Chapter 1 - Analysis Flashcards
What is the quotation where Nick is recalling his father’s advice?
“Just remember that all the people in the world haven’t had the advantages you’ve had”
What are 3 ways you can analyse Nick’s father’s advice?
Nick states he doesn’t judge
“Advantages” relates to wealth and social status of his family
Nick suggests other wealthy people are snobby
What 2 factors further emphasise Nick’s background?
Family history
Privileged education
What revelation is significant about Nick’s background? Why?
He fought in WW1
The event disrupted the society’s order of rich/poor, as all men fought
Why is the 20s referred to as the “roaring 20s”?
Many people made their fortunes in NY
How were new money described by old money?
New money lacked social refinement
How is the rivalry of old and new money illustrated?
East and West Egg face each other
Why is Nick living in East Egg significant? What position does this leave Nick in?
Nick’s old money background contrasts from his neighbourhood
Nick is split between the 2 worlds
How does Nick describe Gatsby’s mansion?
“A colossal affair by any standard”
What does Nick’s suggestion of Gatsby’s mansion suggest? What do the old money think?
West Egg people make up for refinement with materalism
It is tacky
What is Tom wearing when Nick arrives to dinner? What is significant out about the clothes?
“Riding clothes”
It signifies him as part of “old money”
What is significant about what Tom is doing?
Horse riding is a hobby of the “old money”
How is Tom presented as a character?
Unlikeable
What is significant about Jordan? What does it suggest about her class?
She is full of boredom
“Old money” money is unfulfilling
What is significant about Jordan’s contempt of West Egg?
It highlights the snobby attitudes of the East Egg
Why is Tom suggesting everyone should read The Rise of the Coloured Empires?
To help protect the “dominant race”
Why is Tom’s racist outburst significant? Why is this significant to context and how old money felt?
It shows that Tom is hate-filled and prejudice, despite his attempts to mask it
The 20s were a time of social change, leaving “old money” insecure about love
Why is the revelation of Tom’s mistress significant? Why is this a criticism to the “old money”?
Shows Tom as hypocritical
Tom wants to show off his family, but has a deep secret
What does Nick see Gatsby do? What does Nick see?
Stretch “out his arms towards the dark water in a curious way”
“Single green light”
How does Nick present Gatsby? What do we later learn about him?
A mysterious character
He is a character trying to fulfil an unachievable dream
