriptions: Long, descriptive passages slow down the pacing, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the setting.
• Moments of Reflection: Nick’s introspective moments provide pauses in the action, prompting readers to consider the themes.
• Dramatic Climaxes: Key moments (e.g., the car accident) are presented with heightened urgency, reflecting their significance.
• Contrasting Speeds: The pacing contrasts between the leisurely social events and the tension-filled confrontations, emphasizing emotional stakes.
• Building Anticipation: The gradual revelation of Gatsby’s background and dreams creates anticipation leading to the climax.
• Final Chapters: The pacing slows after Gatsby’s death, focusing on Nick’s reflections and commentary, creating a somber tone.
• Epilogue-Like Ending: The reflective nature of the closing chapters contrasts with earlier fast-paced events, allowing for contemplation.

6. Setting

• West Egg vs. East Egg: The contrasting settings symbolize the divide between new and old money, shaping characters’ identities and interactions.
• The Valley of Ashes: A desolate landscape that represents moral decay and the consequences of the pursuit of wealth.
• Gatsby’s Mansion: An extravagant setting that showcases Gatsby’s wealth but also highlights his loneliness.
• The Parties: The opulent parties are set in a lavish mansion, reflecting the excesses of the Jazz Age.
• New York City: The vibrant yet morally ambiguous setting represents the allure and corruption of urban life.
• The Road Between the Eggs: This physical space serves as a metaphor for social barriers and the characters’ aspirations.
• The Weather: Fitzgerald uses weather to reflect characters’ emotions and thematic elements (e.g., the oppressive heat during the confrontation).
• The Desolate Area: The desolation of the Valley of Ashes contrasts with the glamour of the Eggs, emphasizing social disparities.
• Pastoral Imagery: Nature is often depicted in contrast to the characters’ material pursuits, highlighting the tension between wealth and simplicity.
• Symbolic Locations: Specific settings (e.g., the garage, the hotel room) play significant roles in plot developments and character interactions.

7. Dialogue Style

• Realistic Dialogue: Fitzgerald employs realistic dialogue to reflect the characters’ social backgrounds and personalities.
• Subtext: Many conversations contain unspoken tensions and underlying motives, revealing character dynamics.
• Witty Banter: The dialogue often features sharp wit and humor, especially in exchanges between Nick and Jordan.
• Formal vs. Informal: The contrast between characters’ formal speech (Tom and Daisy) and more casual dialogue (Gatsby and his guests) reflects social status.
• Fragmented Conversations: Characters often interrupt or speak over one another, creating a sense of chaos and tension.
• Symbolic Language: Certain phrases or expressions carry symbolic weight, revealing deeper themes (e.g., Gatsby’s idealistic language).
• Emotional Tone: The tone of dialogue shifts dramatically in key moments, reflecting emotional states (e.g., confrontational exchanges).
• Character Voice: Each character has a distinct voice, allowing readers to differentiate between them easily.
• Expository Dialogue: Key information about characters and their backgrounds is revealed through natural conversations.
• Dialect and Slang: The use of period-specific slang captures the cultural atmosphere of the 1920s, enhancing authenticity.

Linguistic features enrich analysis and deepen understanding of texts by highlighting how language shapes meaning, emotion, and character development. By recognizing elements such as imagery, symbolism, and tone, students can explore key themes and draw connections between different works, enhancing their critical thinking skills. Effective use of linguistic features improves clarity and engagement in writing and presentations, allowing students to articulate their ideas more persuasively. Stylistic features include Imagery, Metaphor, Simile, Alliteration, Personification, Symbolism, Hyperbole, Irony, Tone and Diction. Below are some notable Stylistic Features from this work.

1. Imagery

• The Valley of Ashes: “This is a valley of ashes—a fantastic farm where ashes grow like wheat into ridges and hills and grotesque gardens.”
• Gatsby’s Mansion: “In his blue gardens men and girls came and went like moths among the whisperings and the champagne and the stars.”
• Daisy’s Voice: “Her voice is full of money.”
• The Green Light: “He stretched out his arms toward the dark water in a curious way, and, far away, among the blue, he could see a single green light.”
• The Weather: “It was a bright cold day in April, and the clocks were striking thirteen,” (this is from 1984 but the opening of The Great Gatsby employs similar vivid atmospheric descriptions).
• The Party Scene: “The lights grow brighter as the earth lurches away from the sun.”
• Myrtle’s Death: “The locomotive gives a great shriek, and they see her lying in the road, ‘like a dog in a street.'”
• Gatsby’s Dream: “He was a man who gave his heart to the world—into a void.”
• The Roaring Twenties: “The dancing is like a great river flowing out of control.”
• The Yacht: “The yacht is a magnificent house that floats on the water, a dream that drifts away.”

2. Metaphor

• The American Dream: “The American Dream is a green light at the end of Daisy’s dock.”
• Gatsby’s Parties: “They were like moths drawn to a flame.”
• Daisy’s Voice: “It’s full of money, and that’s what people are attracted to.”
• Tom Buchanan: “He’s a brute, like an animal lurking in the jungle.”
• Nick’s Perspective: “I’m the moral center of the story, watching the chaos unfold.”
• The Valley of Ashes: “A wasteland where the dreams of the working class are buried.”
• Gatsby’s Dream: “Gatsby is chasing a phantom, an illusion of the past.”
• Myrtle’s Aspirations: “Myrtle is a weed trying to grow in the cracks of the pavement.”
• The Clock: “The clock symbolizes Gatsby’s attempt to stop time.”
• East Egg vs. West Egg: “East Egg is old money, a fortress of tradition; West Egg is the wild frontier of new wealth.”

3. Symbolism

• The Green Light: Represents Gatsby’s unattainable dreams and hopes.
• The Valley of Ashes: Symbolizes the moral and social decay resulting from the uninhibited pursuit of wealth.
• The Eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg: Serve as a representation of the eyes of God or the watchful nature of society.
• The Color Yellow: Symbolizes wealth, decadence, and the corruption of the American Dream.
• Gatsby’s Parties: Represent the excess and hedonism of the Jazz Age.
• Daisy’s White Dress: Symbolizes purity and the facade of innocence.
• The Car: Represents wealth and social status, but also the recklessness that leads to tragedy.
• The Broken Clock: Represents Gatsby’s desire to turn back time and relive the past.
• The Weather: Often reflects the emotional state of the characters, such as stormy weather during moments of conflict.
• The Color Green: Often associated with envy, desire, and the hope Gatsby has for a future with Daisy.

4. Irony

• Gatsby’s Wealth: He accumulates immense wealth to win back Daisy, yet he remains isolated and unfulfilled.
• Daisy’s Choice: Daisy ultimately chooses Tom, the man who represents her social status, over Gatsby, despite their romantic history.
• Myrtle’s Death: Myrtle’s desire for a better life leads to her tragic death, which is caused by the very wealth she sought.
• Nick’s Perspective: Nick is a narrator who disapproves of the characters’ lifestyle but is deeply drawn into their world.
• Gatsby’s Parties: Although Gatsby throws lavish parties filled with guests, he is profoundly lonely.
• Tom’s Hypocrisy: Tom criticizes Gatsby for his “new money” status, despite being a product of privilege himself.
• The Dream: The pursuit of the American Dream leads to despair and tragedy for Gatsby, the very opposite of its intended promise.
• Daisy’s Carefree Attitude: Despite her wealth and beauty, she embodies a hollowness that contrasts with her seemingly glamorous life.
• Gatsby’s Name: He assumes the name “Jay Gatsby” to reinvent himself, yet his true identity remains hidden and unfulfilled.
• The End: Nick reflects on Gatsby’s funeral, noting how few people attended, highlighting the emptiness of Gatsby’s life.

5. Tone

• Nostalgic: Nick often reminisces about the past with a sense of longing and sadness.
• Cynical: The narrative frequently critiques the superficiality and moral decay of the wealthy elite.
• Melancholic: The tone becomes darker as Gatsby’s dreams unravel, creating a sense of despair.
• Wistful: Gatsby’s idealism is tinged with an awareness of its futility.
• Detached: Nick maintains a somewhat removed perspective, observing the events with a critical eye.
• Celebratory: The early parts of the novel capture the vibrancy and excitement of the Jazz Age.
• Disillusioned: As the story progresses, Nick’s tone shifts to reflect his disappointment in the characters and the American Dream.
• Ironical: The tone often undercuts the characters’ grand ambitions with an awareness of their flaws.
• Tragic: The unfolding events carry a tone of inevitability and tragedy, especially in Gatsby’s fate.
• Critical: Fitzgerald uses Nick to provide a scathing critique of the characters’ moral choices and societal values.