The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Chapter Six Characterisation Gatsby, Daisy, Tom Theme American Upper Classes American Dream Structure Symbolism

Characterisation - Gatsby

Characterisation - Gatsby Chapter 6 is important in revealing detail about Gatsby’s character Reveals how sensitive he was when he was younger – until he meets Dan Cody Aware of his poverty, he develops a powerful obsession with amassing wealth.

“It was James Gatz who had been loafing along the beach that afternoon …but it was already Jay Gatsby who borrowed a row boat…” It is as if Gatsby is rechristening himself Symbolises his desire to forget his lower class identity and recast himself as the wealthy man he envisions.

Discussion: Is this why he finds Daisy so attractive? For her, wealth and luxury comes effortlessly She is the reason he invented Jay Gatsby. Links to STRUCTURE and SYMBOLISM “His parents were shiftless and unsuccessful farm people” Stark contrast to his later extravagant lifestyle.

DISCUSSION – What does Gatsby’s transformation tell us about the type of person he is? What do we admire about him?

We discover that Gatsby never received the money from Cody. It is Gatsby’s power to make his dreams real that makes him ‘great’.

“Can’t repeat the past. ” he cried incredulously “Can’t repeat the past?” he cried incredulously. “Why of course you can!” This illustrates his capacity to delude himself Also illustrates his boundless capacity for hope DISCUSSION: Does the quote influence our feelings towards Gatsby?

Characterisation - Daisy

CHARACTERISATION - DAISY “But the rest offended her...was appalled by West Egg,” DISCUSSION: Why is Daisy so appalled by the people at the party? Does her reaction come as a surprise to the reader?

The main problem with Gatsby’s conception of Daisy is that it is a dream. He still thinks she is the girl who loved him in Louisville But she would never desert her own class and background to be with Gatsby.

CHARACTERISATION - TOM “I may be old-fashioned in my ideas but women run around too much these days to suit me.” The reader sees how hypocritical Tom is being here considering his own behaviour DISCUSSION: In your opinion would Tom ever believe that Daisy would have an affair?

STRUCTURE When Gatsby reinvents himself he is transforming himself and Daisy into his ideal of radiant life and beauty.

STRUCTURE “Tom was evidently perturbed at Daisy’s running around alone” Tom’s concern is used to move the narrative along This exposes the suspicions of Tom that will eventually lead to confrontation

Symbolism The name ‘The Great Gatsby’ makes his almost seem like a magician. His reinvention is almost magical.

SYMBOLISM “Lake Superior” This is a realistic geographical detail but symbolic in a sense. Gatz must recreate himself as Gatsby in order to become superior and it is at this location that he does that.

THEME – Shallowness of the American Upper Classes “Mr Sloane didn’t enter into the conversation, but lounged back haughtily in his chair...” They treat Gatsby with contempt He has the money but lacks their superior social qualities (in their minds) Even among the very rich there are class distinctions

DISCUSSION: Think about Gatsby’s treatment and actions towards his guests (the Sloanes). What do they reveal about his character?

THEME – American Dream “Can’t repeat the past?” he cried incredulously. “Why of course you can!” Gatsby’s future is an attempt at restoring a golden moment from his past rather than something new. Historically, early American settlers felt that the New World offered them the opportunity to return to the Garden of Eden

The concept of an ideal future is often a form of nostalgia for a Golden Age. An age that supposedly existed in the distant past. DISCUSSION: Can Gatsby’s dream ever come true?

Well-done!!!!