The Great Gatsby Chapters 1 & 2

Front

What is the 'valley of ashes' in The Great Gatsby?

Back

It is the industrial section that separates the fashionable West and East Eggs from Manhattan. It's gray and covered in ashes/soot from all the factories in the area.

Front

What unflattering feature of Jordan Baker's personality is revealed in Chapter 2?

Back

She is a gossip queen and seems to take a small amount of pleasure in Daisy's pain in this scene.

Front

What is Nick's social class/background?

Back

He is upper-middle class. His family has money, but not at the level of the Buchanan family.

Front

What does Miss Baker tell Nick about Tom?

Back

Tom is having an affair.

Front

From where did the narrator come and why?

Back

From the Midwest to study the bond business.

Front

What does the valley of ashes symbolize in the novel?

Back

It symbolizes the moral and social decay resulting from the uninhibited pursuit of wealth.

Front

How does Tom Buchanan's character reflect the theme of class disparity?

Back

Tom represents the old money elite, showcasing arrogance and entitlement, contrasting with characters from lower social classes.

Front

What role does Nick Carraway serve in the story?

Back

Nick serves as the narrator and a moral compass, providing insight into the lives of the other characters.

Front

What is the significance of the green light at the end of Daisy's dock?

Back

The green light symbolizes Gatsby's hopes and dreams for the future, particularly his desire for Daisy.

Front

How does Fitzgerald use symbolism in The Great Gatsby?

Back

Fitzgerald uses symbols like the valley of ashes, the green light, and the eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg to convey deeper meanings about society and the American Dream.