The Great Gatsby Movie Discussion Questions?
Compare and contrast Gatsby's social class with that of Tom and Daisy Buchanan. How does geography contribute to the definintion of social class in The Great Gatsby? What part of his past is Gatsby trying to recapture? Is he successful? is there a person, feeling or event in your past that you'd want to visit?
I don't understand what is the question: Discuss Fitzgerald's use of symbols, such as the eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg, the green light on Daisy's dock and the valley of ashe
To answer the question, "Discuss Fitzgerald's use of symbols, such as the eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg, the green light on Daisy's dock, and the valley of ashes," you should start by analyzing the role of these symbols in The Great Gatsby and how they contribute to the overall themes and messages of the novel.
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to approach this question:
1. Identify the symbols: Begin by identifying the symbols mentioned in the question - the eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg, the green light on Daisy's dock, and the valley of ashes. These symbols are recurring motifs throughout the novel.
2. Understand their significance: Each symbol represents a different aspect of the characters' lives and the society depicted in the novel. The eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg, for example, symbolize the loss of spiritual values and the moral decay of society. The green light on Daisy's dock represents Gatsby's aspirations and desires, as well as the distance between him and his dreams. The valley of ashes symbolizes the moral and social decay of the American Dream.
3. Analyze their impact: Analyze how these symbols contribute to the themes and messages of the novel. For instance, the eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg reflect the characters' inability to see beyond their own selfish desires and the corruption of the American Dream. The green light represents the elusive nature of the American Dream and the desire for wealth and social status. The valley of ashes serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of the pursuit of materialism and the hollowness of the upper class.
4. Provide examples and evidence: Support your analysis by providing specific examples from the novel to demonstrate how these symbols are used. Quote relevant passages or describe key scenes where these symbols are mentioned or depicted. This will strengthen your argument and show a deeper understanding of the text.
5. Connect with the broader themes: Make connections between the symbols and the broader themes of the novel, such as the corruption of the American Dream, the illusion of wealth and happiness, and the emptiness of the upper-class society. Discuss how these symbols contribute to the overall critique of the Jazz Age and the moral decline of the characters.
By following these steps and providing a thorough analysis of the symbols, you will be able to discuss Fitzgerald's use of symbols in The Great Gatsby and how they contribute to the deeper meaning of the novel.