Tuesday 23 October 2012
Group 1 - Question 5
Gatsby meets Daisy's child. Explain the scene and its significance in the novel and consider this using several critical lenses.
Answer:
In chapter 7, Gatsby finally has the opportunity to meet Daisy's child, Pammy, as they (Tom, Daisy, Nick, Jordan, and himself) join each other for a luncheon on a hot summer day. It is described that Gastby “kept looking at the child with surprise” (Page 117). It is also mentioned that Nick doesn't think Gatsby “had ever really believed in [the child’s] existence before” (Page 117). Throughout the scene, Gatsby actually doesn't say anything at all...he was shocked silent.
This is scene is significant because Gatsby’s surprised reaction indicates how he is unhappy with the introduction of yet another obstacle in his way of acquiring Daisy for himself. He is unhappy because the bond of a child between Tom and Daisy doesn't fit in with his version of “The American Dream”. Gatsby, in fact, everybody, wants an easy way to achieve their dreams and goals and nobody likes it when obstacles (such as a child) or people (Tom, in Gatsby’s case) slow you down.
That’s the more obvious reason as to why Gatsby was so shocked and surprised. Although, if we were to look at it from a Psychoanalytic Lens, there is more depth to Gatsby’s dazed expression. It can be observed that he may actually be jealous of Daisy’s child because she is where he wants to be (this is his ID kicking in). He doesn't say much at all, revealing his repressed want of Daisy. The ID is the part of the mind that holds all these repressed feelings and it is also responsible for making people believe that something they WANT, is something they NEED.
At the same time, if we looked at this scene through a Marxist Lens, we would notice and realize that Daisy’s child represents the rich childhood he never had, and tried his best to get away from. Gatsby grew up quite poor and he wanted to make something of himself that would somehow rid him of his past, and make others overlook it. Daisy had Pammy all dressed up because she wanted to “show [her] off” to Nick and Gatsby. Gatsby never had anything to show off as a child in the lower class. This could also be a reason that he continuously holds extravagant parties at his success of a mansion; it brings him to a higher class.
Vandana
Labels: Gatsby, Daisy
group 5 - question?
Nick meets Jordan Baker and says, "Almost any exhibition of complete self sufficiency draws a stunned tribute from me." Explain what this means and why this is relevant to the novel.
At their first encounter, Nick is surprised by Jordan's calm composure and self confidence. He quickly develops a sense of respect and admiration for Jordan, because she is fairly different from the other girls in society.
In the novel, Jordan serves as a character foil to Daisy. Daisy is a typical girl from the upper class, corrupted by her riches, displaying a flair for drama and extravagance. In comparison, Jordan is sporty, independent and mature.
From a feminist point of view, it can be shown that Daisy has the role of the domestic wife while her husband Tom is the head of the family. One assumes that Daisy herself does not hold a profession as it is unmentioned in the novel. As a mother though, Daisy does not express much maternal feelings as “she added irrelevantly: You ought to see the baby.” Daisy’s name in itself represents one of nature which displays the unruly and wild side of her personality.
Jordan herself plays an individual sport, holding a job as a professional golfer and making her own income. Single, Jordan carries herself with maturity and poise. Her gender neutral name demonstrates that her character is one that is dominant and strong. Jordan’s boy-ish style also mirrors the masculine fashion that women were emulating in the 20s as they evolved in society’s culture and entered the workplace.
Daisy, Jordan
At their first encounter, Nick is surprised by Jordan's calm composure and self confidence. He quickly develops a sense of respect and admiration for Jordan, because she is fairly different from the other girls in society.
In the novel, Jordan serves as a character foil to Daisy. Daisy is a typical girl from the upper class, corrupted by her riches, displaying a flair for drama and extravagance. In comparison, Jordan is sporty, independent and mature.
From a feminist point of view, it can be shown that Daisy has the role of the domestic wife while her husband Tom is the head of the family. One assumes that Daisy herself does not hold a profession as it is unmentioned in the novel. As a mother though, Daisy does not express much maternal feelings as “she added irrelevantly: You ought to see the baby.” Daisy’s name in itself represents one of nature which displays the unruly and wild side of her personality.
Jordan herself plays an individual sport, holding a job as a professional golfer and making her own income. Single, Jordan carries herself with maturity and poise. Her gender neutral name demonstrates that her character is one that is dominant and strong. Jordan’s boy-ish style also mirrors the masculine fashion that women were emulating in the 20s as they evolved in society’s culture and entered the workplace.
Daisy, Jordan
Group 5 -Question 5.
“What has Gatsby been doing in the time between the close of Chapter 7 and the opening of Chapter 8?”
At the ending of Chapter 7, Gatsby is left “just standing [in the front of Daisy’s home]” (p. 142) situated “between two bushes” (p. 142) gazing in through the open windows of Daisy’s home. Gatsby is allegedly attempting to ensure that Tom does not “[try] to bother her about that unpleasantness [that occurred that] afternoon,” (p. 144) and is waiting for a signal from Daisy if Tom “tries any brutality.” (p. 144)
Gatsby is clinging on to any last hope that his dream can be achieved. He is desperately waiting for Daisy to come out of her house, offering to conjoin their lives once again, leaving Tom behind. During this period of time, Gatsby spends hours waiting. He claims it is purely so that Tom does not cause any harm to Daisy due to the conflict which had occurred earlier in the day. If Tom were to assault Daisy, Gatsby would immediately rush to her rescue, instantly willing to scoop up what Tom does not desire and take her for his own means. Gatsby is waiting for this opportunity to arise. Gatsby “[doesn’t] trust [Tom],” (p. 144) Gatsby doesn’t want to trust that Tom really wishes to passionately hold on to Daisy. Gatsby wants to hold on to every miniscule hope which proclaims the possibility of his desire being fulfilled- that he will achieve his dream of obtaining the Daisy whom he placed his ideals upon.
Gatsby is waiting for a sign from Daisy. He is waiting for this certain sign that will announce that his presence is desired once again. Gatsby claims that if Tom is going to attempt to harm Daisy, then “she’s going to turn the light out and on again.” (p. 144) Gatsby is awaiting the moment when he witnesses the light flicker off, only to turn back on again, symbolizing the regeneration of the relationship. When Daisy turns the light out, with the intention of turning it on again, it symbolizes that Daisy would no longer desire to continue her relationship with Tom, as she would be exposing a relationship flaw, waiting for an intervening subject. The moment she turns it on again, is the moment when she declares that she is ready for Gatsby to intrude on the relationship and release her from a harmful environment. This would be Gatsby’s cue. It would be Gatsby’s cue to march into the house, and declare his possession over Daisy. This is all Gatsby has ever desired for five years: to have the ideal of Daisy. It would be of a great delight to Gatsby to have Daisy running towards him, begging for his company. Gatsby sits there in the darkness waiting for this signal to arise. Gatsby is waiting for Tom to hurt Daisy. If Tom hurts Daisy, Gatsby would have his dream in the palm of his hand.
- Vanessa
Tags:
Gatsby, Daisy, Tom
Group 4 - Question 2
Discuss and explain the irony revealed in the purchase of the dog.
The irony in the purchase of the dog is connected to Myrtle’s marriage life. When Myrtle wants to buy a dog, she wants a strong dog and hence, she asks for a police dog. The god seller did not have a police dog so he offers her an Airedale. An Airedale in contrast to the police dog is not as strong and cannot protect Myrtle as she had hoped for. However the seller persuades Myrtle into buying the dog by telling her that an Airedale will satisfy her needs. This even is similar to Myrtle’s life. She believed that Mr. Wilson was the right man for her as she thought he was a gentleman and possessed the wealth. She made a quick decision and got married to him. However it was after that she discovers that he was not a wealthy man and did not possess any of the qualities she expected.
The purchase of the dog is also ironic because during the purchase, Myrtle really wants the dog. She buys it and brings it home, and initially, takes good care of it. She says “I’ve got to get. A massage and a wave, and a collar for the dog […]” (36). However, afterwards, there are no indications of the dog in the text. The purchase of the dog represents the consumerism of a society where everyone buys without any true intentions and at the end, everything is disposed.
Labels:
Myrtle
The irony in the purchase of the dog is connected to Myrtle’s marriage life. When Myrtle wants to buy a dog, she wants a strong dog and hence, she asks for a police dog. The god seller did not have a police dog so he offers her an Airedale. An Airedale in contrast to the police dog is not as strong and cannot protect Myrtle as she had hoped for. However the seller persuades Myrtle into buying the dog by telling her that an Airedale will satisfy her needs. This even is similar to Myrtle’s life. She believed that Mr. Wilson was the right man for her as she thought he was a gentleman and possessed the wealth. She made a quick decision and got married to him. However it was after that she discovers that he was not a wealthy man and did not possess any of the qualities she expected.
The purchase of the dog is also ironic because during the purchase, Myrtle really wants the dog. She buys it and brings it home, and initially, takes good care of it. She says “I’ve got to get. A massage and a wave, and a collar for the dog […]” (36). However, afterwards, there are no indications of the dog in the text. The purchase of the dog represents the consumerism of a society where everyone buys without any true intentions and at the end, everything is disposed.
Labels:
Myrtle
Group 4 - Question 1
Question: Nick Carraway says, "Reserving judgements is a matter of infinite hope (2)." What does he mean? What does this reveal about his character and how might this be significant to the novel?
Reserving judgement means holding back one's opinion on a subject— refraining from judging a person or an object at first glance. "Reserving judgments is a matter of infinite hope" could mean that keeping your thoughts to yourself comes with the hope that everything would come together in the end. We think what Nick is basically saying is to do nothing and hope for the best.
This quote reveals a significant part of Nick's character. In the novel, Nick is roped into multiple situations that give him the chance to do something, or, at least, speak out but he chooses to execute neither action. This proves that Nick is the type to stand back and watch a scene in silence. He is someone who keeps his thoughts to himself and would rather not get too involved with anything. An example would be Gatsby and the rumors circulating around the man. Nicks remains quiet even as hears negative things about his neighbour and, most importantly, doesn't judge the other male before they get the chance to meet. Another example is when Nick finds out about Tom's mistress. As expected, he doesn't say anything, letting the others deal with their own problems instead.
This quote is important as we later find out that reserving judgement and hoping for the best is not the best way to deal with the happenings in the novel.
Labels:
Gatsby, Nick, Tom
Group 3 - Question #4
Consider the steps Gatsby has taken to plan the encounter with Daisy. What is revealed in his character and how might this be read using a critical lens?
Below is the list of steps Gatsby took to plan his encounter with Daisy:
After the war Gatsby leaves his home to chase the "American dream" and to become good enough for Daisy:
He moves to the East and slowly works up his wealth. As the years go by, he establishes himself as a rich, party thrower, yet some what of a mystery man. No one knows him, but everyone attends his parties. This builds up his social stature. When Nick enters the story and it is revealed that he knows Daisy, Gatsby sees this as his opportunity to reignite the flame. Gatsby doesn't ask Nick, he asks Jordan to ask Nick for him. This shows that Gatsby is almost shy or embarrassed about the whole idea. When Nick agrees to it, Gatsby has to make everything perfect. Nothing can look bad for Daisy. His house, his yard and even Nick's yard must be beautiful enough for Daisy. Once Daisy arrives, you see a very awkward and strange side of Gatsby. He almost leaves before Daisy shows up. When she does show up, the encounter is very awkward as well. It almost seems that too much time has passed and that they aren't the same people they used to be. Once Nick leaves and re-enters the room, the whole atmosphere has changed. His lack of confidence that he had once Daisy entered the room was gone and the “old sport” confident Gatsby was back. When Nick describes the happiness of Gatsby, he says that he “literally glowed”. Gatsby felt that their love had been rejuvenated and he truly believed he could re-create the past and win Daisy.
If you were to read this through a lens, it could be read through psychoanalytic, Marxist and feminist.
Psychoanalytic:
Looking through this with a psychoanalytic lens, you will see Gatsby's true dreams. Ever since Gatsby fell in-love with Daisy or the idea of Daisy, he made it his goal to be rich. Not only does he achieve the wealth, but he also makes a name for himself as one of the best party throwers around. He does all of this to get Daisy's attention and for her to see that he is capable of joining the secret society. The way Gatsby plans everything out shows how he not only desires Daisy, but also longs to be accepted into this secret society. He takes 5 years to slowly build his way up and get Daisy back. He gets rich and throws amazing parties, but he is never accepted into the society. Now that he has finally met up with her, he needs to seize the opportunity to impress her. He makes his house look perfect for her and then proceeds to show her everything he has accomplished. It seems to be working as Daisy cries while Gatsby shows her his clothing. “He hadn't once ceased looking at Daisy, and I think he revalued everything in his house according to the measure of response it drew from her well-loved eyes.” This quote reveals how much Gatsby desires Daisy and feels the need to awe her and show her that he deserves to be part of the secret society.
Feminist:
Reading through with a feminist lens will show how Gatsby views Daisy. He holds her high in his mind and heart. Through the male gaze, he always speaks of her beauty. To Gatsby she is more of an object than a person.
Marxist:
If you were to read this through a Marxist lens, then it comes down to social status and wealth. Gatsby will never be accepted into the secret society, but he believes he can through the power of money and Daisy. His money will impress Daisy and win her over. He thinks if he can regain her love then he will be approved of, thus being part of the ever so elusive secret society.
Peter
Tags:Gatsby, Daisy
Below is the list of steps Gatsby took to plan his encounter with Daisy:
After the war Gatsby leaves his home to chase the "American dream" and to become good enough for Daisy:
He moves to the East and slowly works up his wealth. As the years go by, he establishes himself as a rich, party thrower, yet some what of a mystery man. No one knows him, but everyone attends his parties. This builds up his social stature. When Nick enters the story and it is revealed that he knows Daisy, Gatsby sees this as his opportunity to reignite the flame. Gatsby doesn't ask Nick, he asks Jordan to ask Nick for him. This shows that Gatsby is almost shy or embarrassed about the whole idea. When Nick agrees to it, Gatsby has to make everything perfect. Nothing can look bad for Daisy. His house, his yard and even Nick's yard must be beautiful enough for Daisy. Once Daisy arrives, you see a very awkward and strange side of Gatsby. He almost leaves before Daisy shows up. When she does show up, the encounter is very awkward as well. It almost seems that too much time has passed and that they aren't the same people they used to be. Once Nick leaves and re-enters the room, the whole atmosphere has changed. His lack of confidence that he had once Daisy entered the room was gone and the “old sport” confident Gatsby was back. When Nick describes the happiness of Gatsby, he says that he “literally glowed”. Gatsby felt that their love had been rejuvenated and he truly believed he could re-create the past and win Daisy.
If you were to read this through a lens, it could be read through psychoanalytic, Marxist and feminist.
Psychoanalytic:
Looking through this with a psychoanalytic lens, you will see Gatsby's true dreams. Ever since Gatsby fell in-love with Daisy or the idea of Daisy, he made it his goal to be rich. Not only does he achieve the wealth, but he also makes a name for himself as one of the best party throwers around. He does all of this to get Daisy's attention and for her to see that he is capable of joining the secret society. The way Gatsby plans everything out shows how he not only desires Daisy, but also longs to be accepted into this secret society. He takes 5 years to slowly build his way up and get Daisy back. He gets rich and throws amazing parties, but he is never accepted into the society. Now that he has finally met up with her, he needs to seize the opportunity to impress her. He makes his house look perfect for her and then proceeds to show her everything he has accomplished. It seems to be working as Daisy cries while Gatsby shows her his clothing. “He hadn't once ceased looking at Daisy, and I think he revalued everything in his house according to the measure of response it drew from her well-loved eyes.” This quote reveals how much Gatsby desires Daisy and feels the need to awe her and show her that he deserves to be part of the secret society.
Feminist:
Reading through with a feminist lens will show how Gatsby views Daisy. He holds her high in his mind and heart. Through the male gaze, he always speaks of her beauty. To Gatsby she is more of an object than a person.
Marxist:
If you were to read this through a Marxist lens, then it comes down to social status and wealth. Gatsby will never be accepted into the secret society, but he believes he can through the power of money and Daisy. His money will impress Daisy and win her over. He thinks if he can regain her love then he will be approved of, thus being part of the ever so elusive secret society.
Peter
Tags:Gatsby, Daisy
Group 3 - Question #3
Chapter 5 begins with Mick's fear of a "fire". Discuss and comment on the symbolism of this section in the novel.
Nick is afraid that his house had caught fire upon returning home. However, he realizes that it is only "Gatsby's house, lit from tower to cellar". Gatsby's house is so bright that "the whole corner of the peninsula was blazing with light".
The blazing light coming from Gatsby's house symbolizes his "infinite hope" and his "romantic readiness". Gatsby is utterly devoted to the pursuit of his dream, and cannot distinguish his reveries from his reality. He continues to believe in the "green light" until the very end. Nick admires his optimism, yet, at the same time, has no desire to partake in it. On the one hand, Gatsby's fire evokes a sense of wonder and amazement within Nick, and on the other, he fears its destructive nature, and would prefer to avoid it entirely. Nick understands just how destructive Gatsby's quest for the holy grail is. He understands the danger of devoting oneself entirely to an impossible ideal, an unattainable dream. Nick may indulge in the occasional fantasy, but he, unlike Gatsby, remains grounded in reality.
Gatsby's fire was at its brightest just as he was on the cusp of realizing his dream. Even as his dream was being undone, he remained as luminous as ever under the moonlight, his resolve visibly unshaken. This would prove to be his undoing. Unable to see Daisy for what she really was, unwilling to let go of his impossible illusion, he takes the fall for her carelessness and immorality. His fire consumes him, and causes him to meet a tragic end.
Ariel
Tags: Nick, Gatsby
Reference: http://cup.columbia.edu/book/978-0-231-14816-0/fitzgerald-and-hemingway/excerpt
Nick is afraid that his house had caught fire upon returning home. However, he realizes that it is only "Gatsby's house, lit from tower to cellar". Gatsby's house is so bright that "the whole corner of the peninsula was blazing with light".
The blazing light coming from Gatsby's house symbolizes his "infinite hope" and his "romantic readiness". Gatsby is utterly devoted to the pursuit of his dream, and cannot distinguish his reveries from his reality. He continues to believe in the "green light" until the very end. Nick admires his optimism, yet, at the same time, has no desire to partake in it. On the one hand, Gatsby's fire evokes a sense of wonder and amazement within Nick, and on the other, he fears its destructive nature, and would prefer to avoid it entirely. Nick understands just how destructive Gatsby's quest for the holy grail is. He understands the danger of devoting oneself entirely to an impossible ideal, an unattainable dream. Nick may indulge in the occasional fantasy, but he, unlike Gatsby, remains grounded in reality.
Gatsby's fire was at its brightest just as he was on the cusp of realizing his dream. Even as his dream was being undone, he remained as luminous as ever under the moonlight, his resolve visibly unshaken. This would prove to be his undoing. Unable to see Daisy for what she really was, unwilling to let go of his impossible illusion, he takes the fall for her carelessness and immorality. His fire consumes him, and causes him to meet a tragic end.
Ariel
Tags: Nick, Gatsby
Reference: http://cup.columbia.edu/book/978-0-231-14816-0/fitzgerald-and-hemingway/excerpt
Group 3 - Question #1
Nick meets Tom's mistress, Myrtle, and her sister. Describe each of these characters and comment on their function in the novel.
Myrtle is Mr. Wilson's wife and Tom's mistress. She is described as being sensuous, and as having a soft coarse voice and a large body type, as she has surplus flesh, wide hips and a thickish figure. She often speaks with passion and in a high pitched tone. Her personality and her appearance change once she leaves Wilson's garage and arrives at the apartment. She is initially described as having a perceptible vitality. However, once she arrives at the apartment, her vitality is exchanged for haughtiness and pride and her behaviour becomes violent and obscene. Her laughter is described as pointless and artificial, and she often shouts. She is even said to be expanding. Similarly, her dress progressively becomes more complex in design and lighter in colour.
Catherine, Myrtle's sister, is described as having a small body type, as she is slender. She also has a milky white complexion, red hair, and a blurred air to her face. Myrtle states that her sister is “said to be very beautiful by people who ought to know". Unlike her sister, Catherine doesn't drink alcohol and is for the most part calm.
Myrtle and Catherine have distinct functions within the novel. Myrtle represents excess and recklessness while her sister represents modesty and conservatism. Their large and small body types are indicative of this. Also, as Myrtle moves from the valley of ashes to downtown New York, her dresses gradually become more complicated and lighter, which symbolizes the illustrious and carefree nature of high society. She also spends a lot of money on frivolous things, becomes haughty and proud, and laughs in a pointless and artificial manner, which implies that high society is inane and superficial. Myrtle's character is also heavily sexualized, and she drinks alcohol. On the hand, Catherine is more modest and does not drink. Although Catherine, in contrast to her sister, who possesses "no facet or gleam of beauty", is said to be beautiful, Mr. McKee has no interest in photographing her. However, he does express interest in photographing Myrtle. This represents the popular notion that high society is refined and dignified, and that it is something that should be coveted. In reality, high society is corrupt and insincere.
Ariel
Tags: Myrtle, Valley of Ashes
Myrtle is Mr. Wilson's wife and Tom's mistress. She is described as being sensuous, and as having a soft coarse voice and a large body type, as she has surplus flesh, wide hips and a thickish figure. She often speaks with passion and in a high pitched tone. Her personality and her appearance change once she leaves Wilson's garage and arrives at the apartment. She is initially described as having a perceptible vitality. However, once she arrives at the apartment, her vitality is exchanged for haughtiness and pride and her behaviour becomes violent and obscene. Her laughter is described as pointless and artificial, and she often shouts. She is even said to be expanding. Similarly, her dress progressively becomes more complex in design and lighter in colour.
Catherine, Myrtle's sister, is described as having a small body type, as she is slender. She also has a milky white complexion, red hair, and a blurred air to her face. Myrtle states that her sister is “said to be very beautiful by people who ought to know". Unlike her sister, Catherine doesn't drink alcohol and is for the most part calm.
Myrtle and Catherine have distinct functions within the novel. Myrtle represents excess and recklessness while her sister represents modesty and conservatism. Their large and small body types are indicative of this. Also, as Myrtle moves from the valley of ashes to downtown New York, her dresses gradually become more complicated and lighter, which symbolizes the illustrious and carefree nature of high society. She also spends a lot of money on frivolous things, becomes haughty and proud, and laughs in a pointless and artificial manner, which implies that high society is inane and superficial. Myrtle's character is also heavily sexualized, and she drinks alcohol. On the hand, Catherine is more modest and does not drink. Although Catherine, in contrast to her sister, who possesses "no facet or gleam of beauty", is said to be beautiful, Mr. McKee has no interest in photographing her. However, he does express interest in photographing Myrtle. This represents the popular notion that high society is refined and dignified, and that it is something that should be coveted. In reality, high society is corrupt and insincere.
Ariel
Tags: Myrtle, Valley of Ashes
Group 3 - Question 2
Question: #2 How are the eyes of Dr. Eckleburg described? What do they symbolize?
The eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg are described as, " blue and gigantic- their retinas one yard high. They look out no face, rather, instead, from a pair of enormous yellow spectacles which pass over a non existent nose." The eyes are actually a billboard in which an oculist set up in order to fatten his business, before he had left. (Pg. 24)
Symbolically, Doctor Eckleburgs' eyes are commonly conceptualized as an allusion of "God" and the Eye of Providence (all seeing eye). This symbolic view of the eye's is stated amongst many scholars as being watchful of "the corrupt materialism and infedelity,"* in which the characters begin to display. The connection between the eyes of Doctor T.J Eckleburg and "God" is that "God" watches over all the reprehensible proceedings in the world, just as the eyes of Doctor Eckleburg were said to persistently watch over Tom and Nick, whilst on their way to visit Myrtle- Tom's mistress. (pg. 24) Amongst the allusion of the symbolism behind the eyes, the inference that the realization of the transition away from proper moral values and into illicit actions is expressed through the idea of the eyes watching over the wrong-doings and corruption pertaining to the Valley of Ashes. Tom and Myrtle's affair further expresses this transition into illicit conduct. Nick's statement about the eyes of Doctor Eckleburg persistently staring, connects the eyes to the idea of "God's" perpetual heed for the unscrupulous and nefarious conduct of humanity.
Tags:
Myrtle
Tom
Nick
Valley of Ashes
*sourced from http:// www.enotes.com/great-gatsby/discuss/eyes-dr-t-j-Eckleburg-3385
The eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg are described as, " blue and gigantic- their retinas one yard high. They look out no face, rather, instead, from a pair of enormous yellow spectacles which pass over a non existent nose." The eyes are actually a billboard in which an oculist set up in order to fatten his business, before he had left. (Pg. 24)
Symbolically, Doctor Eckleburgs' eyes are commonly conceptualized as an allusion of "God" and the Eye of Providence (all seeing eye). This symbolic view of the eye's is stated amongst many scholars as being watchful of "the corrupt materialism and infedelity,"* in which the characters begin to display. The connection between the eyes of Doctor T.J Eckleburg and "God" is that "God" watches over all the reprehensible proceedings in the world, just as the eyes of Doctor Eckleburg were said to persistently watch over Tom and Nick, whilst on their way to visit Myrtle- Tom's mistress. (pg. 24) Amongst the allusion of the symbolism behind the eyes, the inference that the realization of the transition away from proper moral values and into illicit actions is expressed through the idea of the eyes watching over the wrong-doings and corruption pertaining to the Valley of Ashes. Tom and Myrtle's affair further expresses this transition into illicit conduct. Nick's statement about the eyes of Doctor Eckleburg persistently staring, connects the eyes to the idea of "God's" perpetual heed for the unscrupulous and nefarious conduct of humanity.
Tags:
Myrtle
Tom
Nick
Valley of Ashes
*sourced from http:// www.enotes.com/great-gatsby/discuss/eyes-dr-t-j-Eckleburg-3385
Group 2- Question 1
Question: Characterize Jay Gatsby's parties. What do they represent in the novel and draw analogies with other similar representations in film or literature?
Jay Gatsby's parties are primarily an imitation of society during the 1920's. The parties show the vulgarity and indecency of the people during this era. Nick's descriptions highlight this. For example "One of the men was talking with curious intensity to a young actress, and his wife, after attempting to laugh at the situation in a dignified and indifferent way, broke down entirely and resorted to flans attacks- at intervals she appeared suddenly at his side like an angry diamond, and hissed;"You promised!" into his ear." This quotation is a perfect representation of the values in the society that the party guests live in. In today’s world, this situation would almost never happen; this kind of blatant disrespect for others is no longer accepted in society this is evidently not the case during the 1920’s. It highlights the vulgarity and disrespect of the party go-ers and their complete disregard for other peoples’ feelings. Gatsby’s parties are depicted very negatively in these chapters; Nick’s use of unfavorable diction as well as his brutally honest description of characters gives a very cynical view of the society that surrounds him.In addition to this, Jay Gatsby's parties also represent his failed efforts at becoming apart of this secret society. Although he is surrounded by tons of people, he is still completely unknown and alone. Unfortunately for Gatsby, no matter how many parties he throws and how much money he spends he can never buy his way into the 1% of society he is so desperate to be apart of.
Jay Gatsby’s parties also show the complete entitlement of the characters that are present at the parties. Most of those who attended Gatsby’s party were not invited and yet they believe they have every right to be there. This characterization represents the power of the aristocracy of society in the novel. These people have neither an invite nor any knowledge of Jay Gatsby but in their eyes this is irrelevant due to their association with the undistinguished and secret society that separate the “old” rich and the “new” rich in East and West Egg. This is shown when Nick overhears a conversation between a group of people that are debating how Gatsby became so rich. None of these stories have any shred of truth behind them but these people, who were not invited but are eating and drinking Gatsby’s food still feel the need to talk ill of their host.
Similar representations of the concept of the entitlement of the rich or upper class in society can be seen in many novels concerning the struggle between two parts of society. For example in The Help, the conflict between the maids and their bosses shows the indecency of some of the white women who do not show respect towards the maids. Another example of this is any film that looks at the Spanish Inquisitions, although the severity of the conflicts are very different, the core values of the Catholic Church are the same. Due to their membership to the upper class, the church feels no regrets in persecuting anyone and everyone. There is neither decency nor respect; two feelings that are common of the people of West Egg.
Ruth Mengistu
Labels: Gatsby
Group 2 - Question 2
Question: Make note of the colours associated with the party
and discuss the symbolic significance of these.
In Gatsby’s party in chapter three there are a few colours
that are referred to a number of times. The colours are often used to show
emotions or foreshadowing further in the book. The most dominant colour in the
party is yellow. Yellow has very contrasting meanings. Yellow is a symbol of the sun, which brings us
summer and warmth. Especially in our culture in Canada, summer is a joyful season
and people are often positively affected. Gold, also a shade of yellow, is almost
always viewed as success, wealth and a positive future to come. The contrasting
negative view of yellow is decay. Many things in our life become yellow as they
begin to decay. For example our teeth and nails. Leafs and other plants turn
yellow as they die, and fall is also a symbolism of yellow. Fall is the start
of the cold, the days get shorter and these are often negative effects in our
life. “The lights grow brighter as the earth lurches away from the sun, and now
the orchestra is playing yellow cocktail music” (pg.40) is a section of the
description of the party. This is one of the positive yellow meanings in the
party. The “ yellow cocktail music” is
described at the beginning at the party shows how the party is going great and
at this point it’s all positive feelings. Further into the party a lady in a
yellow dress and a lady with read hair start playing a “ very, very sad” (pg.
51) song. The yellow symbolizes the decay in the party and how everything is dying
down and there is drama between spouses. It could also have been foreshadowing
for the decay to come further in the book. Red is often a warning colour or has
a negative meaning to it for example death or anger. The lady with the red hair
could have been foreshadowing and a warning for the crash in the end of the
party. The red could also be foreshadowing the deaths of Gatsby later on in the
book. There is gold used to describe the amazing food at Gatsby’s party. This
describes the food being more valuable then plain food symbolizing the wealth
in the party. (pg 40)
Monday 22 October 2012
Group 1 - Question 3
Question 3: Nick meets Gatsby's friend, Meyer Wolfsheim, and on page 71, says, "The juxtaposition of these two remarks was startling." Explain and comment on how this is significant in the novel.
Answer: The quote on this page refers to the ideas of death and money ("these two remarks"), which are indeed "startling". This quote, along with the fact that he is a businessman, hints that Meyer Wolfsheim has a greedy personality (shown by how money was mentioned in the quote) and that he is careless about deaths. Together, this shows that Meyer Wolfsheim is a ruthless individual who wants to obtain money regardless of who gets hurt or dies along the way. In addition, Wolfsheim quickly changed the topic to business right after casually talking about his friends' deaths, showing he is uncaring and indifferent to those supposedly tragic events and only cares about money. This is significant to the novel because Wolfsheim is shown to be a good friend of Gatsby, who is supposedly a high class man. This shows that Gatsby may also participate in illegal activities along with Wolfsheim, which is a severe contrast to his public image (a rich, law-abiding man). This shows that Gatsby is so determined on reaching his goal that he does not care about the methods he uses to achieve them, which could end up being his downfall.
Tony Wang
Group 2 - Question 3
Question: Tom Buchanan shows up at Gatsby’s mansion with two other men.
Note the way in which the three men treat Gatsby and comment on the
significance of this scene. How might this be read with a critical lens?
The scene in question took place in chapter 6 of the novel and involved the characters of Tom Buchanan, a man named Sloan, and a female of unknown name. They arrived at Gatsby's mansion on a Sunday afternoon and behaved quite indecently towards their host, not bothering to display any signs of common courtesy or state the nature of their visit. They left soon after in a very humiliating way from Gatsby's prospective as he was under the impression he would accompany them, however they left without him simply allowing Nick to explain they could not wait.
In regards to the novel, this scene serves to convey Tom's dislike of Gatsby and belief that he belongs to a lower social class than himself. This information is crucial to readers as it carries on throughout the rest of the novel and can be seen as one of Gatsby's ultimate goals - to gain entrance into this "secret society" to which he does not belong.
This scene in the book can easily be read through a Marxist lens by focusing on the apparent social disconnect between Tom and Gatsby. Tom and his friends belong to a society of the wealthy and the rich, their names carry great weight and have an established lineage. This is in contrast to Gatsby, who is wealthy but has no family history or established roots and is referred to as "newly rich", therefore he is viewed as bellow them and is treated as such. In this context, Gatsby represents the oppressed lower class while Tom, Sloan and their female accomplice embody the oppressive upper class. When they arrive, Gatsby is visibly anxious and tense and begins to quickly offer up any sort of item to appease them, the narrator making a point to state, "that was all they really came for.". When all his offers were refused, Gatsby attempted to make conversation, however his guest replied with minimal engagement and made an effort to cut him off mid sentence. A great example of this is when Gatsby attempts to start a conversation about automobiles, "I suppose the automobiles-", but before he could finish, Mr. Sloan flatly replies with, "Yeah.". This sort of behavior serves to embarrass and humiliate Gatsby and cement the three's authority over him.
In conclusion, the scene in chapter 6, where Tom Buchanan, Sloan, and an unnamed female visit Gatsby's mansion, can be viewed through a Marxist lens where their Gatsby is the socially oppressed and his guests are the oppressors.
Note the way in which the three men treat Gatsby and comment on the
significance of this scene. How might this be read with a critical lens?
The scene in question took place in chapter 6 of the novel and involved the characters of Tom Buchanan, a man named Sloan, and a female of unknown name. They arrived at Gatsby's mansion on a Sunday afternoon and behaved quite indecently towards their host, not bothering to display any signs of common courtesy or state the nature of their visit. They left soon after in a very humiliating way from Gatsby's prospective as he was under the impression he would accompany them, however they left without him simply allowing Nick to explain they could not wait.
In regards to the novel, this scene serves to convey Tom's dislike of Gatsby and belief that he belongs to a lower social class than himself. This information is crucial to readers as it carries on throughout the rest of the novel and can be seen as one of Gatsby's ultimate goals - to gain entrance into this "secret society" to which he does not belong.
This scene in the book can easily be read through a Marxist lens by focusing on the apparent social disconnect between Tom and Gatsby. Tom and his friends belong to a society of the wealthy and the rich, their names carry great weight and have an established lineage. This is in contrast to Gatsby, who is wealthy but has no family history or established roots and is referred to as "newly rich", therefore he is viewed as bellow them and is treated as such. In this context, Gatsby represents the oppressed lower class while Tom, Sloan and their female accomplice embody the oppressive upper class. When they arrive, Gatsby is visibly anxious and tense and begins to quickly offer up any sort of item to appease them, the narrator making a point to state, "that was all they really came for.". When all his offers were refused, Gatsby attempted to make conversation, however his guest replied with minimal engagement and made an effort to cut him off mid sentence. A great example of this is when Gatsby attempts to start a conversation about automobiles, "I suppose the automobiles-", but before he could finish, Mr. Sloan flatly replies with, "Yeah.". This sort of behavior serves to embarrass and humiliate Gatsby and cement the three's authority over him.
In conclusion, the scene in chapter 6, where Tom Buchanan, Sloan, and an unnamed female visit Gatsby's mansion, can be viewed through a Marxist lens where their Gatsby is the socially oppressed and his guests are the oppressors.
Saturday 20 October 2012
Group 1 – Question 6
Question: Time is an important motif in the novel. Describe the use of time and the effect in these closing chapters.
Time passes very slowly throughout the majority of “The Great Gatsby”. The whole affair passes over several months. This is accentuated with the heat of the day of the Luncheon at Daisy’s house. Daisy speaks about how she doesn’t know what she’ll do today or tomorrow or for the next thirty years. This demonstrates clearly just how long time seems to stretch out. They have all the time in the world and all the money they need. The heat creates an atmosphere of almost creeping anxiety. And then, soon after this time seems to move faster and faster until everything is coalescing at once. Soon they’re fighting in New York Wilson Jordan
Gatsby’s father shows Nick his time table. This shows that Gatsby’s time’s run out. He spent all his life planning and worrying, organizing everything to his perfect ideal, from his work, to Daisy. He moved across the Bay simply to be closer to Daisy. He planned for five years his meeting with her and fretted over it intensely when the day actually arrived. He plans his parties to rise in social status to know people, to become this mystery. He bides his time. Yet when he stops planning, when he reacts and he feels that is when everything falls apart. And it is once he gives up on the ideal of once was, when he finally relaxes and enjoys his money not for the ideal, not to fit the plan, but for himself he is murdered.
As well, age is used to show the passing of time. The day that the corruption of all the characters really begins to blow up in their faces, (the affairs, the excess of money and liquor) that is the day that Nick turns 30. The connotation behind the age of 20 is very free. It is the careless youth, a lifestyle to party and do as you wish. Yet 30 is the end of that. Suddenly, one is really an adult. The expectation is to raise a family, work a good job and have a solid built future. Not the careless youth that once was. This is entirely parallel with what is happening in the story. When Nick turns 30 he is at the last Party that will ever happen again between these characters. After he realizes this things turn to the worse. Myrtle is hit by Daisy in Gatsby’s car and killed, Gatsby is shot by Wilson Wilson
Jennifer
Group 4 - Question 6
Discuss Gatsby’s funeral using a Feminist, Marxist, and Psychoanalytic lens.
Answer:
Answer:
Reading Gatsby’s funeral using a Marxist lens reveals historical materialism. This category of the lens is revealed when Mr. Gatz, Gatsby’s father, shows Nick the schedule that was once written by Gatsby when he was young. The schedule Gatsby wrote determines that Gatsby was disciplined and organized , also he was determined with every thing he did, even as a young child.
Class struggle is also noticed at Gatsby’s funeral. Gatsby is not rich but he is considered wealthy. At his funeral , people who are rich do not show up. For example - Tom and Daisy. Neither did people who attended his parties. They only came to dance, drink and have fun , other than that , they were no friends of Gatsby. Meyer Wolfsheim , partner of Gatsby in the bond business, did not show up . Even though Mr.Wolfshiem , knew Gatsby for a long time he did not attend his funeral. His excuses was not to get involved in his death. Wolfsheim was a rich man, but he ignored his partner’s death . One could connect , due to Gatsby not being rich but wealthy, he is actually considered lower class since his family background was lower class. Therefore, people like Tom, Daisy , Mr.Wolfsheim , did not show up because they were all categorized as the higher class. Overall, it is remarkable how values toward other people change according to the social class. When was money more valuable than a person’s death?
Reading Gatsby’s funeral through a Feminist lens , it is noticed that patriarchy is presented due to no women attending Gatsby’s funeral. Even the woman Gatsby loved did not attend. Even though Gatsby did not accidentally kill anyone , unlike Daisy, Gatsby did not want any one to know that is was Daisy . This reveals the category of, the need for masculine protection , where every women needs her man to protect her. In this context , Gatsby was protecting Daisy from the crime that she had convicted.
Examining Gatsby’s funeral through a Psychoanalytic lens , the collective unconscious is revealed in the text. Gatsby was murdered by Mr. Wilson , because he though Gatsby ran over his wife, Mrs. Wilson, with a car. The reader is aware that it was daisy , the lady who is so innocent and sweet but. she mirrors the archetypal figure of the destroying angel. Even though Daisy character is recognized as a sweet, angel type women, the author uses this archetypical figure to mask the truth about daisy to the society. No one would ever believe that Daisy killed Mrs. Wilson , due to her innocence and sweet appearance.
Karishma
Class struggle is also noticed at Gatsby’s funeral. Gatsby is not rich but he is considered wealthy. At his funeral , people who are rich do not show up. For example - Tom and Daisy. Neither did people who attended his parties. They only came to dance, drink and have fun , other than that , they were no friends of Gatsby. Meyer Wolfsheim , partner of Gatsby in the bond business, did not show up . Even though Mr.Wolfshiem , knew Gatsby for a long time he did not attend his funeral. His excuses was not to get involved in his death. Wolfsheim was a rich man, but he ignored his partner’s death . One could connect , due to Gatsby not being rich but wealthy, he is actually considered lower class since his family background was lower class. Therefore, people like Tom, Daisy , Mr.Wolfsheim , did not show up because they were all categorized as the higher class. Overall, it is remarkable how values toward other people change according to the social class. When was money more valuable than a person’s death?
Reading Gatsby’s funeral through a Feminist lens , it is noticed that patriarchy is presented due to no women attending Gatsby’s funeral. Even the woman Gatsby loved did not attend. Even though Gatsby did not accidentally kill anyone , unlike Daisy, Gatsby did not want any one to know that is was Daisy . This reveals the category of, the need for masculine protection , where every women needs her man to protect her. In this context , Gatsby was protecting Daisy from the crime that she had convicted.
Examining Gatsby’s funeral through a Psychoanalytic lens , the collective unconscious is revealed in the text. Gatsby was murdered by Mr. Wilson , because he though Gatsby ran over his wife, Mrs. Wilson, with a car. The reader is aware that it was daisy , the lady who is so innocent and sweet but. she mirrors the archetypal figure of the destroying angel. Even though Daisy character is recognized as a sweet, angel type women, the author uses this archetypical figure to mask the truth about daisy to the society. No one would ever believe that Daisy killed Mrs. Wilson , due to her innocence and sweet appearance.
Karishma
Group 4 - Question 5
Eyes continue to appear as a pattern of imagery, a motif, used to convey a message. Explain the symbolism of the eyes in the novel.
Answer
The eyes in the novel are represented through the big billboard with the eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg. They stand for god’s eyes and symbolise that god is always watching over them. Wilson says to Michealis “I told her she might fool me but she couldn’t fool God” and also he adds “God knows what you’ve been doing, everything you’ve been doing. You may fool me, but you can’t fool God” (Pg159) this shows that Wilson believed in god and knew that he was always watching. Right after this conversation Michaelis looks with shock at the eyes of Dr. T.J Eckleburg watching over them, this portrays that the eyes see everything which happens in the novel. Also, the billboard is located in the Valley of Ashes and is described as being blue, which stands for hope, meaning there is some hope in midst of the grey and dull valley of ashes. Also to go from East Egg to New York or West Egg the characters always had to cross the valley of ashes, where - the eyes of Dr. Eckleburg are located, this suggests that they were always watching over the characters in the novel, they knew that Daisy killed Myrtle and they knew that Wilson’s wife was cheating on him.
Nayaelah
Answer
The eyes in the novel are represented through the big billboard with the eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg. They stand for god’s eyes and symbolise that god is always watching over them. Wilson says to Michealis “I told her she might fool me but she couldn’t fool God” and also he adds “God knows what you’ve been doing, everything you’ve been doing. You may fool me, but you can’t fool God” (Pg159) this shows that Wilson believed in god and knew that he was always watching. Right after this conversation Michaelis looks with shock at the eyes of Dr. T.J Eckleburg watching over them, this portrays that the eyes see everything which happens in the novel. Also, the billboard is located in the Valley of Ashes and is described as being blue, which stands for hope, meaning there is some hope in midst of the grey and dull valley of ashes. Also to go from East Egg to New York or West Egg the characters always had to cross the valley of ashes, where - the eyes of Dr. Eckleburg are located, this suggests that they were always watching over the characters in the novel, they knew that Daisy killed Myrtle and they knew that Wilson’s wife was cheating on him.
Nayaelah
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The opening paragraphs of chapter two describe the valley of ashes. The valley is the complete opposite of other places in the book. In fact, the only colour used to describe it is grey, a colour associated with loss or depression. The diction and other rhetorical devices used in the description make the valley seem like a negative or bad dream. It is described as a “fantastic farm where ashes grow like wheat into ridges and hills and grotesque gardens”. At first, the valley is described as fantastic but then it is described as grotesque and grey, which gives the valley a sense of deterioration, comparable to the American dream. The atmosphere in the valley of ashes is vapid, careless, poor and bleak.
The eyes of Dr. T.J Eckleburg are also described in these paragraphs. These eyes are “unblinking” and one yard high which gives the impression of always being watched. The colours used to describe the eyes and the glasses are yellow and blue. These colours can have a negative connotation. Blue can mean sickness and power. Yellow can also mean jealousy, decay and sickness. Also, the oculist who made the eyes is said to be a “wild wag” that once used the eyes to “fatten” his practices. The diction makes the idea seem to fit in with the American dream of the time. However, now the eyes are “solemn” and “dimmed”, which gives a sense of deterioration and carelessness.
The atmosphere up to this point of the novel is glamorous, rich and lively. In the valley, the atmosphere is dead, poor and dirty, the opposite of the first chapter. This could again signify the deterioration of the American dream.
Ryan Bell