Character Complexity Snapshots

Outward vs. inward sides of Nick Carraway?

Outwardly observant and moral; inwardly judgmental and fascinated by wealth.

What makes Nick complex?

Torn between attraction to glamour and disgust at its corruption.

Quote that reveals Nick’s hypocrisy?

“I’m inclined to reserve all judgments” — yet he constantly judges.

How is Gatsby introduced?

Through rumor and reputation — mysterious, admired, unreachable.

What defines Gatsby inwardly?

Lonely idealist chasing an illusion (Daisy and the dream).

What duality defines Gatsby’s character?

He symbolizes both the hope and corruption of the American Dream.

Daisy’s outward image vs. inward reality?

Outwardly graceful and angelic; inwardly cynical and trapped

What does Daisy’s “beautiful fool” line reveal?

Awareness of gender limitations — values ignorance as protection.

What does the daisy flower symbolize?

White petals (purity) around gold center (corruption/materialism).

Why is Daisy complex?

She knows her life is a lie but lacks courage to change it — uses charm to survive.

How is Tom described physically and symbolically?

“A cruel body” — strength masking inner insecurity and moral decay.

What does Tom represent in the novel?

The decayed American aristocracy — privilege without purpose.

Example of his moral corruption?

Abuses power, hits Myrtle, treats people as property.

How does Myrtle contrast with Daisy?

Myrtle = raw, bodily, striving; Daisy = ethereal, passive.

What motivates Myrtle’s affair with Tom?

Desperation for social mobility and glamour.

What is Myrtle’s tragic flaw?

Belief she can rise through imitation of the upper class.

Symbolism of Myrtles name?

Myrtle = flower linked to love and death → foreshadows her fate.