The Great Gatsby: Chapters 2-6 Summary

Comprehensive question-and-answer flashcards covering plot points, characters, symbols, and themes across Chapters 2 through 6 of The Great Gatsby.

Where does Tom take Nick to meet his mistress Myrtle Wilson in Chapter 2?

At her husband's garage in the Valley of Ashes.

Why does Tom break Myrtle's nose during the Manhattan apartment party in Chapter 2?

For saying Daisy's name.

What does the Valley of Ashes symbolize according to the Chapter 2 notes?

The moral decay of the rich.

What does Tom's violence in Chapter 2 demonstrate?

The brutal entitlement of "old money."

Which new characters are introduced in Chapter 2?

Myrtle Wilson (mistress), George Wilson (husband), and Catherine (Myrtle's sister).

Whom does Nick meet drunk in the library during Gatsby's party in Chapter 3?

Owl Eyes.

What event happens as Nick leaves Gatsby's party in Chapter 3?

A car crash.

What does Gatsby's party in Chapter 3 highlight about the Jazz Age elite and Gatsby himself?

It highlights the shallow, careless nature of the Jazz Age elite, while Gatsby remains isolated despite the crowd.

Which new characters are introduced in Chapter 3?

Jay Gatsby (formally), Owl Eyes, and Ewing Klipspringer.

Who is the shady gambler that Nick and Gatsby have lunch with in Chapter 4?

Meyer Wolfsheim.

What truth does Jordan Baker tell Nick about Gatsby and Daisy in Chapter 4?

Gatsby and Daisy were in love years ago, but she married Tom for money.

What key facts about Gatsby's wealth and personal life are confirmed in Chapter 4?

Confirmation that Gatsby's wealth is criminal, and the backstory of Gatsby's obsession with Daisy is revealed.

What clumsy incident happens during Gatsby and Daisy's awkward initial reunion at Nick's house?

Gatsby knocks over a clock.

What does Gatsby do during the tour of his mansion that makes Daisy cry?

He throws his shirts on the bed.

What core theme does Daisy's reaction to Gatsby's shirts prove in Chapter 5?

Daisy's tears over the shirts prove her deep superficiality.

What desire of Gatsby's is identified as the most important element of Chapter 5?

Gatsby's desire to stop time and recreate the past.

What is Jay Gatsby's true original identity and background revealed in Chapter 6?

James Gatz, a poor farm boy who reinvented himself after working for a wealthy man named Dan Cody.

How do Tom and Daisy react when attending Gatsby's party in Chapter 6?

Tom is disgusted and Daisy is bored, leaving Gatsby crushed.

What social divide is highlighted as the most important theme in Chapter 6?

The unbridgeable gap between Gatsby's "new money" and Tom/Daisy's "old money."