Topics for Discussion
1. What exactly is the American dream? Does it hold the same significance for the various characters in the novel? Has Jay Gatsby achieved the dream as he perceives it?
2. Why does Daisy leave her husband for Gatsby temporarily? What prevents her from staying with Gatsby?
3. What draws Gatsby to Daisy? How does he express his love for her? What is the significance of the green light?
4. What are Nick's thoughts about Gatsby? How do his perceptions of Gatsby evolve?
5. The motif of reckless driving recurs throughout the book. List instances of such behavior. What does reckless driving represent?
6. How significant is Myrtle Wilson's death? Why does Daisy allow Gatsby to take the blame for it?
7. What is the symbolic importance of Dr. T. J. Eckleburg's eyes on the billboard overlooking the valley of ashes?
8. Why does only one of Gatsby's former party guests attend his funeral?
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