Symbols and Motifs Flashcards
1
Q
The Green Light
A
A guiding light to Gatsby’s goals, represents Gatsby’s hopes and dreams for the future
2
Q
The Valley of Ashes
A
Desolate land created by the dumping of industrial ashes. Represents moral and social decay that results for the pursuit of wealth, the plight of the poor
3
Q
The eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg
A
Painted on an old advertising board over the Valley. Represents God looking down upon and judging America society
4
Q
Weather (Gatsby and Daisy)
A
- Gatsby and Daisy’s reunion in the rain is awkward and melancholy
- But their love reawakens when the sun comes out
5
Q
Weather (Confrontation)
A
Gatsby’s climactic confrontation with Tom occurs on the hottest day of the summer
6
Q
Weather (Gatsby’s death)
A
- Wilson kills Gatsby on the first day of Autumn, Gatsby floats on the pool with a chill
- Symbolic of Gatbsy trying to stop time and restore his relationship with Daisy
7
Q
Geography
A
Division between East and West Egg
8
Q
Colour (Gold)
A
- Represents wealth and privilege
- Daisy, Jordan, and Tom are surrounded, clothed, and often described as golden
9
Q
Colour (Yellow)
A
- Gatsby is associated with yellow: a fake gold
- Gatsby will never belong to the wealthy society he wants to inhabit
10
Q
Colour (Green)
A
- Symbolised green and envy
- Gatsby’s yearning for a society that’ll never accept him
