SHORT ESSAYS

Before we leave The Great Gatsby, there are a few more elements of the novel that deserve consideration. Select one topic from each area and compose a short essay response. Your answers should have a clear thesis, incorporate specific details or quotations from the novel for support, and be no less than 300 words each.

Structure:

1. The novel’s action occurs in 1922 between June and September. How does Nick’s non-chronological narration shape your response to the events surrounding the mystery of Jay Gatsby?
2. Explain how Fitzgerald uses setting to emphasize the differences between the social classes.

Character:

1. Nick believes he is an honest, non-judgemental narrator. Do you agree?
2. Perhaps the novel’s climax occurs when Gatsby confronts Tom in New York. Did Daisy’s ultimate choice surprise you? Is it consistent with her character?
3. Compare and contrast the characters of Tom and Gatsby.

Theme:

1. Fitzgerald wrote, “You don’t write because you want to say something, you write because you have something to say.” What did he have to say in Gatsby?
2. Debate that The Great Gatsby illustrates the theme of the American dream being corrupted by the desire for wealth.

Technique: (you must answer this one)

1. How does Fitzgerald foreshadow the tragedies at the end?

Compose your essays in a document titled “Gatsby Final.” You should follow MLA guidelines for formatting your document. Before submitting, proofread carefully for any grammatical or sentence structure errors. Remember, each response must meet a minimum word count or will not be considered.Compose your essays in a document titled “Gatsby Final.” You should follow MLA guidelines for formatting your document. Before submitting, proofread carefully for any grammatical or sentence structure errors. Remember, each response must meet a minimum word count or will not be considered.