Opening Question
How has the role of both males and females changed in a marriage from the 1920's to present day?
Core Questions
1) If Tom is so proud of his mistress Myrtle Wilson, then why does he not divorce Daisy and marry her? Why does he lie and tell Myrtle that Daisy doesn't believe in divorce because she is Catholic?
I think Tom isn't really in love with Myrtle, he just likes the fun and flirty stages of a relationship. Tom has always, even a week after his marriage, had affairs with other women. Myrtle is not exception, she's just another toy that Tom can mess with until he gets bored again. He might have lied about Daisy being Catholic so he can use it as an excuse not to get too serious with another lady.
2) Why does Gatsby choose to be mysterious towards his party guest's? He know's that there are rummer's about him killing a man, so why does he not correct them and set the facts straight?
I think he does this because the whole reason for his parties is that he wants to see Daisy, or know someone that knows her. He honestly doesn't care what the other people have to say about him, he would rather focus his time looking for his true love.
Closing Question
If the story took place in a different era, like present day, would people still look at Gatsby with such respect or would their opinions change?
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
Keeli Armitage's Gatsby Questions
Opening Question:
How has materialism changed from the 1920's to now? Have different generations become more or less materialistic and in what ways?
Core Questions:
Why does Tom Buchanan feel it's appropriate to introduce his wife's cousin to his mistress? Though it was an era of extremely liberal women, to what extent were they still objectified?
I think in a sense, this is him showing off. He wants to assert how traditionally masculine (exemplified by his ability to "get" women) he is, in comparison to Nick, who is more reserved and doesn't really actively seek out company very often. I also saw it as his way of "making it up" to Nick for treating Daisy so poorly. He thinks that letting Nick into this secret facet of his life that he doesn't even reveal to his wife will redeem him somehow in Nick's eyes. Tom wants to show Nick that no matter where you are or who you're with, there will always be a certain air of suffering, so Nick shouldn't hold it against him in Daisy's miserable because he doesn't feel it's his fault.
To what extent is Jordan Baker a foil for Daisy's character? How does Nick and Jordan's relationship act a foil to Tom and Daisy's and even Gatsby and Daisy's?
Jordan Baker is very much a foil to Daisy's character. While Daisy is found weeping over shirts (amongst other things), Jordan is described as very straight-faced and straight-foward. She's athletic and younger and hasn't been attached to many men, while Daisy has a child and pines for a man she once loved while married to a man she loathes. Their relationships act as foils to each other because Nick and Jordan have a very healthy one in the beginning. Nick and Jordan met through friends, got to know each other, and then started seeing each other, a typical procession of how people meet and date, while Daisy has always had whirlwind affairs and very unhealthy relationships. Jordan's relationship with Tom is based on pretty concrete personality traits, and it feels like men just want to be with Daisy because it's so goddamned romantic to be with someone with such a mysterious, lilting voice.
Closing Question:
Daisy marries money and forgoes love, Gatsby seeks money to acquire love. To what extent is it true that greed is what connects these characters? Is it greed as concerning money or can greed also manifest in other ways? How have we seen greed change over the years?
Missael's Gatsby Discussion Questions
Opening Question:
What role does the past play in the book? Does it hamper or help Gatsby?
Core Questions
On page 13, Daisy says this about the baby "She told me it was a girl. And I hope she'll be a fool - that's the best thing a girl can be in this world , a beautiful little fool." What does this reveal about Daisy's opinion of woman's role in society?
Well to begin with being the 1920's women didn't really have very many right and were still confined to traditional roles with the household (Housewife) and in this quote Daisy very much reveals herself to hold a rather pessimistic point of view of the world and women's role in general. To really answer the question, one must first find out if Daisy even has a point of view besides of women besides baby producer and that one pretty face that you are married with and occasionally talk with and I think this stems from having married a man like Tom who honestly does not care very much about Daisy preferring to spend his time with his mistress whom has a no strings attached relationship with than the mother of his children. Honestly at this point in history guys just favored beauty over brains ignoring the comments that their wife's make and just staying with them for the physical attraction.
If the fact that Tom has a mistress is publicly known, why does Daisy do nothing to stop it or does it even bother her?
I believe that she knows that he has a mistress but so do the other men and since everyone is doing it she cant really complain without appearing as out of the loop or wrong and it is the fear of being wrong that actually prevents her from complaining about it. I do believe that it bothers her considering in chapter 2, she and Tom appear to have a discussion about but eventually amounts to nothing as in the next chapter, he shamelessly visits his mistress in front of Nick as it turns out such matters while typically not dealt with in public are not a point of shame and as matter a fact are treated as almost a matter of pride to say I have a mistress because in this point in history men are always right and women are not allowed a say.
Closing Question:
If Tom was brought to the modern day world, would he still be considered as someone to be admired like Nick does in the book?
What role does the past play in the book? Does it hamper or help Gatsby?
Core Questions
On page 13, Daisy says this about the baby "She told me it was a girl. And I hope she'll be a fool - that's the best thing a girl can be in this world , a beautiful little fool." What does this reveal about Daisy's opinion of woman's role in society?
Well to begin with being the 1920's women didn't really have very many right and were still confined to traditional roles with the household (Housewife) and in this quote Daisy very much reveals herself to hold a rather pessimistic point of view of the world and women's role in general. To really answer the question, one must first find out if Daisy even has a point of view besides of women besides baby producer and that one pretty face that you are married with and occasionally talk with and I think this stems from having married a man like Tom who honestly does not care very much about Daisy preferring to spend his time with his mistress whom has a no strings attached relationship with than the mother of his children. Honestly at this point in history guys just favored beauty over brains ignoring the comments that their wife's make and just staying with them for the physical attraction.
If the fact that Tom has a mistress is publicly known, why does Daisy do nothing to stop it or does it even bother her?
I believe that she knows that he has a mistress but so do the other men and since everyone is doing it she cant really complain without appearing as out of the loop or wrong and it is the fear of being wrong that actually prevents her from complaining about it. I do believe that it bothers her considering in chapter 2, she and Tom appear to have a discussion about but eventually amounts to nothing as in the next chapter, he shamelessly visits his mistress in front of Nick as it turns out such matters while typically not dealt with in public are not a point of shame and as matter a fact are treated as almost a matter of pride to say I have a mistress because in this point in history men are always right and women are not allowed a say.
Closing Question:
If Tom was brought to the modern day world, would he still be considered as someone to be admired like Nick does in the book?
The Great Gatsby- Maria Cuervo
Opening question: Why does this novel take place in New York? Is this setting necessary to the novel?
Core Questions:
1. How does weather parallel the narrative tone of the novel?
In chapter five Gatsby desperately wants to see Daisy, and convinces Nick to invite her over to his house for tea. In this chapter the weather parallels the narratives tone throughout the reunion. The day begins with heavy rain and Gatsby being extremely nervous and almost dropping Nick's clock. Although, Gatsby fears that the reunion was a mistake Nick decides to leave him and Daisy alone to talk. When he comes back it has stopped raining and the sun is shining. Likewise Nick finds Daisy's face "smeared with tears" and Gatsby "glowing" with happiness". Fitzgerald creates a simile comparing Gatsby to a weather man and an ecstatic patron of recurrent light in order to develop the parallelism between the tone of the reunion and the weather. " It's stopped raining... When he realized what I was taking about, that there were twinkle-bells of sunshine in the room, he smiled like a weather man, like an ecstatic patron of recurrent light, and repeated the news to Daisy." (page 89)
Fitzgerald, F. Scott. The Great Gatsby. New York: Charles Scribner's Sons, 1925. Print. (89)
2. What is the purpose of the green light?
In chapter five Gatsby tells Daisy that when he looks across the bay he can see a green light that burns at the end of her dock. Fitzgerald uses a simile to symbolize Gatsby's hopes and dream of being close to Daisy. At first Fitzgerald uses the image of the green light to describe how distant Gatsby feels from Daisy and as a sign of hope that he can see from his window. However, after their reunion Gatsby compares the distance between a star and the moon to clarify that he now feels closer to Daisy and that his hopes and dreams of being with her are closer to reach. "You always have a green light that burns all night at the end of your dock"(page 92) "Possibly it had occurred to him that the colossal significance of the light had now vanished forever. Compared to the great distance that had separated him from Daisy it had seemed very near to her, almost toughing her. It seemed as close as a star to the moon." (page 93)
Fitzgerald, F. Scott. The Great Gatsby. New York: Charles Scribner's Sons, 1925. Print. (92-93)
Closing question: Is wealth the only factor that determines a persons social class? Is this still a factor in present day society?
Core Questions:
1. How does weather parallel the narrative tone of the novel?
In chapter five Gatsby desperately wants to see Daisy, and convinces Nick to invite her over to his house for tea. In this chapter the weather parallels the narratives tone throughout the reunion. The day begins with heavy rain and Gatsby being extremely nervous and almost dropping Nick's clock. Although, Gatsby fears that the reunion was a mistake Nick decides to leave him and Daisy alone to talk. When he comes back it has stopped raining and the sun is shining. Likewise Nick finds Daisy's face "smeared with tears" and Gatsby "glowing" with happiness". Fitzgerald creates a simile comparing Gatsby to a weather man and an ecstatic patron of recurrent light in order to develop the parallelism between the tone of the reunion and the weather. " It's stopped raining... When he realized what I was taking about, that there were twinkle-bells of sunshine in the room, he smiled like a weather man, like an ecstatic patron of recurrent light, and repeated the news to Daisy." (page 89)
Fitzgerald, F. Scott. The Great Gatsby. New York: Charles Scribner's Sons, 1925. Print. (89)
2. What is the purpose of the green light?
In chapter five Gatsby tells Daisy that when he looks across the bay he can see a green light that burns at the end of her dock. Fitzgerald uses a simile to symbolize Gatsby's hopes and dream of being close to Daisy. At first Fitzgerald uses the image of the green light to describe how distant Gatsby feels from Daisy and as a sign of hope that he can see from his window. However, after their reunion Gatsby compares the distance between a star and the moon to clarify that he now feels closer to Daisy and that his hopes and dreams of being with her are closer to reach. "You always have a green light that burns all night at the end of your dock"(page 92) "Possibly it had occurred to him that the colossal significance of the light had now vanished forever. Compared to the great distance that had separated him from Daisy it had seemed very near to her, almost toughing her. It seemed as close as a star to the moon." (page 93)
Fitzgerald, F. Scott. The Great Gatsby. New York: Charles Scribner's Sons, 1925. Print. (92-93)
Closing question: Is wealth the only factor that determines a persons social class? Is this still a factor in present day society?
Gatsby Seminar Questions - Ashley Rodriguez
Opening Question:
Looks and class was important during the era of the "Roaring twenties", whether it was where you come from or who you make of your self. How do you think that aspect of importance of having such a lavish lifestyle has evolved to present day?
Core Questions:
With all the extravagant parties he would have and so much aspects being said as to who he really was. Why did Gatsby displayed himself as such a mystical person as so many people viewed him with so much respect?
Being contributed with so much rumors as to who he was, Gatsby made a name of himself. And with the parties that he would throw everyone would look forward to attend his house. For the fact that he wouldn't show himself, it remained such a mysterious background as to who he was. As in chapter 3, when Nick attended his first party, he sees everyone talk and idolize Gatsby even thought they didn't personally know him. Pg.48 "He smiled understandingly-much more than understandingly. It was one of the rare smiles with a quality of eternal reassurance in it, that you may come across in life four or five times". Because Nick was the only one that actually received an invitation he felt so honored in a strange way, considering he didn't know who this "Gatsby" everyone talked about, was. Before Gatsby reviled himself, his mysterious image contributed to the idolization that all these people had for him.
What was the purpose of the book being written in Nick's point of view? Why was his perspective as the narrator contribute to the reader's understanding of the book?
Even though the author expressed the book through only one of the character's point of view it helped in a way that the character had no knowledge about anything. As the book when on, the narrator helped the reader understand in a way of questioning and describing so much imagery in the head that it almost was so easy to understand everything. Even though it was from only his perspective it gave the reader room to understand and elaborate on everything because that narrator was reviling ever detail rather than just cutting to the point. It also gave the reader help to understand the dialogue through different contents.
Closing Question:
Even though wealth was a big contribution to the marriage of Daisy and Tom, do you think it shows that materialism can sometimes overtake the aspect of marriage for "true love"? Or did Daisy just settle with Tom because of his wealth because she knew she would always feel this infatuation towards Gatsby?
Looks and class was important during the era of the "Roaring twenties", whether it was where you come from or who you make of your self. How do you think that aspect of importance of having such a lavish lifestyle has evolved to present day?
Core Questions:
With all the extravagant parties he would have and so much aspects being said as to who he really was. Why did Gatsby displayed himself as such a mystical person as so many people viewed him with so much respect?
Being contributed with so much rumors as to who he was, Gatsby made a name of himself. And with the parties that he would throw everyone would look forward to attend his house. For the fact that he wouldn't show himself, it remained such a mysterious background as to who he was. As in chapter 3, when Nick attended his first party, he sees everyone talk and idolize Gatsby even thought they didn't personally know him. Pg.48 "He smiled understandingly-much more than understandingly. It was one of the rare smiles with a quality of eternal reassurance in it, that you may come across in life four or five times". Because Nick was the only one that actually received an invitation he felt so honored in a strange way, considering he didn't know who this "Gatsby" everyone talked about, was. Before Gatsby reviled himself, his mysterious image contributed to the idolization that all these people had for him.
What was the purpose of the book being written in Nick's point of view? Why was his perspective as the narrator contribute to the reader's understanding of the book?
Even though the author expressed the book through only one of the character's point of view it helped in a way that the character had no knowledge about anything. As the book when on, the narrator helped the reader understand in a way of questioning and describing so much imagery in the head that it almost was so easy to understand everything. Even though it was from only his perspective it gave the reader room to understand and elaborate on everything because that narrator was reviling ever detail rather than just cutting to the point. It also gave the reader help to understand the dialogue through different contents.
Closing Question:
Even though wealth was a big contribution to the marriage of Daisy and Tom, do you think it shows that materialism can sometimes overtake the aspect of marriage for "true love"? Or did Daisy just settle with Tom because of his wealth because she knew she would always feel this infatuation towards Gatsby?
Gatsby Seminar Questions- Carla Allende
Opening Question:
How have the perception of social classes, being wealthy or poor have changed since the 1920's?
Core Questions:
Nick refers to himself as being one of the few people that he has ever known, however, somehow he likes the fact that Jordan Baker is dishonest. Why is this?
Nick likes that Jordan is dishonest because its a "real" quality that he sees in her because she doesn't have to pretend to be someone that she's not. He says, "She was incurably dishonest. She wasn't able to endure being at a disadvantage. It made no difference to me."(58). This quote clearly shows that it makes no difference to him, so he could like her dishonesty. He might be contradicting himself, but he likes this because she is not hiding anything. Its better to show who the person is, and not pretend to be someone that the person is not.
In regards to what Daisy says about her daughter being a fool, why would she say this about her own daughter?
After being told that she (Daisy) had had a baby girl, she said, "I'm glad it’s a girl. And I hope she’ll be a fool- that’s the best thing a girl can be in this world, a beautiful little fool.” (17).I think she says this because she knows how society sees women. Not that she is calling her baby a fool, but just that she will be seen like the rest of women.
Closing Question:
During the years of the upcoming of jazz and flappers, women were beginning to receive some sort of freedom as they began to change the stereotype. What has changed since then, however, what are the similarities as well?
How have the perception of social classes, being wealthy or poor have changed since the 1920's?
Core Questions:
Nick refers to himself as being one of the few people that he has ever known, however, somehow he likes the fact that Jordan Baker is dishonest. Why is this?
Nick likes that Jordan is dishonest because its a "real" quality that he sees in her because she doesn't have to pretend to be someone that she's not. He says, "She was incurably dishonest. She wasn't able to endure being at a disadvantage. It made no difference to me."(58). This quote clearly shows that it makes no difference to him, so he could like her dishonesty. He might be contradicting himself, but he likes this because she is not hiding anything. Its better to show who the person is, and not pretend to be someone that the person is not.
After being told that she (Daisy) had had a baby girl, she said, "I'm glad it’s a girl. And I hope she’ll be a fool- that’s the best thing a girl can be in this world, a beautiful little fool.” (17).I think she says this because she knows how society sees women. Not that she is calling her baby a fool, but just that she will be seen like the rest of women.
Closing Question:
During the years of the upcoming of jazz and flappers, women were beginning to receive some sort of freedom as they began to change the stereotype. What has changed since then, however, what are the similarities as well?
Great Gatsby Questions - Camilo Parody
Opening Question - How do gender roles and religious views affect a woman's ability to make her own decisions such as leaving her husband for another man? How does this differ from the 20's and now?
Core Questions -
1. Initially Gatsby is seen as this mystery man who people know little about, to the point where some even think he killed a man. All because of the shroud of mystery he instills in the minds of the people at his parties where he is hidden in the background. Do you think that Gatsby throws these extravagant parties to make himself seem more interesting?
I believe that he does because, initially, in Nick's point of view Gatsby was this great mysterious man which he had a great interest for. But upon getting to know him better and talking more with him he began to realize that he was a man that "had little to say."(pg. 64) and that he "had gradually faded and he had become simply the proprietor of an elaborate road-house next door" (pg. 64) In my opinion Gatsby does this to sort of attract people, but he never really lets them in too much, hence the fact that some even believe he has killed a man.(pg. 49)
2. Do you believe that that Gatsby forms this friendship with Nick as a way of regaining contact with Daisy by letting her see the man he's become?
I honestly believe there is at least a shred of truth to this question. There's been times in the book where you can tell Gatsby's need and desperation to be even remotely near Daisy. For example, when Gatsby found out Nick was going to have tea at Miss Baker's house (pg. 67) the fact isn't necessarily clear, but in my opinion it seemed like Gatsby as trying to go because he knew Daisy would be there. Another example would be when Jordan and Nick were talking after they had left the plaza. Jordan explains to Nick that Gatsby had "bought that house so that Daisy would be just across the bay" (pg. 78) later in their conversation Nick wonders why Gatsby didn't ask Jordan to arrange a meeting. She explains to him that "he wants her to see his house,' she explained. 'And your house is right next door" (pg. 78) this further proves that Gatsby is sort of using Nick as a means of facilitating the contact between him and Daisy.
Closing Question - Why do you think the author uses this technique of telling Gatsby's story through nick's eyes, could this be to further add mystery to Gatsby's character?
Great Gatsby Seminar Questions
Opening Question:
1. How is the idea of infidelity portrayed through the characters in the Great Gatsby, and what are their reasons for it?
Core Questions:
1. Why are there far-fetched rumors told about Gatsby?
- The people who come to Gatsby's parties make and spread rumors about him because they don't know who Gatsby actually is. The reason why they are rumors and not facts is because it portrays Gatsby as a mysterious character that nobody has seen or heard. Instead, they make extravagant rumors, such as killing a man because he "had found out that he was nephew to Von Hindenburg and second cousin to the devil" (p. 61). They also say he was a German spy, is a bootlegger, and related to German royalty. The people knew nothing about him, and so to fill in that empty knowledge they would guess and repeat things they had heard.
2. Why does Daisy cry over Gatsby's shirts?
- When Daisy says that she is sad because she has never seen such beautiful shirts before, she is sad because she realizes that if she had waited for Gatsby after the war, she could have had love and money with a man she truly loves. Instead though, she lives in an unhappy marriage where her husband is unfaithful. She slowly begins to realize how much of a difference this might have made in her life, as she admires Gatsby's splendid house. "Daisy admired this aspect or that of the feudal silhouette against the sky, admired the gardens, the sparkling odor of jonquils and the frothy odor of hawthorn and plum blossoms..."(p.90) and as they tour the house, they "wandered through Marie Antoinette music-rooms and Restoration salons" (p.91) and "period bedrooms swathed in rose and lavender silk and vivid new flowers..." (p.91).This description of the rooms lays way to how extravagant the rest of the house is and how Daisy admires it, and it is not until she sees the shirts of sheer linen, thick silk, and fine flannel in all kinds of colors and styles that the realization of the life she could have had causes her to cry.
Closing Question:
1. It has been known for marriage to be in the interests of wealth instead of love for both men and women, as seen in Daisy's and Tom Buchanan's marriage, because it was viewed as necessary in society to marry into a wealthy family. How would this idea of marrying for money be viewed in present day society?
1. How is the idea of infidelity portrayed through the characters in the Great Gatsby, and what are their reasons for it?
Core Questions:
1. Why are there far-fetched rumors told about Gatsby?
- The people who come to Gatsby's parties make and spread rumors about him because they don't know who Gatsby actually is. The reason why they are rumors and not facts is because it portrays Gatsby as a mysterious character that nobody has seen or heard. Instead, they make extravagant rumors, such as killing a man because he "had found out that he was nephew to Von Hindenburg and second cousin to the devil" (p. 61). They also say he was a German spy, is a bootlegger, and related to German royalty. The people knew nothing about him, and so to fill in that empty knowledge they would guess and repeat things they had heard.
2. Why does Daisy cry over Gatsby's shirts?
- When Daisy says that she is sad because she has never seen such beautiful shirts before, she is sad because she realizes that if she had waited for Gatsby after the war, she could have had love and money with a man she truly loves. Instead though, she lives in an unhappy marriage where her husband is unfaithful. She slowly begins to realize how much of a difference this might have made in her life, as she admires Gatsby's splendid house. "Daisy admired this aspect or that of the feudal silhouette against the sky, admired the gardens, the sparkling odor of jonquils and the frothy odor of hawthorn and plum blossoms..."(p.90) and as they tour the house, they "wandered through Marie Antoinette music-rooms and Restoration salons" (p.91) and "period bedrooms swathed in rose and lavender silk and vivid new flowers..." (p.91).This description of the rooms lays way to how extravagant the rest of the house is and how Daisy admires it, and it is not until she sees the shirts of sheer linen, thick silk, and fine flannel in all kinds of colors and styles that the realization of the life she could have had causes her to cry.
Closing Question:
1. It has been known for marriage to be in the interests of wealth instead of love for both men and women, as seen in Daisy's and Tom Buchanan's marriage, because it was viewed as necessary in society to marry into a wealthy family. How would this idea of marrying for money be viewed in present day society?
Gatsby Seminar Questions- Alexa Cortes
Opening Question: Why was the story told through Nick's perspective rather than an omniscient narrator?
Core Question:
1. If the Great Gatsby took place today, would daisy have divorced Tom and Married Gatsby ?
If the Great Gatsby took place today, Daisy would divorce Tom and Marry Gatsby. Daisy loved Gatsby, but at the time Gatsby was poor. Women at that time did not work, Daisy went after the money not love. Daisy realizes that she didn't love TOmen when she says, "The only crazy I was was when I married him. I knew right away I made a mistake. He borrowed somebody's best suit to get married in and never told me about it" (page 39). Daisy realized marrying him was a mistake and that she didn't really love him and he didn't love Tom didn't love her either.
2. How would Gatsby's life differ if he was born into a family of wealth and class rather than scamming his way through life?
Core Question:
1. If the Great Gatsby took place today, would daisy have divorced Tom and Married Gatsby ?
If the Great Gatsby took place today, Daisy would divorce Tom and Marry Gatsby. Daisy loved Gatsby, but at the time Gatsby was poor. Women at that time did not work, Daisy went after the money not love. Daisy realizes that she didn't love TOmen when she says, "The only crazy I was was when I married him. I knew right away I made a mistake. He borrowed somebody's best suit to get married in and never told me about it" (page 39). Daisy realized marrying him was a mistake and that she didn't really love him and he didn't love Tom didn't love her either.
2. How would Gatsby's life differ if he was born into a family of wealth and class rather than scamming his way through life?
Gatsby would be married to Daisy and they would both be happy. The whole story was this triangle based on love, betrayal and their background. If a person wasn't in the upper class, they couldn't be associated with them. Gatsby was the one to take action and change his life. Although Gatsby's method wasn't legal, he wanted to become a rich successful man to capture Daisy's heart once again. In the book it shows us how Gatsby felt about his situation, "His parents were shiftless and unsuccessful farm people-his imagination had never really accepted them as his parents at all. The truth was that Jay Gatsby of West Egg, Long Island, sprang from his Platonic conception of himself. He was the son of God….and he must be about his fathers business, the service of a vast, vulgar, and meretricious beauty. So he invented just the sort of Jay Gatsby that a seventeen year old boy would be likely to invent, and to this conception he was faithful to the end" (page 91-92).
Closing Question: Nick had a kind of obsession with Gatsby, To what extent was Gatsby really "great"?
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
Great Gatsby Questions- Alaan Martinez
Opening Question:
During the first chapter, you get an idea of how Nick was raised. Why do you think that he found an interest in Gatsby, being brought up the way that he was?Core Questions:
Page 23. Do you feel that the "valley of the ashes" symbolized the environment in which the poor people lived?
I feel that the "valley of the ashes" may symbolize the poor people's environment, but it may also symbolize other things such as America as a whole. It talks about "men who move dimly", "line of grey cars craws along an invisible track", and "passengers on waiting trains can stare at the dismal scene". These phrases, among others, give the place a sort of dreary, bleak feel to it so it could be the sort of slums in which the poor people live, but it could also be symbolizing something else like maybe corruption in America and how ultimately, everything here is about money in the end and we all just want to be rich.
Page 24. Why do you think the part on Doctor TJ Eckleburg's eyes on the billboard is in the story?
I feel that Doctor TJ Eckleburg's billboard eyes are crucial to this part in the story. Phrases such as "blue and gigantic" and "their retinas are one yard high" are scattered around this paragraph. The eyes give off an air of dominance, superiority, and vigilance. These eyes may be perceived as a good thing or a bad thing. I feel that the eyes may represent the people of higher social status and with more money. The eyes are looking down into "the gray land", maybe in a way on how a richer person would look down on a poorer person. The eyes may also represent growing commercialism in the U.S. and the valley of the ashes may represent everyone in America as sheep since ultimately what all the people in the valley or America (symbolically) want is money.
Ending Question:
If the story were being told in 3rd person instead of through Nick's eyes, would we benefit from this or is it better the way it is?
The forms of corruption in The Great Gatsby
The forms of corruption in The Great Gatsby
Opening Question:
What different forms of corruption exist? What can corruption change in a person?
Core Questions:
How does Gatsby view his party-goers? What does he think about his parties?
The line "...standing alone on the marble steps and looking from one group to the other with approving eyes" on page 50 gives the impression that Gatsby is looking for something. Not so much that Gatsby is looking over his party, but looking for something, or someone. The later line "...but no one swooned backwards on Gatsby, and no French bob touched Gatsby's shoulder, and no singing quartets were formed with Gatsby's head for one link" gives the impression that Gatsby does not care very much to be social with those at his parties. Therefore, it is reasonable to assume that Gatsby does not really find his parties or most of his guests as important. He's has a clear goal in his mind, and he's willing to throw these lavish parties to get to it. This is also a form of corruption, where a single idea fills a person's head so much, they are willing to do many things to achieve and reach their goal.
Why does Gatsby love Daisy?
Nick makes an interesting comment on page 95; he writes that, "There must have been moments even that afternoon when Daisy tumbled short of his dreams-not through her own fault, but because of the colossal vitality of his illusion." He later goes on to say that Gatsby "Added to it all the time, decking it out with every bright feather that drifted his way". These lines bring about a realization, in which it becomes apparent that Gatsby loves Daisy for the wrong reason; He has a definite idea of Daisy in his head that is different from that of the actual one. Gatsby has held on to his idea of his Daisy, that he is a little surprised to find that the real one is somewhat different. He has a corrupted idea of Daisy, where she is how she was the many years ago when they had met. While it still may be "love", it is baseless, because his Daisy, the one who he thinks of, is different that the actual one.
Closing Question:
Can someone like Gatsby ever rid themselves of their corruption? Or will we have to carry that throughout our lives?
Opening Question:
What different forms of corruption exist? What can corruption change in a person?
Core Questions:
How does Gatsby view his party-goers? What does he think about his parties?
The line "...standing alone on the marble steps and looking from one group to the other with approving eyes" on page 50 gives the impression that Gatsby is looking for something. Not so much that Gatsby is looking over his party, but looking for something, or someone. The later line "...but no one swooned backwards on Gatsby, and no French bob touched Gatsby's shoulder, and no singing quartets were formed with Gatsby's head for one link" gives the impression that Gatsby does not care very much to be social with those at his parties. Therefore, it is reasonable to assume that Gatsby does not really find his parties or most of his guests as important. He's has a clear goal in his mind, and he's willing to throw these lavish parties to get to it. This is also a form of corruption, where a single idea fills a person's head so much, they are willing to do many things to achieve and reach their goal.
Why does Gatsby love Daisy?
Nick makes an interesting comment on page 95; he writes that, "There must have been moments even that afternoon when Daisy tumbled short of his dreams-not through her own fault, but because of the colossal vitality of his illusion." He later goes on to say that Gatsby "Added to it all the time, decking it out with every bright feather that drifted his way". These lines bring about a realization, in which it becomes apparent that Gatsby loves Daisy for the wrong reason; He has a definite idea of Daisy in his head that is different from that of the actual one. Gatsby has held on to his idea of his Daisy, that he is a little surprised to find that the real one is somewhat different. He has a corrupted idea of Daisy, where she is how she was the many years ago when they had met. While it still may be "love", it is baseless, because his Daisy, the one who he thinks of, is different that the actual one.
Closing Question:
Can someone like Gatsby ever rid themselves of their corruption? Or will we have to carry that throughout our lives?
Gatsby Seminar Questions- Mario Gutierrez
Opening Question:
There was so much hope for better life during the Roaring Twenties since everything was simply becoming better. Do you feel that having a lot of hope is a good thing or a bad thing?
Core Questions:
-When Nick visits the Buchanan home for dinner, how do you think he feels about the indirect "showing off" of their wealth?
I honestly feel that their "showing off" made Nick feel overwhelmed, and it sort of bothered him, but also at times I think he wanted to not feel like an outcast. Tom would talk about his home saying things like, "I've got a nice place here." (pg. 7) and randomly "wanting to take him down to the stables" (pg. 15). I noticed that these things slightly bothered him like when Daisy calls him "an absolute rose" and he calls it "untrue..." that she was "only extemporizing" (pg. 14). And when the subject of Gatsby arises, he tries to tell everyone, "This Mr. Gatsby you spoke of is my neighbor-" (pg. 14) before he was completely cut off and ignored. All in all, he was a bit bothered and "disgusted" (pg. 20) by them.
-Why do you think Gatsby doesn't want to announce his presence at his parties when he knows what they speak of him, and how he is considered such a "great" person?
I believe he doesn't want to announce his presence because he is not the type of
"cocky" or "arrogant"person to want to do that, like when he said in a humble manner, "I'm afraid I'm not a very good host" (pg. 48). I also think there is another reason for him throwing parties, since he's not doing it to show off. He does not drink and have fun like everyone else does, instead we find him just observing people, "looking from one group to another with approving eyes." (pg. 50)
Closing Question:
The Great Gatsby has many elements of extravagant wealth and people. How do you think this story would differ if it was written in a different time period? Would it be logical?
Michael's Questions
Opening:
Opening:
How does wealth change
ones appearance towards another?
Core:
Why was Tom afraid of
Gatsby having anything on him?
In my opinion it seems
that Tom was afraid of Gatsby simple because of his wealth and the power that
is associated with it. "Well, they say he's the nephew or a cousin of
Kaiser Wilhelm's. That's where all his money comes from". Pg (32)."Really?"…"I'm
scared of him. I'd hate for him to have anything on me."(32). From the
text it clear that Tom had not known that Gatsby was wealthy however once he
learned this, he immediately reevaluated Gatsby and was afraid of offending
him. By doing so Fitzgerald promotes the idea that in this era of time and
place wealth was a very important part of the social stature of a person, and
it could either be good or bad. The scene quoted above is a moment of
realization for Tom, a moment before he didn't think of Gatsby as a powerful
man who could affect his life, but with this little information that Gatsby was
wealthy changed this entire perspective.
Why is it that Tom was
more observant of Gatsby after learning of his wealth?
In my opinion Tom became
much more aware of Gatsby after learning about his wealth, for example
"There was music from my neighbor's house through the summer nights.
In his blue gardens men and girls came and went like moths among the
whisperings and the champagne."(39) Fitzgerald uses these details to show
that Tom is now more attentive towards the activities of Gatsby. Before Tom
learned of Gatsby's wealth he did not notice Gatsby as much or consider how
Gatsby could change his life or even play a large role in his social stature.
What Fitzgerald tells the reader is that in this era of time the wealth of your
neighbor could very well control your social status, Tom who was relatively
indifferent about Gatsby in regards to his status is now suddenly, to an
extent, worried about Gatsby.
Closing Question:
By revealing the wealth
of Gatsby, and because it became a concern of Tom, to what extent does Gatsby's
wealth effect Tom?
Opening:
How can story truth present a greater depth of someone’s
true intentions than real truth? Does story truth create any kind of illusion for
the individual?
Core:
What role did Daisy’s past with Gatsby play that made her so
“mad about her husband” Tom Buchanan in the beginning of their marriage?
The contrast between the outcomes of her relationship with
Gatsby and Tom shows to have impacted her feelings for her new husband, knowing
from experience that even when a relationship that seemed as if it were made to
be, could end with the possibility of a different outcome. Knowing how Gatsby
felt about her, and how she felt about it, it was hard for Daisy to let him go
in the end, and very nearly ended her marriage with Tom Buchanan when she received
Gatsby’s letter and asked Jordan Baker to “Tell ‘em all Daisy’s change’ her
mine. Say: Daisy’s change’ her mine!”(76)
Tom, however, managed to marry Daisy, “the next day” “without
“so much as a shiver”. He represented a secure future, a sure thing that would
not mean any kind of separation between him and Daisy, and her obvious fear of
this fact transcended to her marriage when Jordan Baker described theirs as a “touching”
arrangement. If Tom were to leave Daisy for a moment “she’d look around
uneasily, and say: Where’s Tom gone?” and wear the “most abstracted expression”
until he returned to her. (77)
How does having a library with “absolutely real” books contradict with Gatsby's image?
The lavish surface of Gatsby’s life, as well as the distance
he maintains that keeps anyone from knowing the kind of person he is, presents
a small hint of who he is when one of his guests known as the Owl Eyed Man gawks at the fact Gatsby doesn't
hide behind false pretenses in his possessions when he exclaims that the books are "absolutely real-have pages and everything. I thought they'd be a nice durable cardboard. Matter of fact, they're absolutely real." (45) The man continues on by expressing that Gatsby is a "regular Belasco", presenting a figure that was famous for his contribution to the arts, just like Gatsby seems to be in his "thoroughness" for providing what he can afford. The surprise with which the Owl Eyed Man expresses his observation shows how he imagined Gatsby as a different kind of person.
The image that F. Scott Fitzgerald is then trying to provide of Gatsby is his genuine existence, just like the library with real books, that contrast to the image of Gatsby produced by the gossip which swarms throughout his home at his infamous parties.
Closing:
When Caraway describes that "dishonesty in a woman is a thing you never deeply blame", does the honesty of a woman hold as much value now in present time as much as it did then? Does honesty hold different standards of expectations for men and women in society?
The Great Gatsby Questions
Opening Question:
Do you think Nick is sexist? Why will he hang out with Tom and his mistress but not let Gatsby see Daisy?
Core Questions:
Do you think Nick is a bad cousin for not telling Daisy about Tom's mistress?
I don't think he is categorized as a bad person because Daisy has been married to Tom for quite a while and she knew that he was having an affair with many women and she was still there. I don't know why she didn't leave because she didn't care enough to leave him or be upset about it.
Why didn't Gatsby just go see Daisy instead of spending all that money on parties and use Nick for an excuse to go over for tea?
I think Gatsby was afraid that Daisy didn't love him anymore because he was aware that she was married. Or it could've been that he was trying to respect the fact that she had a husband. I think that he didn't want to impose into Daisy's life.
Do you think that Nick is being used just to get Daisy back?
I don't know. Nick just moved into a house that was in a budget without knowing that Gatsby lived there or why Gatsby moved there. I think Gatsby sees Nick as a trustworthy person and wanted to inform him about Daisy because he wanted his help to see her. I just really want to know how he knew that Nick and Daisy were related?
Do you think Nick is sexist? Why will he hang out with Tom and his mistress but not let Gatsby see Daisy?
Core Questions:
Do you think Nick is a bad cousin for not telling Daisy about Tom's mistress?
I don't think he is categorized as a bad person because Daisy has been married to Tom for quite a while and she knew that he was having an affair with many women and she was still there. I don't know why she didn't leave because she didn't care enough to leave him or be upset about it.
Why didn't Gatsby just go see Daisy instead of spending all that money on parties and use Nick for an excuse to go over for tea?
I think Gatsby was afraid that Daisy didn't love him anymore because he was aware that she was married. Or it could've been that he was trying to respect the fact that she had a husband. I think that he didn't want to impose into Daisy's life.
Do you think that Nick is being used just to get Daisy back?
I don't know. Nick just moved into a house that was in a budget without knowing that Gatsby lived there or why Gatsby moved there. I think Gatsby sees Nick as a trustworthy person and wanted to inform him about Daisy because he wanted his help to see her. I just really want to know how he knew that Nick and Daisy were related?
Alejandra Deras Questions for Discussion "The Great Gatsby"
Discussion Questions
In page 17 says, "I'm glad it's a girl. And I hope she'll be a fool- that's the best thing a girl can be in this world, a beautiful little fool." Why does Daisy tell Nick that every girl in this world is made to be a fool, a beautiful fool?
-I believe Daisy answers that way and explains to Nick that every girl is a fool in this world, because of the fact that she knows that Tom, her husband has another girl in his life other than her.
In page 45 says, "He waved his hand toward the book-shelves."
-"About what. As a matter of fact you needn't bother to ascertain. I ascertained. They're real."
-"About what. As a matter of fact you needn't bother to ascertain. I ascertained. They're real."
-"The books?"
He nodded.
"Absolutely real- have pages and everything..."
Why or what is the importance of a book being "real"? Does it have a "Deeper meaning" or do real books in the story represent story?
-I believe that the books may be represented as a great value. Or may show that owning a real book proves your wealth. Maybe back in this day, actual books weren't just owned by anyone.
In page 48 it says such a deep, extended, detailed feeling about how Nick felt once he found out that Gatsby was the man speaking to him. Why did he feel so shocked or surprised in meeting this man?
-Gatsby was someone everyone would talk about, and even wonder if he killed a man or not. He was a wealthy man and was a part of war. Maybe with so much hearing about him, Nick was impressed in how he unexpectedly met him, without even knowing or realizing it was him.
Closing Question :
Through out the story, Gatsby is known now based on his wealth and first image as another person that lives in the rich side of the city. How is this easy to tell in our present day to label or easily tell when somebody is wealthy and automatically known as a wealthy or rich person?
-In real life, people usually tend to see the things people own, the place in which they live and their own postures as how they act or react towards things. That is usually how people can tell or assume when someone is wealthy.
-In real life, people usually tend to see the things people own, the place in which they live and their own postures as how they act or react towards things. That is usually how people can tell or assume when someone is wealthy.
Emmanuelle's Great Gatsby's Questions
Opening question:
How has the importance/ role of automobiles/transportation changed from the 1920s to present day?
Core:
1. What relation might the car accident (p.54) have with Daisy and Gatsby? Why would this particular accident be important?
As the story reaches Gatsby re-encountering Daisy, the narrator knows about their past relationship. Nick mentions Gatsby's "five year [...] [waiting] [...] [to]see her [...]"(p.78). At the car accident, "a dozen men"(p.55) tell the driver that the "wheel and car were no longer joined by any physical bond"(p.55). This is the same as Gatsby's and Daisy's relation: they have not seen each other for five years. The driver says to "put her [(the car)] in reverse"(p.55), however the audience tells him that the "the wheel's off"(p.55). Yet, he states that there is "no harm in trying"(p.55). This situation would be impossible because without one of the car's components (the wheel) the car can not go back. In Gatsby's situation, he tries to go in "reverse"(p.55) without Daisy being there. Fitzgerald italicizes the word "wheel"(p.55). This shows the importance of this one component of the car for it to work and go in reverse. Daisy is therefore the missing piece for Gatsby to go back in "reverse".
2. How is the portrayal of Mr.Mckee new to society during the 1920s?What does Fitzgerald reflect upon this portrayal?
"Mr.Mckee was a pale, feminine man [...]"(.p30) Fitzgerald describes this man as a woman, therefore the role/characteristics of Mr. and Mrs. Mckee are inverted. She is "shrill, languid, handsome and horrible"(p.30), whereas Mr.Mckee acts in a more lady like manner by being "[more] respectful"(p.30). The author shows the changing society of the time. When Mrs. Mckee suggests to Mr.Mckee to "do something with her [(Catherine)]"(p.33), he clearly demanstrates a dislike by "nodd[ing] in a bored way"(p.33). Furthermore, the description of one of his actions might be showing his preference for men: "[he] turned his attention to Tom"(p.33). As well, Tom insinuates this preference by asking Myrtle for a "letter of introduction to [her] husband, so [Mr.Mckee could] do some studies of him"(p.33).Mr.Mcke represents the changing preferences for love during the 1920s.
Closing question:
The driver of the car accident said: "there is no harm in tying"(p.55), although what he wanted to do was impossible. To what extent does present society follow this reasoning?
How has the importance/ role of automobiles/transportation changed from the 1920s to present day?
Core:
1. What relation might the car accident (p.54) have with Daisy and Gatsby? Why would this particular accident be important?
As the story reaches Gatsby re-encountering Daisy, the narrator knows about their past relationship. Nick mentions Gatsby's "five year [...] [waiting] [...] [to]see her [...]"(p.78). At the car accident, "a dozen men"(p.55) tell the driver that the "wheel and car were no longer joined by any physical bond"(p.55). This is the same as Gatsby's and Daisy's relation: they have not seen each other for five years. The driver says to "put her [(the car)] in reverse"(p.55), however the audience tells him that the "the wheel's off"(p.55). Yet, he states that there is "no harm in trying"(p.55). This situation would be impossible because without one of the car's components (the wheel) the car can not go back. In Gatsby's situation, he tries to go in "reverse"(p.55) without Daisy being there. Fitzgerald italicizes the word "wheel"(p.55). This shows the importance of this one component of the car for it to work and go in reverse. Daisy is therefore the missing piece for Gatsby to go back in "reverse".
2. How is the portrayal of Mr.Mckee new to society during the 1920s?What does Fitzgerald reflect upon this portrayal?
"Mr.Mckee was a pale, feminine man [...]"(.p30) Fitzgerald describes this man as a woman, therefore the role/characteristics of Mr. and Mrs. Mckee are inverted. She is "shrill, languid, handsome and horrible"(p.30), whereas Mr.Mckee acts in a more lady like manner by being "[more] respectful"(p.30). The author shows the changing society of the time. When Mrs. Mckee suggests to Mr.Mckee to "do something with her [(Catherine)]"(p.33), he clearly demanstrates a dislike by "nodd[ing] in a bored way"(p.33). Furthermore, the description of one of his actions might be showing his preference for men: "[he] turned his attention to Tom"(p.33). As well, Tom insinuates this preference by asking Myrtle for a "letter of introduction to [her] husband, so [Mr.Mckee could] do some studies of him"(p.33).Mr.Mcke represents the changing preferences for love during the 1920s.
Closing question:
The driver of the car accident said: "there is no harm in tying"(p.55), although what he wanted to do was impossible. To what extent does present society follow this reasoning?
Gloria- Great Gatsby Discussion Questions
Opening Question:
Helen Scott's "The Great Gatsby" Discusion Questions. 17 Sept 2013
Opening
Question
Respond to this quote:
It has always seemed strange to
me...The things we admire in men, kindness and generosity, openness, honesty,
understanding and feeling, are the concomitants of failure in our system. And
those traits we detest, sharpness, greed, acquisitiveness, meanness, egotism
and self-interest, are the traits of success. And while men admire the quality
of the first they love the produce of the second.
-John
Steinbeck, Cannery Row
How does Gatsby fit into this view?
How does he encompass both parts?
Core
Questions
Question Number 1
Q: Why does Myrtle buy the dog in chapter two?
A:
Myrtle buys the dog in town with Tom to feel rich, and to oppose her life in The
Valley of ashes. As a poorer family it is obvious that the Wilsons would not spontaneously
buy something like a dog. This spontaneity and disregard to cost is
characteristic to a person who has always been wealthy. Also the imagery of
life that comes with something like a puppy is a foil to the imagery given in
describing The Valley of Ashes. So I feel like Fitzgerald is using this to show
how Myrtle is embracing this new life with Tom, even though it is not
technically hers. And shows how she wants to, like most characters, become
rich. This places a great deal of value on material possession as the indicator
to a rich lifestyle. While Myrtle is excited about the dog, Tom seems
bored. “’I think it’s cute,’ said Mrs. Wilson enthusiastically. ‘How much is
it?’… ‘Is it a boy or a a girl?’ she asked delicately. … ‘It’s a bitch,’ said
Tom decisively, ‘Here’s your money. Go buy ten more dogs with it’” (27). Here
Tom sounds annoyed but Myrtle is excited, because she would typically not have
the chance to buy something like this.
Question Number 2
Q: Why
does Gatsby always drive so fast, and have an obsession with machines like cars
and planes that are fast-paced?
A: The
reader often is given scenes where Gatsby is driving quickly; he owns a
hydroplane, and a fleet of automobiles. This all points the reader to the fact
that Gatsby has this need for speed, and it makes it seem like he feels like he
has fallen behind. I think that this is due to the fact that he wasn't born
rich, and no matter how much money he makes now he is still behind people like
Tom and Daisy, who are "old money". His fast driving exemplifies how
he is trying to speed up and catch up to this thing that is unattainable. Gatsby’s
love for cars is seen in “It
was a rich cream color, bright and there in its monstrous length with
triumphant hat-boxes and supper-boxes and tool-boxes, and terraced with a
labyrinth of wind-shields that mirrored a dozen suns.” (pg.64) Only this is the
more materialistic side. As far as him driving fast, Fitzgerald presents it to
the reader in chapter 4 (p. 68) when a policeman tries to pull Gatsby over. Obviously
Gatsby’s driving was reckless or a policeman would not have attempted to pull
him over.
Closing
Question
To what extent does the corruption
presented in The Great Gatsby still exist today?
Rene De La Calleja's Great Gatsby Questions
Opening
Based on how diverse the United States has become since the 1920's, have the distinctions between social classes increased or decreased? Is it simply based on what region of the world you live on? Have the upper and lower classes simply become so centralized in specific regions that people just can't relate to them?
Core:
Even though Tom forces Nick to stay at the party, why does he seem to have no problem attending a dinner with his cousin's husband and his mistress?
While reading the book, I realized that Nick seemed like someone that gets pushed around a lot by other people. Nick says " Though I was curious to see her (Myrtle), I had no desire to meet her-but i did." (24), which makes the reader believe that Nick seems to be intimidated easily even if he is in an uncomfortable situation. Nick even says that Tom forced him to meet Myrtle and have dinner with them and their neighbors. Although it would make sense for Nick to decline this invitation no matter what, you also get the sense that Nick and Daisy aren't that close to begin with. Daisy says, "Even if we are cousins. You didn't come to my wedding" to which Nick replies "I wasn't back from the war". This shows how dry their conversations are, and how more than anything they are not close enough to get wrapped into each others personal lives.
Why does Nick become so infatuated by Jordan Baker, despite having only met her a few nights?
I believe that the reason why Nick becomes infatuated by Jordan is because of what she represents and because of her unique character. Throughout the book, Nick seems completely out of place in the neighborhood, especially at Gatsby's parties. It isn't until later in the book that Nick says " I began to like New York, the racy, adventurous feel of it at night, and the satisfaction that the constant flicker of men and women and machine gives to the restless eye." (56) I believe that Jordan represent these traits, and as a result, leads to Nick being attracted to her.
The second reason is that Jordan seem like the approachable woman that Nick has met in New York so far. Myrtle, Ms. McKee, and even Daisy seemed to be very snooty or concentrated on their own wealth. Jordan on the other hand is the only one woman Nick has met in New York that has not only been different, but has shown interest in him. "I hate careless people. That's why I like you." (58)
Closing:
Several people seemed to be aware of Tom having a mistress while being married to and having a child with Daisy. To what extent has the idea of "infidelity" and "trust" become more strict or loose in modern day society?
Based on how diverse the United States has become since the 1920's, have the distinctions between social classes increased or decreased? Is it simply based on what region of the world you live on? Have the upper and lower classes simply become so centralized in specific regions that people just can't relate to them?
Core:
Even though Tom forces Nick to stay at the party, why does he seem to have no problem attending a dinner with his cousin's husband and his mistress?
While reading the book, I realized that Nick seemed like someone that gets pushed around a lot by other people. Nick says " Though I was curious to see her (Myrtle), I had no desire to meet her-but i did." (24), which makes the reader believe that Nick seems to be intimidated easily even if he is in an uncomfortable situation. Nick even says that Tom forced him to meet Myrtle and have dinner with them and their neighbors. Although it would make sense for Nick to decline this invitation no matter what, you also get the sense that Nick and Daisy aren't that close to begin with. Daisy says, "Even if we are cousins. You didn't come to my wedding" to which Nick replies "I wasn't back from the war". This shows how dry their conversations are, and how more than anything they are not close enough to get wrapped into each others personal lives.
Why does Nick become so infatuated by Jordan Baker, despite having only met her a few nights?
I believe that the reason why Nick becomes infatuated by Jordan is because of what she represents and because of her unique character. Throughout the book, Nick seems completely out of place in the neighborhood, especially at Gatsby's parties. It isn't until later in the book that Nick says " I began to like New York, the racy, adventurous feel of it at night, and the satisfaction that the constant flicker of men and women and machine gives to the restless eye." (56) I believe that Jordan represent these traits, and as a result, leads to Nick being attracted to her.
The second reason is that Jordan seem like the approachable woman that Nick has met in New York so far. Myrtle, Ms. McKee, and even Daisy seemed to be very snooty or concentrated on their own wealth. Jordan on the other hand is the only one woman Nick has met in New York that has not only been different, but has shown interest in him. "I hate careless people. That's why I like you." (58)
Closing:
Several people seemed to be aware of Tom having a mistress while being married to and having a child with Daisy. To what extent has the idea of "infidelity" and "trust" become more strict or loose in modern day society?
Melissa's Great Gatsby Questions
Opening: Looking at Daisy & Tom's relationships; how have relationships evolved since the 1920's?
Core: Why does Nick describe Tom's body as "cruel"? (Pg.7)
-At first this didn't make sense to me, comparing a human body to an action. But after reading along, I can see why Nick considers Tom's body to be "cruel". Everything about Tom is cruel, and Nick can see analyze this from just taking a look at his body.
Core: Why does Nick describe West Egg as a "valley of ashes" if it seems like a busy/alive town. His use of metaphors to compare things to ashes and smoke are unclear to me. (Pg.23)
-I believe he chose "valley of ashes" because of the people who inhabit West Egg, not so much because of the physical features.
Closing: How do Gatsby's reasons to throw "parties" relate to the reason modern people throw parties?
The Great Gatsby Seminar Questions (Chp. I-V) -Lexie Miller
The Great Gatsby Seminar Questions (Chapters I-V)
Opening Question:
How have the roles of women changed from the 1920's to present day?
Core Questions:
Why does Gatsby throw parties every Saturday night, and why, within these parties does he act so mysterious and become "incognito"?
Gatsby throws parties every Saturday night in hopes of finding a girl. He throws a party wondering if maybe one night she will wind up attending, or that he will come across someone who knows of her and her whereabouts. This girl is named Daisy, Nick's cousin. The reader finds out that Gatsby and Daisy were once, "in love", and is in hopes of finding her and connecting with her again.
"'I think he half expected her to wander into one of his parties, some night', went on Jordan, 'but she never did. Then he began asking people casually if they knew her, and I was the first one he found...'" (Fitzgerald 79)
Jordan, the character revealing the information on Gatsby, is telling Nick the purpose of his parties. She gives clues as to why he is so mysterious, by asking "casually". Clearly, by throwing a party every night, he wants to see Daisy and run into her again and it almost seems desperate and anxious. Yet, at first he just throws the parties continuously, then, he begins asking about Daisy and if anyone knows her. The reader sees that Gatsby is being sly almost about it so no one assumes anything about his or his relationship with this girl, but, by throwing parties every weekend, the reader knows that it's a desperate attempt.
How is it that Gatsby and Daisy's relationship was so easily and quickly re-kindled?
Gatsby and Daisy's relationship together seemed to be so easily and quickly re-kindled because, from what the reader was revealed about their history, it can be said that they once had a strong connection and were "in love". Their goodbye was not an easy one. Gatsby knew where Daisy lived and bought his mansion to overlook the area in which she presides. He threw parties every Saturday in hopes of seeing her or finding her. The reader can tell that from Gatsby's actions, his emotions are still very strong towards her. As Jordan explains more about Gatsby's and Daisy's history together as a couple 5 years before, the reader understands why their connection can be so easily re-kindled.
"They were so engrossed in each other that she didn't see me until I was five feet away..." (Fitzgerald 74)
"The officer looked at Daisy while she was speaking, in a way that every young girl wants to be looked at some time..." (Fitzgerald 75)
The reader sees that even 5 years ago, Gatsby looked at Daisy passionately, revealing strong emotions towards her. Jordan later goes on to explain how Daisy was very upset when Gatsby had to leave for war, and how even the night before her wedding she had a weird breakdown. It makes the reader wonder, did Daisy ever think about Gatsby after her wedding? Did she ever wonder if he were dead? Daisy was so pleased to see Gatsby, yet it was a calm, almost reluctant greeting from the both of them. The reader could sense anxiety within each of the characters, showing they connected instantly upon reinforced contact with each other. As the day progresses, the two become more comfortable with each other, as if they forget the world, and even Nick's presence. By the end of the chapter, they are holding hands, re-kindled, and connected once again.
Closing Question:
Gatsby felt as though it were necessary to show off his wealth as if it held some kind of importance or matter in Daisy's mind. To what extent is this idea of "wealth" and "possession"present in modern day society?
Niall Miner - The Great Gatsby Questions
Opening:
Based on how easy it is to reach other people today, how has accessability changed in the past one hundred years? Does this mean that now with modern day technology it is "easier" to grab someone's attention?
Core:
Why are the guests at Gatsby's parties so intent on thinking that he has a dark side?
To me it seems like one can only get to know Gatsby if he chooses to know you first. Jordan says "I like large parties. They're so intimate. At small parties there isn't any privacy." (49), alluding to the fact that there is something to hide in the first place. Fitzgerald forces the reader to think that something is happening behind closed doors, and the truth is yet to be revealed. However, since there are so many people that Gatsby hides behind, it's hard for the guests not to be curious/inventive as to what he actually does. "You'll look at him sometimes when he thinks nobody's looking at him. I'll bet he killed a man." (44), the guests are just bent on finding out something that will make Gatsby less grand, even though it ruins his reputation.
After finally getting Daisy's attention, why does the green light stop having significance in Gatsby's life?
In Gatsby's eyes, the green light was his symbol of hope and things to come. Near the beginning of the novel Nick Carraway noticed Gatsby reaching out for the light; "he strectched out his arms toward the dark water in a curious way, and, far as I was from him, I could have sworn he was trembling" (20).
However, later on, once he begins reliving his feelings with Daisy he realizes that this goal has finally turned around for the better. After all of those years of waiting, he finally achieved his goal for Daisy to notice him. "Now it was again a green light on a dock. His count of enchanted objects had diminished by one." (93).
Closing:
For Gatsby, money only built the image of a man that no one knew, how do people today use money or fame as just a facade to hide their real objectives?
Based on how easy it is to reach other people today, how has accessability changed in the past one hundred years? Does this mean that now with modern day technology it is "easier" to grab someone's attention?
Core:
Why are the guests at Gatsby's parties so intent on thinking that he has a dark side?
To me it seems like one can only get to know Gatsby if he chooses to know you first. Jordan says "I like large parties. They're so intimate. At small parties there isn't any privacy." (49), alluding to the fact that there is something to hide in the first place. Fitzgerald forces the reader to think that something is happening behind closed doors, and the truth is yet to be revealed. However, since there are so many people that Gatsby hides behind, it's hard for the guests not to be curious/inventive as to what he actually does. "You'll look at him sometimes when he thinks nobody's looking at him. I'll bet he killed a man." (44), the guests are just bent on finding out something that will make Gatsby less grand, even though it ruins his reputation.
After finally getting Daisy's attention, why does the green light stop having significance in Gatsby's life?
In Gatsby's eyes, the green light was his symbol of hope and things to come. Near the beginning of the novel Nick Carraway noticed Gatsby reaching out for the light; "he strectched out his arms toward the dark water in a curious way, and, far as I was from him, I could have sworn he was trembling" (20).
However, later on, once he begins reliving his feelings with Daisy he realizes that this goal has finally turned around for the better. After all of those years of waiting, he finally achieved his goal for Daisy to notice him. "Now it was again a green light on a dock. His count of enchanted objects had diminished by one." (93).
Closing:
For Gatsby, money only built the image of a man that no one knew, how do people today use money or fame as just a facade to hide their real objectives?
Monday, September 16, 2013
David Pham's Gatsby Questions
Opening
How does separation affect relationships between individuals in the modern era as compared to in the time of war? (Is it more difficult or easier to go through a period of separation? How are the most influential times of separation, such as after graduation, affecting the mentality of a young adult?)
Core
Why is the land between New York and West Egg referred to as the "valley of ashes"?
The area between New York and West Egg is described as a “valley of ashes” (23). The imagery of this area seems to describe it as a literal valley of ashes, “a fantastic farm where ashes grow like wheat...of men who move dimly and already crumbling through the powdery air.” (23). However, the “valley of ashes” extends to more than just the scenery. It is obvious that poorer people live in the “valley of ashes”; Tom’s mistress, Myrtle, is described as someone who is resented by Tom’s acquaintances - who are most likely of the upper class. There are not many homes - the protagonist says that “the only building in sight was a small block of yellow brick…”(24) and “the interior was unprosperous and bare…” (25).
From this information, it can be inferred that the “valley of ashes”, so close to the prosperity of New York, represents the failing American Dream of the 1920s. This area, between Gatsby’s extravagant house in West Egg and the metropolis of New York, is home to people who are looked down upon - as shown by Tom’s condescending tone towards Wilson (“‘And if you feel that way about it, maybe I’d better sell it somewhere else after all.’”(25) - essentially a threat). The “valley of ashes” refers to the people who are burned out from trying to achieve the American Dream, and the ashes of their existence that remain near the booming metropolis that beckons to them so temptingly.
Fitzgerald, F. Scott. The Great Gatsby. New York: Charles Scribner's Sons, 1925. Print. (25-27)
Why is Myrtle Wilson so adamant of her right to say Daisy’s name?
Before Tom breaks Myrtle’s nose, they have an argument regarding Myrtle’s right to say Daisy’s name. This is “some time toward midnight” (37) after a substantial amount of drinking and a lot of activity. The protagonist knows that Myrtle and Tom both do not like who they are married to, and Catherine tells him that “‘Tom’s the first sweetie she ever had’” (35). Earlier, Myrtle describes her first meeting with Tom, ending with saying that “‘you can’t live forever; you can’t live forever’”. From these statements it is assumed that Myrtle is a daring, adventurous type of person, which is why she has an affair with Tom to begin with.
During the argument, Fitzgerald calls Myrtle by the more formal name of “Mrs. Wilson” instead of “Myrtle”, emphasizing her marriage instead of her role as a mistress. Myrtle’s daring, uncompromising attitude is revealed when she refuses to stop saying Daisy’s name, saying that “‘[she’ll] say it whenever [she] wants to!’”(37). Knowing that this causes pain to Tom, as they both dislike their marriages, this is probably a side effect of the alcohol affecting Myrtle’s speech. However, this also shows that Tom still carries affection towards Daisy. Myrtle could have been testing the waters regarding Tom’s feelings by saying Daisy’s name - if Tom had no feelings, he would have disregarded the name and not been as angry as he was. Instead, Tom reacted violently and physically hurt Myrtle, acknowledging that Daisy's name still had meaning to him.
Fitzgerald, F. Scott. The Great Gatsby. New York: Charles Scribner's Sons, 1925. Print. (35-37)
Closing
Due to Gatsby’s fame and wealth, he is able to bypass certain laws, as shown with his conversation with the policeman. To what extent does wealth allow a person to be above the law in our modern era?
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