What does my teacher mean by this?
So I'm writing an essay on the great gatsby and I told my teacher about it via emai. (I'm doing online school) and this is what he told me...
Also, make sure you develop the theme more than merely "mortality." I always tell my students that something like "mortality" is more of a topic than a theme. What about "mortality"?
what does he mean on that? How can I expand it? English teachers out there... help?
Your instructor is asking you to tell what this author's view of mortality is. Is it to be dreaded? Welcomed? Dark and sinister? etc.
Your teacher is emphasizing the importance of developing the theme of your essay on The Great Gatsby beyond just the broad concept of "mortality." They are suggesting that "mortality" is too general and should be treated as more of a topic rather than a complete theme.
To expand on the theme of mortality, you can consider various angles and perspectives related to death, the fear of death, or the fleeting nature of life as portrayed in The Great Gatsby. Here are a few suggestions on how to develop this theme further:
1. Explore the symbolism: Look for symbols related to mortality in the novel, such as the Valley of Ashes, the decay of the American Dream, the death of the characters, or the ephemeral nature of the extravagant parties.
2. Analyze character mortality: Examine how different characters in The Great Gatsby face mortality differently. Explore their attitudes towards death, the consequences of their actions, and how their mortality impacts their decisions and relationships.
3. Contrast life and death: Compare the vibrant, excessive lifestyle depicted in the novel to the underlying theme of mortality. Discuss how the characters' pursuit of pleasure and materialism clashes with the inevitable reality of death.
4. Investigate the moral decay: Consider how mortality is connected to moral decay in The Great Gatsby. Discuss how characters' desires for wealth and status lead to moral corruption, ultimately reflecting the mortality of their values and dreams.
5. Analyze Fitzgerald's writing style: Explore how F. Scott Fitzgerald's use of language, symbolism, and imagery helps convey the theme of mortality. Examine specific passages or quotes that highlight mortality-related themes and analyze their deeper meanings.
Remember to support your ideas with evidence from the novel, such as quotes and specific examples, to enrich your analysis and strengthen your argument. It is also advisable to review any additional guidelines or specific expectations your teacher provided for the essay.