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
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)