Intro to The Great Gatsby The American Dream
Intro to The Great Gatsby
The American Dream • The belief that in America, with hard work and determination, you can achieve anything you want. • This DOES NOT always mean getting rich.
The Roaring Twenties • The economy was booming, allowing for excessive spending, drinking, and partying. • Although prohibition was in effect, bootlegging was popular and the rich often weren’t punished. • Characterized by dramatic social and political change. • Think: flappers, parties, jazz music.
The Lost Generation • Men who were affected by WWI began searching for meaning in the world. • They felt they had no drive or purpose. • Traditional values of courage and patriotism were lost and replaced by aimlessness, recklessness, and materialism.
East Egg vs. West Egg • East Egg = Old money (all vowels). • West Egg = New money AKA nouveau riche (initials spell new backwards). • It was more respected to be old money, meaning that you inherited your money from your family.
Themes, Symbols, and Motifs to Look for • Materialism • Corrupting power of money • Color • Pathetic fallacy • Memory and the past • Lies and deceit • Society and class • The green light • The eyes of TJ Eckleburg • The Valley of Ashes • Religion • Owl eyes • Cars
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