I reposted it with the proper format below. By the way, I can't think of anything more fun to do on a Saturday afternoon than editing a high school English blog. Born to be wild indeed...
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
I think that the sheer size of Doctor Eckleburg's eyes is significant because it shows how even though "God" is symbolized so obviously as watching over them, the characters choose to ignore it. I saw this as a clear warning, to the characters, of which they chose to put aside.
The fact that T.J. Eckleburg's eyes, a representation of God, is a wrecked advertisement is quite significant. It shows that the factors related to religion such as morals, ethics, faith and the simplicity of being good to others has been damaged. Society has become corrupted and has loss all sense of a moral compass resulting in such materialistic characteristics such as greed and jealously.
As well i'd like to point out, later on in the novel, after Myrtle has died Michaelis is sitting with Wilson in the garage. He's devastated. But it's when Wilson starts talking about going after the yellow car and about finding out who did it that mentions the eyes appearing through the night. Until then, they are not a present force.
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.
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.
I'd like to point out also the contrast of the house after Myrtle's death. It is no longer lit at all. In fact it is described quite darkly. This can be seen on page 147. egs. "ghostly piano", "inumerable feet of dark wall", he "stood in darkness".
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.
Even the fact that he moved right across the bay to be able to see her house and would check the paper to find mentions of her demonstrates the lengths he went.
Good work on the different lens you took to analyse the relationship between Gatsby and Daisy. I agree with your point of view in reference to the feminist lens. Gatsby has placed Daisy high on a pedestal and will see no wrong done by her. Gatsby deceives himself by ignoring all of the experience and life events that Daisy went through during their time apart including her marriage into another wealthy family, her materialism and desire for riches and prestige. Even when Daisy kills Myrtle in a hit and run, Gatsby does not seem to place any judgement on Daisy, instead worrying about her own mental health upon the accident. Therefore yes, Gatsby seems to see Daisy as an object. (perhaps a nice flowerpot or somethin..)
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteAn interesting symbolic view of both characters. This will help me look at them differently as I read the book.
DeleteIf this was Facebook, I'd 'like' Chris's comment. Interesting perspective! (:
DeleteAriel, this is not formatted properly, see the main page for review and then edit the comment. Thank you.
DeleteI reposted it with the proper format below. By the way, I can't think of anything more fun to do on a Saturday afternoon than editing a high school English blog. Born to be wild indeed...
Deleteno kidding.
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDelete
ReplyDeleteQuestion: #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
I think that the sheer size of Doctor Eckleburg's eyes is significant because it shows how even though "God" is symbolized so obviously as watching over them, the characters choose to ignore it. I saw this as a clear warning, to the characters, of which they chose to put aside.
DeleteI liked the fact that you mentioned that the eyes are watching through the corruption in the valley. I think that this is pretty important.
Delete"The eyes are actually a billboard"
DeleteThe fact that T.J. Eckleburg's eyes, a representation of God, is a wrecked advertisement is quite significant. It shows that the factors related to religion such as morals, ethics, faith and the simplicity of being good to others has been damaged. Society has become corrupted and has loss all sense of a moral compass resulting in such materialistic characteristics such as greed and jealously.
As well i'd like to point out, later on in the novel, after Myrtle has died Michaelis is sitting with Wilson in the garage. He's devastated. But it's when Wilson starts talking about going after the yellow car and about finding out who did it that mentions the eyes appearing through the night. Until then, they are not a present force.
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteGroup 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.
ReplyDeleteMyrtle 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
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteGroup 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.
ReplyDeleteNick 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
I'd like to point out also the contrast of the house after Myrtle's death. It is no longer lit at all. In fact it is described quite darkly. This can be seen on page 147. egs. "ghostly piano", "inumerable feet of dark wall", he "stood in darkness".
DeleteGroup 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?
ReplyDeleteBelow 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
Even the fact that he moved right across the bay to be able to see her house and would check the paper to find mentions of her demonstrates the lengths he went.
DeleteGood work on the different lens you took to analyse the relationship between Gatsby and Daisy. I agree with your point of view in reference to the feminist lens. Gatsby has placed Daisy high on a pedestal and will see no wrong done by her. Gatsby deceives himself by ignoring all of the experience and life events that Daisy went through during their time apart including her marriage into another wealthy family, her materialism and desire for riches and prestige. Even when Daisy kills Myrtle in a hit and run, Gatsby does not seem to place any judgement on Daisy, instead worrying about her own mental health upon the accident. Therefore yes, Gatsby seems to see Daisy as an object. (perhaps a nice flowerpot or somethin..)
ReplyDelete