The Great Gatsby Study Questions

Chapter 1

1.       Who is the narrator of this book? List details about the narrator and the narration

The narrator of The Great Gatsby is Nick Carraway. It is written in first person and Carraway seems to think quite highly of himself, or at least – he believes that he has high standards, generally as he graduated from Yale.

2.       What advice does Nick’s father give him?

Nick’s father gives him advice to not to make criticisms or judgements of people because they may not have had the same advantages that he has had.

3.       What is the result of Nick reserving judgements about people?

Nick's ability to reserve judgment kept him in the know of whatever was happening, allowing other characters to trust in him. Theoretically, it should also allow for a more impartial narrative.

4.       Explain fully how nick describes Gatsby

Nick describes Gatsby as sensitive with a ‘gift for hope’; he says that Gatsby was exempt from his anger towards other people who involved him in their personal lives and that he has a desire to be a better person.

5.       Describe the house Nick rents and compare it to Gatsby’s house

Nick’s house is described as a “weather-beaten cardboard bungalow” compared to how Gatsby’s house is described as much more grand and immoderate.

6.       Describe the difference between East and West Egg

East Egg is the place where people of a higher social standing live in their larger, more fashionable mansions or houses whereas West Egg, which is where Nick lives – is a lot less elitist. Nick tells the reader that the only two aspects that are comparable are their shape and size.

7.       How does Nick know Daisy and Tom Buchanan?

Nick knows Daisy because she is his cousin and he knows Tom from his time at Yale.

8.       How is Tom described?

Tom is described as having a “hard mouth” as well as “arrogant eyes” and a “cruel body” which provides the reader with a strong picture of Tom’s physical being. His wealth is also emphasized by Nick’s admiration for it.

9.       How is Daisy described?

Daisy comes across as quite flirtatious and also quite vain; however this does not make the reader perceive her as a ‘bad character’ as she also has an air of ridiculousness and charm.

10.   Who is Jordan Blake? Describe her fully

Jordan Blake is Daisy’s friend and she is also a golfer and a potential love interest for Nick.

11.   Why is it significant that Daisy mentions her bruised finger?

Daisy mentioning her bruised finger is significant as it could suggest that she is involved in an abusive relationship with Tom, whose appearance was described in a way that makes him appear to be quite intimidating.

12.   To whom is Jordan acquainted in West Egg?

Jordan was acquainted with Gatsby in West Egg when she attended his party.

13.   What is significant about the phone call Tom receives?

The phone call that Tom receives is significant because he is having an affair with the person on the phone. Jordan mentions his affair as if it is nothing which implies that it is usual for Tom to cheat on his partner.

14.   When daisy learned she had given birth to a daughter, she said, “I’m glad it’s a girl. And I hope she’ll be a fool – that’s the best thing a girl can be in this world, a beautiful little fool.” Why does Daisy say this?

Daisy says this because she believes that by wishing foolishness upon her daughter, she is wishing the best for her, as the society of the time made it so that women could only succeed if they are dim-witted and good looking.

15.   What is Nick’s response when Daisy and Tom ask about his engagement?

When Daisy and Tom ask about his engagement, Nick tells them that it it’s a rumour, that it’s untrue.

Chapter 2

1.       To what does the ‘valley of ashes’ refer?

The ‘valley of ashes’ refers to the area which leads to New York alongside the railroad line. It is called this because it is dreary and bleak compared to East and West Egg.

2.       Why is Dr. T. J. Eckelburg significant?

The advertisement for Dr. T. J. Eckelburg’s practices is significant because it mainly consists of a large pair of eyes which makes it seem as if it is watching the people below it, even though it has not got any other distinct facial features apart from its glasses.

3.       Describe Tom Buchanan’s mistress. What do her actions reveal about her?

Tom’s mistress is quite dissimilar to Daisy, physically speaking as Daisy is quite slender and delicate; Myrtle comes across as a lot stronger and domineering through her “thicker” physique and “smouldering” qualities which also imply her power, although her actions make her appear superficial.

4.       Who is George Wilson? Describe him

George Wilson is depicted as highly working-class as he works in a ‘gas station’ and he is the husband of Myrtle. The fact that he cleans his hands with rubbish suggests that he could be quite uncouth which may be an explanation for Myrtle’s desire for the upper classes. He is described as ‘faintly handsome’, which would have appealed to Myrtle’s superficial nature.

5.       Describe the apartment in New York. What does it reveal about Myrtle?

The apartment reflects Myrtle’s desire to be part of the middle-class although not having the ability to grasp it properly, this is shown in the furniture which is overly fussy and it is as if it is trying to be something that it is not – just like Myrtle.

6.       Describe Nick’s state of mind while at the apartment

Nick appears to be preoccupied throughout his time at the apartment and on multiple occasions he thinks about leaving but he doesn’t. For the majority of the time, nick is drunk and distracted.

7.       Who are the guests that Myrtle invites to the apartment? Describe them?

The guests that Myrtle invites into the apartment are Mr and Mrs McKee and Catherine, Myrtle’s sister. Catherine is quite materialistic, Mrs McKee is describes as “shrill, languid, handsome and horrible”, and Mr McKee is described as more effeminate which is reflected in his work as a photographer and artist.

8.       What does Catherine say about Gatsby?

Catherine says that Gatsby is related to Kaiser Wilhelm which is why he has so much wealth.

9.       Why Does Tom mention a letter of introduction?

Tom mentions a letter of introduction as a way of demeaning the lower class nature of both George Wilson and Mr McKee.

10.   Why does Myrtle say she married George?

Myrtle says that she married George because she initially thought of him as somewhat of a ‘gentleman’, however after the marriage and she learns of his class status, she sees him as ‘unworthy’.

11.   Why does Tom hit Myrtle, breaking her nose?

Tom hits Myrtle, breaking her nose because she says Daisy’s name multiple times whilst arguing with Tom about whether or not she has the right to be saying Daisy’s name.

12.   Where does Nick go when he leaves the gathering, with whom?

Nick goes with Mr McKee when he leaves – he first goes with Mr McKee to his house before going back to his own house in West Egg.

Chapter 3

1.       Describe preparations for Gatsby’s parties

The preparations for Gatsby’s parties are described as histrionic in their extravagance, e.g. full orchestra, etc.

2.       Describe Gatsby’s party guests. In general how do they behave?

Gatsby’s party guests are described in quite a negative way, as most of them are having affairs and generally acting irresponsibly and many of the guests are uninvited.

3.       What rumours are discussed among the guests attending Gatsby’s party?

Rumours that are discussed at Gatsby’s party include whether or not Gatsby has killed a man or whether he was a German spy.

4.       Who is Owl Eyes?

‘Owl eyes’ is an uninvited guest to Gatsby’s party who wears big glasses and is interested in books.

5.       Describe how Nick meets Gatsby

Nick meets Gatsby as a stranger who he fought with in WWI.

6.       Describe Gatsby’s appearance. How does it fit with Nick’s expectations?

Gatsby’s appearance does not meet with Nick’s expectations of ‘fat and middle aged’ as he is actually young and good-looking

7.       To whom does Gatsby speak privately and why?

Gatsby speaks privately with Jordan although we do not know why.

8.       What happens to Owl Eyes after the party?

Owl Eyes gets into a car accident after the party.

9.       How does Nick feel about Jordan?

Nick has a love interest for Jordan.

10.   Describe Nick and Jordan’s conversation about driving, why is this significant?

Nick accuses Jordan of being a hazardous driver. Jordan comes back with ‘it takes two to make an accident’ which suggests that people aren’t taking accountability for their own actions.

11.   What does Nick say about cardinal virtues? Why is this ironic?

Nick says that his cardinal virtue is his honest which is ironic because he is continually dishonest.

Chapter 4

1.       The main topic of conversation at Gatsby’s home is Gatsby. What additional information is added to the list of rumours?

More rumours about Gatsby are that he sells illegal alcohol and that he is second cousin to the devil.

2.       What is the purpose of the detailed description of the guests?

These descriptions help the reader to easily identify the different social classes and how each of the characters acts immorally.

3.       Describe Gatsby’s car

Gatsby’s car is large and cream coloured as well as very extravagant.

4.       What does Gatsby tell Nick about himself?

Gatsby tells Nick that his family are all dead which is where his wealth comes from. He also tells Nick that he wished that he had died in the war, but instead he won a medal for his valour and bravery.

5.       What request does Gatsby make of Nick?

Gatsby asks Nick to let him use his house so that he can meet Daisy.

6.       Who and what does Nick observe as he I riding in Gatsby’s car? Why are they significant?

Nick sees the valley of ashes, Myrtle, some policemen which ignore Gatsby breaking the speed limit and a hearse; these are significant as they foreshadow future events.

7.       Who is Mr Wolfsheim? Describe him fully.

Mr. Wolfsheim is an illegitimate businessman associated with Gatsby, he seems uncomfortable in the ornate restaurant and his is clearly in admiration of Gatsby.

8.       Who does Nick recognise in the restaurant at lunch?

Nick recognises Tom at the restaurant.

9.       What story does Jordan tell Nick while having tea at the Plaza Hotel?

Jordan tells Nick about a soldier called Jay Gatsby who ‘wooed’ Daisy but her mother forbade her to go to New York to say goodbye to him. Eventually, Daisy married Tom, however before the ceremony; Daisy received a letter which we can only assume to be from Gatsby. Daisy then got drunk and changed her mind about marrying Tom. When she became sober, the wedding went on as planned.

10.   What is significant about Daisy’s pearls?

The pearls were Daisy’s wedding present from Tom which were very expensive, they are significant because they symbolise Tom’s wealth

11.   What incident is the first indication of Tom’s infidelity?

The first incident that could indicate Tom’s infidelity is when Tom has a car accident and a hotel chambermaid is in the car with him.

12.   Why does Gatsby throw parties?

Gatsby throws parties because he is hoping to find Daisy again; he hoped that someone would bring her along.

Chapter 5

1.       What preposition does Gatsby offer Nick?

Gatsby offers Nick work that could be illegal

2.       Why does Nick ask Daisy not to bring Tom to tea?

Nick asks Daisy not to bring Tom to tea because he is planning to reunite her with Gatsby, her lost love.

3.       What does the clock symbolize?

The clock symbolizes the passage of time and how it can be manipulated.

4.       What is Gatsby’s state of mind during the chapter?

Gatsby is quite inconsistent throughout the chapter, he is initially anxious, then embarrassed, then angry towards Nick and finally happy with Daisy.

5.       How long has it been since Daisy and Gatsby have seen one another?

It has been five years since Daisy and Gatsby have seen each other.

6.       What change does Nick notice in Gatsby after the reunion with Daisy?

Nick notices how much happier Gatsby becomes once he is reunited with Daisy.

7.       Who is Mr Klipspringer?

Mr Klipspringer is a friend of Gatsby’s who temporarily lives in Gatsby’s house.

8.       Why does Daisy cry?

Daisy cries because she regrets rejecting Gatsby previously now that she sees how successful he has become, although she says she is crying because she’s never seen such beautiful shirts.

9.       What is the significance of weather in the chapter?

The weather is significant because it acts as a pathetic fallacy, the fact that the chapter ends with rain could suggest that something bad is going to happen.

Chapter 6

1.       Who is James Gatz?

James Gatz is Gatsby’s real name.

2.       Who is Dan Cody? What is his relationship to Gatsby?

Dan Cody is a prospector and he hired Gatsby to travel with him by boat. Gatsby’s personal is shaped by Cody.

3.       What does Cody’s yacht represent?

Cody’s yacht represents possibility and potential to Gatsby.

4.       Who is Nick startled to see at Gatsby’s house?

Nick is startled to see Tom at Gatsby’s house.

5.       What is significant about the woman’s dinner invitation?

The woman’s dinner invitation is significant because it shows us how Gatsby is unaware that he is not wanted.

6.       How does Gatsby introduce Tom to the party guests?

Gatsby introduces Tom as ‘the polo player’ and continues to call him this, possibly to humiliate him.

7.       How does Tom suppose Gatsby has acquired his wealth?

Tom believes that Gatsby has earned his wealth through the illegal trade of alcohol.

8.       What does Nick think Gatsby wants from Daisy?

Nick thinks that Gatsby wants love from Daisy.

9.       What is the meaning of “formed a ladder and mounted to a secret place”

This phrase means that Gatsby has the possibility of “climbing” to a more equal social status as Daisy.

Chapter 7

1.       Why does Gatsby replace his servants?

Gatsby replaces his servants because he is worried that the current servants are gossiping about his affair with Daisy.

2.       How does the extremely hot weather relate to the characters?

The hot weather relates to the characters because each of the guests is feeling some extreme emotion, e.g. Daisy being anxious and Tom being quite angry.

3.       How does Gatsby describe Daisy’s voice?

Gatsby describes Daisy’s voice as being “full of money”.

4.       Describe the travel arrangements for driving to New York

Tom drives Gatsby’s car and Nick and Jordan are passengers, Gatsby drives Tom’s coupe with Daisy.

5.       What does Tom surmise about Gatsby and Daisy?

Tom surmises that Gatsby and Daisy are having an affair.

6.       Describe Tom’s interaction with Wilson at the gas station

Tom’s entire interaction with Wilson at the gas station is based on belittling him and making him feel bad about his social class and unfaithful wife.

7.       Why is Wilson ill?

Wilson is ill because he finds out that his wife is having an affair and the news makes him physically sick.

8.       Where does the group go in New York?

The group goes to the Plaza Hotel in New York.

9.       What event is occurring in the space below the hotel suite and why is it ironic?

A wedding is happening in the space below the hotel suite and this is ironic because Daisy’s marriage is being tested as her affair is revealed, just as a new marriage is starting.

10.   What does Gatsby angrily reveal to Tom?

Gatsby angrily reveals to Tom that Daisy never really loved him.

11.   Evaluate Daisy’s claim that she never loved Tom?

Daisy disagrees with her initial statement, and she says that she has loved Tom but she has also loved Gatsby.

12.   What is the “death car” and who is driving it?

The “death car” is Gatsby’s yellow car which is being driven by Daisy.

13.   What causes the accident, and what is the outcome?

Myrtle runs out into the traffic and is hit; her injury then leads to her death.

14.   Who does Wilson believe struck Myrtle? How does this idea change?

Wilson believes that Tom has hit Myrtle because when Tom was at the gas station before, he told Wilson that the car was his. This idea changes when Tom tells Wilson that the car is actually borrowed.

Chapter 8

1.       Five years earlier, how had Gatsby mislead Daisy?  Compare this to his real circumstances

Five years ago, Gatsby mislead Daisy by making her think that they were of an equal social status and that he could provide her with a secure life, however this was a lie because he was not from a good family and he couldn’t control his immediate future with much dexterity because of his work in the military.

2.       What compliment does Nick give to Gatsby?

Nick compliments Gatsby by telling him how highly he thinks of him.

3.       What role does Michaelis play?

Michaelis play a supportive role for Wilson before and after the death of his wife.

4.       What object does Wilson find that causes him to suspect that Myrtle is cheating?

Wilson finds an expensive dog leash and he is suspicious when Myrtle lies about it.

5.       What does Wilson think about God? What symbolizes his belief?

Wilson believes that no one can escape the judgement of God; this is symbolized through the eyes on the billboards advertising Dr T. J. Eckelburg which could represent God’s observation.

6.       Where is Wilson at half-past two the day after Myrtle dies? Why?

At half-past two the day after Myrtle dies, Wilson is in West Egg because he is trying to find Gatsby’s house due to the fact that he believes that he had an affair with Myrtle and subsequently killed her with his car.

7.       How does Gatsby spend his afternoon? What happens?

Gatsby spends his afternoon in his pool before he is shot by Wilson.

8.       What discovery does the gardener make?

The gardener discovers the body of Wilson after he has committed suicide.

Chapter 9

1.       How does the Media depict Wilson? Why is this ironic?

The media depicts Wilson as unstable and insane which is ironic because he was actually quite a calm person under normal circumstances.

2.       What does Nick want to assure Gatsby?

Nick wants to assure Gatsby that at least one other person will attend his funeral.

3.       How does Daisy react to the news of Gatsby’s death?

Daisy essentially ignores the news of Gatsby’s death and then moves away with Tom.

4.       How does Wolfsheim react to the news of Gatsby’s death?

Wolfsheim is shocked at the news of Gatsby’s death although he says he won’t go to the funeral because he would rather remain detached.

5.       Who is Henry C. Gatz?

Henry C. Gatz is Gatsby’s father.

6.       Why does Nick hang up on Klipspringer?

Nick hangs up on Klipspringer because he refuses to commit to attending Gatsby’s funeral, instead – all Klipspringer cares about is the tennis shoes that he may have left at Gatsby’s house.

7.       Describe Henry’s pride in his son

Henry Gatz’s pride in his son is measured by his financial success which shows that his relationship with his son is quite shallow and superficial; it shows that he did not know his son very well.

8.       Describe the schedule written in the back of Gatsby’s book. Why is it significant?

Gatsby’s schedule shows how he tried to control his own habits to achieve a higher class; this is significant because he may have been doing so to gain the approval of Daisy.

9.       Who unexpectedly attends the funeral?

Owl Eyes unexpectedly attends Gatsby’s funeral.

10.   What does Nick suggest that he, Gatsby, Tom, Daisy and Jordan have in common?

Nick suggests that they are all Westerners, making them “inadaptable to Eastern life”.

11.   How does Nick resolve his relationship with Jordan?

Nick tries to resolve his relationship with Jordan by meeting up with her and trying to fix things. Nick ends up finishing the relationship.

12.   Why won’t Nick initially shake Tom’s hand?

Nick doesn’t want to shake Tom’s hand because he is angry at the fact that Tom told Wilson that the car that killed Myrtle was Gatsby’s without taking responsibility.

13.   What is the significance of the green light?

The green light at the end of the dock is significant because Gatsby believed that it represented the hope that the future will be the one he dreamed of in the past.