Gatsby Paper

PAPER DUE 3. 30.14

Essential Question: How does money influence one's identity?

ESSAY PROMPT: The 1920’s American society was focused on what you had or your possessions rather than your contribution to society. In a well developed essay, analyze a character’s response to the influences of money. Analyze how the character's identity is impacted by their financial standing. How is this theme still relevant today?

March 13, 2014

Preparation for 3.14.2014

Read Ch.4

Tomorrow we will have a Socratic Seminar focusing on the Ch. 3 & 4


Socratic Seminar opening questions:

1) Why does Fitzgerald choose to highlight this specific class of the 1920s?

2) Do you agree that nick is honest and Nonjudgemental? Can you call yourself honest and nonjudgemental?

3) Is Nick a trustworthy narrator?

4) "There are only the pursued, the pursuing, the busy and the tired" (pg 78). Why do you think Nick repeats this over and over? What do you think it means? What does it say about his lifestyle and the people who he hangs out with?

March 9, 2014

As you read "The Great Gatsby" chapter 2 &3 please read to understand the significance of the following:

Chapter 2

1. Tom's New York city apartment
2. What Mr. Wilson wants/needs from Tom
3. The Valley of Ashes
4. The eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg 
1. These eyes represent most clearly a God figure, specifically to George Wilson. They also represent a moral judge of society.  As the story progresses you will learn how Mr. Wilson is slightly mentally unstable. 

Chapter 3

1. Nick' connection to Gatsby
2. The rumors surrounding who Gatsby really is and how he got his money
3. Gatsby's behavior and presence during his parties

March 5, 2013

Read Chapter One of The Great Gatsby

You're looking at the characterizations of the main characters, as well as the setting of the story.

Here is a link to help you with looking at characterization: Click Here

March 4, 2014--Old Money v. New Money

Complete this chart in your notes

An important idea that plays out in The Great Gatsby is the interplay between "Old Money" and "New Money."  Today's goal is to gather and discuss your ideas about Old Money and New Money.

March 3, 2014 --Jigsawing the Twenties

Complete this before class Tuesday