1. The Great Gatsby

2.  Writing reflects dreams and insecurities he experienced in his own life.  Grew up in a country-club setting in Minnesota ◦ -embarrassed by his mother’s immigrant background and father’s career failures. -Attended Princeton, never graduated, joined the army and fell in love with Zelda.

3.  All about $$$: Zelda would not marry Fitzgerald because he could not support her.  Finally married after success of first novel, lived a glamorous lifestyle, but it did not last for long (1920-1930).  Zelda suffered mental collapse in 1930, and Fitzgerald was drinking heavily.

4.  Written in early 20s while Fitzgerald/Zelda lived in Great Neck, Long Island.  Setting of the novel was modeled after his own surroundings and lifestyle.  Major Characters: -Nick Carraway- narrator, moves to West Egg to a home that is next door to a mysterious rich man (Gatsby) -Gatsby- acquired wealth in questionable way, throws huge parties hoping his love will return

5.  Major Characters (cont’d): ◦ -Daisy- had the long of the young and poor Gatsby, lives across the water from Gatsby with her wealthy husband (Tom Buchanan).

6.  The book paints a picture of our world, the American world, with clearer eyes than anything ever before. ◦ Accurately depicts time period ◦ Soap opera ◦ Major/minor themes are still relevant today American Dream -to most this is money, but Gatsby conveys that something other than wealth matters…