University:
Capital University
Course:
ENGL 150 | Introduction to Literature
Academic year:

2023
Views:

353

Pages:

2
Author:

Derrick Fitzpatrick

GATSBY STUDY QUESTIONS and VOCABULARY PACKET The following questions are a combination of comprehension/knowledge level questions and interpretive level questions. Answering them will help prepare you for class discussion, quizzes, and the final test for the unit. CHAPTER TWO 1. How does Nick meet Tom’s mistress? Nick meets Tom's mistress, Myrtle Wilson, when Tom takes him to the city and they stop at George Wilson's garage for gas. Myrtle is introduced to Nick at this time 2. How does Myrtle react to Tom’s arrival? Myrtle reacts eagerly and excitedly to Tom's arrival, demonstrating her desire for his attention and affection 3. Describe George Wilson. How does he react to Tom’s arrival? George Wilson is described as a "blond, spiritless man, anemic and faintly handsome." He reacts to Tom's arrival with a sense of deference and submission, indicating his subordinate position compared to Tom 4. How does Myrtle behave as the party progresses? As the party progresses, Myrtle becomes more flirtatious and bold, openly challenging Tom's wife Daisy and flaunting her relationship with Tom 5. Describe the setting of the valley of ashes where George and Myrtle live. What aspects of the setting imply that it is intended to have a symbolic meaning as well as a literal one? The valley of ashes is described as a desolate and industrial wasteland, characterized by gray landscapes, ash heaps, and the presence of looming industrial structures. This setting serves as a symbol of moral decay, corruption, and the destructive effects of the pursuit of wealth and social status 6. How does Fitzgerald describe Myrtle Wilson? Does her physical appearance reflect her character in any way? Fitzgerald describes Myrtle Wilson as voluptuous and sensual, with a "thickish figure" and "piercing eyes." Her physical appearance reflects her character as someone who is bold, assertive, and unapologetic in her pursuit of pleasure and social advancement 7. Compare the setting of the party in this chapter with the setting of the party in Chapter One. The setting of the party in Chapter Two contrasts with the elegant and refined atmosphere of the party in Chapter One. The party in Chapter Two takes place in a rundown apartment in the city, surrounded by the bleakness of the valley of ashes, while the party in Chapter One is held in the luxurious and opulent mansion of Daisy and Tom Buchanan 8. Why does Tom attach Myrtle at the end of the party? How does this exemplify Fitzgerald’s description of Tom in Chapter One? Tom attacks Myrtle at the end of the party after she taunts and provokes him. This exemplifies Fitzgerald's description of Tom in Chapter One as someone with a "cruel body" and a "supercilious manner," demonstrating his violent and controlling nature