Chapter 1-2 Great Gatbsy

What does Tom Buchanan discuss that shows his racist ideologies? Why does he want to believe these theories are scientific or accurate?

He discusses a book he read called Rise of the Colored Empires that talked about how white people are the superior race and must look out for themselves because if they dont they will take over. He wanted to be able to justify his bigotry and racism.

3. What behaviors or actions on the part of Nick and Gatsby are symbolic?

The green light = jealousy, money

The distance = they dont know each other/ the distance between the characters. Nick desires to get closer and learn more about Gatsby. They do not know each other (yet).

4. What is the effect of the phrase "unquiet darkness"?

Unsettling, uncomfortable

Why does Fitzgerald include his description of the Valley of Ashes, the trash dump next to East and West Egg?

Represents lower classes suffering from upper class actions

Why does Fitzgerald say that Doctor T.J. Eckleberg's eyes "brood on over the solemn dumping ground"?

Showing new consumerism as new god materialism/comercialism

What was the advice given to Nick by his father? How does Nick interpret this advice?

"Whenever you feel like criticizing anyone just remember that all the people in this world haven't had the advantages that you've had.". This advice is snobish. Lower class = less than

Daisy says of her daughter, "I hope she'll be a fool that's the biggest thing a girl can be in this world, a beautiful little fool."What does this quote reveal about women's place in this society?

Women are valuable only for their looks/beauty. She wishes she will be a fool so she wont realize her intelligence has no place and will be much happier.

"Something was making him nibble at the edge of stale ideas as if his sturdy physical egotism no longer nourished his peremptory heart."What does Nick's comment about Tom suggest?

He is trying to relive his glory days .Tom is no longer satisfied with his life. Peaked in college and wants to relive that.

Based on his tone, what can the reader infer about Nick's feelings about Tom?

Nick dislikes Tom. He thinks he is egotistical and may have a tendency to be violent.Fearful for daisy

1. What impression of Gatsby is suggested by the phrase "come out to determine what share was his of our local heavens"?

Gatsby is a powerful man who knows what he wants. Very certain about his status and future successes. Determined, confident.

What attitude characterizes the opinions Tom's acquaintances have regarding his affair with Myrtle?

They dislike that he takes her around and is not secretive lack of discretion

Myrtle buys a dog that the reader gets the sense she cannot really take proper care of. What theme in the novel does this detail illuminate?

Casual negligence towards others

At Mrs. Wilson's New York apartment, an elevator boy goes for milk and biscuits, "one of which decomposed apathetically in the saucer of milk all afternoon." What is the best explanation for Fitzgerald's inclusion of this detail?

Reinforces carelessness, moral laxness, doesnt care about dog. Nick = only one to notice dog

What overwhelming feeling does the reader get when being introduced to Tom and Myrtle's hideout?

Claustrophobic. Makes it feel like the room is smaller than it actually is.