essay questions great gatsby

194 The Great Gatsby Essay Titles and Examples

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• Analysis of the Shirt Scene in “The Great Gatsby” Film
• The Clock as a Symbol in “The Great Gatsby”
• Daisy Buchanan: “I Did Love Him Once, but I Loved You, Too”
• Tom and Gatsby: Compare and Contrast Essay
• The Great Gatsby Reflection Paper
• The Great Gatsby: Analysis and Feminist Critique The feminist critique is an aspect that seeks to explore the topic of men domination in the social, economic, and political sectors.
• Silver & Gold: Color Symbolism in The Great Gatsby Although the color palette presented in Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby is rich, the problem of differing social status is most vividly described in the novel through the use of golden and silver colors that stand […]
• Nick as the Narrator in The Great Gatsby Therefore, his connection with the Gatsby’s story is that he is depended upon to serve as the mouthpiece of the older generation as he metaphorically transcends through time to retell the Great Gatsby tale accurately […]
• Autobiographical Elements in “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The story is set during the roaring twenties, a period of significant social and cultural change, and it incorporates many of the author’s personal experiences, feelings, and perceptions of the time.
• Daisy’s Character Study in “The Great Gatsby” The argument is that the author attempts to describe her as a pure and innocent female to ensure that the reader understands the perspective of Jay, but particular aspects of her true identity are revealed […]
• American Culture in the Novel “The Great Gatsby” In The Great Gatsby, Scott Fitzgerald documents these changes through an in-depth exploration of cultural changes such as the rise in consumerism, materialism, greed for wealth, and the culture of loosening morals in the 1920s […]
• The Great Gatsby and Winter Dreams by Scott Fitzgerald In this analysis, the researcher will try to confirm the argument that the Great Gatsby was a continuation of the Winter Dreams.
• Why is Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby a Satire? Another aspect of satire in Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby is the wealth associated with Gatsby, as the reader observes in chapter two.
• “The Great Gatsby” Film by Baz Luhrmann The Great Gatsby is a film that stars Jay Gatsby, Nick Carraway, Tom Buchanan, and the Southern Belle Daisy. The influence of the past comes out throughout the course of the film.
• Gatsby & Nick in The Great Gatsby The Great Gatsby is a novel of vibrant characters, and paradox is one of the main themes of the book. Even though Daisy and Tom are married, Nick agrees to help Gatsby be with the […]
• ‘The Great Gatsby’ and ‘A Streetcar Named Desire’ Literature Comparison Stella is a devoted wife struggling to make her marriage work, even though her husband Stanley, subjects her to a lot of pain and suffering.
• Female Characters in A Streetcar Named Desire & The Great Gatsby: Comparative It can be seen in the case of Stella and Daisy wherein in their pursuit of what they think is their “ideal” love, they are, in fact, pursuing nothing more than a false ideal that […]
• The Corrupted American Dream and Its Significance in “The Great Gatsby” The development of the American dream and its impact on the society of the United States is a pertinent topic of discussion for various authors.
• The American Dream in The Great Gatsby After spending some time in this neighborhood, Nick finally attends Gatsby’s exuberant parties only to realize that Gatsby organizes these parties to impress Daisy, Nick’s cousin, and wife to Tom.
• The Great Gatsby All these characteristics of America during 1920 are evident and inherent in the main character, Jay Gatsby, in the novel The Great Gatsby. This is one of the themes in the novel The Great Gatsby.
• Jay Gatsby: The Great Fool or the Unfortunate Genius The main idea of the work is to show the unfairness of the fate of a poor young man who cannot marry the girl he loves.
• Babylon Revisited & The Great Gatsby: Motifs & Themes When he pleads his case to the guardians of Honoria, his sister-in-law Marion, and her husband, he continually evades his escapades of the past and recounts his hard work and sincerity of the present.
• Time as a Theme in The Great Gatsby The embodiment of these negative aspects comes in the form of Gatsby and his life, which in the end is seen as hollow and empty, just as the morals and values of the characters seen […]
• Fairy Tale Traits in The Great Gatsby Basing on the several evident parameters, for instance, the character traits, the behavior of prince and princess, and gender distinctions amongst others, Fitzgerald’s masterwork stands out as a variation and sophisticated version of the fairy […]
• Fitzgerald’s American Dream in The Great Gatsby & Winter Dreams To my mind, Winter Dream is a perfect example of the American Dream, since the main hero, Dexter, implemented each point of it, he was persistent and very hard-working, he was a very sensible and […]
• The American Dream Roles in The Great Gatsby: Pursuers, Pursued, and the Disillusioned Nick’s narration of events throughout these two chapters dismantles the belief of the American Dream where ‘anyone can pull themselves up from their bootstraps’, because in reality it only yields four groups of people: “.the […]
• Use of Image in “The Great Gatsby” Novel by Fitzgerald In the future, the author uses this symbol to express Gatsby’s attitude to the image that he created in his head, and which went out by the end of the work.
• Architecture in “The Great Gatsby” by Fitzgerald From this perspective, the case of Gatsby’s mansion is a symbolic call for leaving behind the anachronistic ideas of aristocracy and embracing American ideals.
• The Great Gatsby by Fitzgerald Review Gatsby’s dream to become wealthy to gain Daisy’s attention “is simply believable and is still a common dream of the current time”. However, Gatsby is the story’s main character and is a “personification” of the […]
• Fertile Questions: “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald The two fertile questions arising from the novel are: what are political and economic impacts of the World War I? and what are the challenges faced by American students born from poor families post-World War […]
• Tom and George in Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby At the same time, the motives of Tom and George’s behavior differ due to their backgrounds, origins, and belonging to different social classes.
• “The Great Gatsby”: The American Dream in the Jazz Age The Jazz Age is a period in the history of the United States of America from the end of World War I to the beginning of the Great Depression due to the remarkable popularity of […]
• Women’s Role in “The Great Gatsby” by Fitzgerald Though the women in the novel are depicted as careless, treacherous, and selfish, the author uses them to underscore the power of the will to rebel against societal norms in pursuit of happiness.
• “The Great Gatsby Directed” by Baz Luhrmann This is due to the fact that the film is an indirect adaptation of Francis Scott Key Fitzgerald’s book “The Great Gatsby”.
• Novel Analysis: The Great Gatsby and Siddhartha Hesse’s Siddhartha seems complementary to The Great Gatsby as Brahman, the main role in Siddhartha, finds contentment in self-realization and not in money, sensuality, and love.
• Fitzgerald’s ‘The Great Gatsby’, Steinbeck’s ‘Of Mice and Men’ and the American Dream “The America Dream’ is a longstanding common belief of the American population that in the United States, people are free to realize the full potential of their labor and their talents and every person in […]
• “The Great Gatsby” by Scott Fitzgerald Who will take care of the dead creatures seems not to be in Tom’s order of what to bother him and together with the wife is comfortable enjoying their wealth while the creatures are rotting […]
• Characters in Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby” and Angelou’s “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings” The author presents challenges faced in the society as a result of the mixture racial and gender discrimination that a young black girl goes through in search of her dream and personal identity.

The best way to keep your readers’ attention is by using catchy hooks. Here are the best examples of hooks for The Great Gatsby essays together with corresponding topics:

• Topic: Tom vs Gatsby: The Great Gatsby character analysis and comparison. Hook: After finishing Fitzgerald’s novel, most readers ask themselves about why Daisy decides to stay with Tom despite his multiple negative characteristics. What’s so special about him that Gatsby doesn’t have?
• Topic: The Great Gatsby and why he is so great. Hook: I remember how my elderly neighbor always called everyone “old sport,” which always reminded me of Gatsby. Just like the character, he had his flaws but knew how to dream, which made him a great person.
• Topic: The main differences in Nick’s narration style when he’s with Jordan in The Great Gatsby . Hook: “There was Jordan beside me, who, unlike Daisy, was too wise ever to carry well-forgotten dreams from age to age,” is a quote highlighting Jordan’s personality. When Nick’s with her, he becomes as cautious as she is.
• Topic: The real-life places and people as inspiration for The Great Gatsby . Hook: Beacon Towers, the Long Island mansion that had 140 rooms and was demolished in 1945, might have been an inspiration for Fitzgerald’s novel.
• Greene’s “Our Man in Havana” and “The Great Gatsby” by Fitzgerald It is imperative to realize that the purpose of the paper is not to carry out a critical analysis of the plays but to carry out a comparison of the attributes in which they relate […]
• What Money Cannot Buy: ‘The Great Gatsby’ Book by F. S. Fitzgerald The Great Gatsby is a book that unveils the instrumental role of the social aspect of life among people; which not only concentrates on the economic part of it.
• “The Great Gatsby” by Baz Luhrmann The filmmakers never stop depicting Gatsby’s wealth and his otherness. He throws money around and he is a topic of heated debates in the society.
• First-Person Narrative in Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby,” Joyce’s “The Boarding House,” Bowen’s “The Demon Lover” In Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby, Joyce’s short story “The Boarding House,” and the Scottish poem The Demon Lover, the first-person narrative is used differently to achieve the authors’ objectives and create a comprehensive picture of […]
• First-Person Narrative in Bowen’s ”The Demon Lover,” Updike’s ”A&P,” Fitzgerald’s ”The Great Gatsby” In this work, the unworked, repressed experience of the First World War is personified and embodied in the image of the ghost of a person who died in this war.
• “The Great Gatsby” by Fitzgerald: Betrayal, Romance, Social Politics and Feminism This work seeks to outline the role of women in the development of the plot of the book and in relation to the social issues affecting women in contemporary society.
• Jay Gatsby, Jean Valjean and Henry Fleming: The Compare and Contrast Analyses of the Characters The way the characters of the main protagonists are revealed in the novel is one of the most important things in every piece of literature.
• “The Great Gatsby” Novel by Francis Scott Fitzgerald However, what the reader should acknowledge is that the author manages to present a wholesome and clear image of the issues and occurrences that defined the United States throughout the 1920s.
• The Great Gatsby’ by Scott Fitzgerald Literature Analysis This is one of the details that can be identified. This is one of the issues that can be singled out.
• Political Satire in American Literature Scott Fitzgerald was one of the more famous satirists of the time, particularly in his production of the work The Great Gatsby.
• The Dilemmas of the American Dream in The Great Gatsby The Great Gatsby is a story of a young man in the early twentieth century who seems to know what he wants in the way of that dream and what to do to achieve it.
• The Great Gatsby – Love, Wealth, and Illusion In the novel, the fictional village of West Egg is perhaps one of the key items that symbolize the life of the new millionaires in the city.
• ‘The Great Gatsby’: Tom and Blanche Like Tom, Blanche in the book of Street Car Named Desire, is loyal to her sister who is the only member of her family that we come across.
• Gatsby & Jean Valjean He is a mysterious person, and no one exactly knows his origins and the ways he used to acquire his fortune.
• The Ethicality of an Action Jay Gatsby As well, an action is “wrong” if it results in the opposite of happiness to the people. Mill’s utilitarian theory can be used to assess the ethically of Jay Gatsby’s action, as presented in the […]
• Francis Scott Fitzgerald & His American Dream In the novel “Tender is the Night,” Fitzgerald describes the society in Riviera where he and his family had moved to live after his misfortune of late inheritance.
• Jay Gatsby & Eponine From Les Miserables: Compare & Contrast Gatsby is the main character in the book “The Great Gatsby,” while Eponine is one of the characters in the book “Les Miserables”.
• Jay Gatsby & Gean Valjean: Characters Comparison This essay compares and contrasts the characters of Gatsby and Jean Valjean in the Les Miserable novels and films. Gatsby strikes the readers as a na ve and lovesick individual though his character is negative.
• Jay Gatsby and Valjean in ‘Les Miserables’: Comparative Valjean’s life contains a series of misfortunes in the sense that he has to hide his true identity. Most of the people in his life were there just for convenience and for the fact that […]
• The Idea of Love in The Great Gatsby and the Parallels or Contrasts That Can Be Drawn With the Presentation of Love in The Catcher in the Rye Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby and Jerome Salinger’s The Catcher in the Rye, it is possible to state that the notion of love is presented there similarly even though the texts are absolutely different and […]
• What Are the Literary Devices Used to Create the Image of Jay Gatsby?
• Analyze How Fitzgerald Uses Imagery in the Great Gatsby
• What Do Colors Symbolize in the Great Gatsby?
• How Does Fitzgerald Use Geographical Setting to Show the Contrast Between Social Classes in the Novel?
• How Does Fitzgerald Convey a Notion of the American Dream Through Metaphors and Symbols?
• What Does the Green Light in Daisy’s Window Represent in the Great Gatsby?
• What Does the Valley of Ashes Symbolize in the Great Gatsby?
• What Role Does Nick Carraway’s Narration Play in the Story? If We Got It Through an Omniscient Third-Person Narrator, What Would We Gain or Lose?
• Could the Story Have Been Set in Other Places, Like Chicago or Los Angeles, or Were New York City and Long Island Absolutely Necessary?
• Look at the Novel’s Opening Lines. If We Accept Nick’s Advice When We Read the Story, Will Our Views of It Change? Or, in Other Words, Does Refraining From Criticism Promote Compassion?
• Is There a Hidden Meaning of the Title of the Great Gatsby? What Is It?
• How Is the Color White Used Within the Novel? When Does It Make a False Representation of Innocence? When Does It Truly Represent Innocence?
• What Is the Role of a New York Setting in the Novel’s Storyline?
• What Is the Real Meaning of ‘Great’ in the Title of the Great Gatsby?
• What Significance Do Colors Have in the Party’s Descriptions in Chapter 3?
• Elaborate on the Green Light as the Symbol of the American Dream
• What Is the Meaning of the Phrase “Can’t Repeat the Past?.. Why of Course You Can!” What Does Gatsby Really Want From Daisy?
• What Role Do the Eyes of Doctor T. J. Eckleburg Play in the Great Gatsby?
• How Is the Great Gatsby a Satirical Representation of the Society?
• Are the Rich in the Novel Really So Careless as Everyone Believes Them to Be?
• Create an Alternative Ending for the Great Gatsby. Justify Your Choice
• What Is the Relationship Between Those Born Rich and Those Who Became Rich in the Novel?
• Discuss Female Characters and Their Significance in the Great Gatsby
• Compare Gatsby and Wilson. In What Ways Are They Similar?
• Who Is the Most Responsible for Gatsby’s Death? Why Is It So?
• Why Do Tom and Daisy Stay Together at the End of the Novel?
• Does Gatsby’s Money Bring Him Real Happiness?
• Can Jay’s Feelings for Daisy in the Great Gatsby Be Considered Love?
• How Do Secondary Characters Affect the Story?
• Who Is the Real Hero in the Great Gatsby?
• Can We Call Jay Gatsby a Romantic Hero or a Villain?
• What Does Jay Gatsby Really Live For in the Novel: the Present or the Past?
• Compare Myrtle and Daisy
• What Does Tom’s Quarrel With Myrtle in Chapter 2 Tell Us About His Personality?
• Elaborate on How Both Tom and Gatsby Want to Change Not Only the Future, but the Past in Chapter 7.
• What Was Gatsby’s Power of Dreaming Like? Was Daisy a Worth Object?
• Is Anyone to Blame for Gatsby’s Death?
• Are There Any Moral Characters in the Novel?
• Can Jordan and Daisy Be Considered Perfect Role Models for the Upper Class in America? Why or Why Not?
• Is Gatsby Really Great? In What Way? How Does His Greatness Evolve as the Plot Unfolds?
• How Does Nick’s Character Change over the Course of the Great Gatsby?
• Does Gatsby Deserve the Definition of a Self-Made Man? Why or Why Not?
• What Role Does Daisy Play in the Conflict Between Gatsby & Tom?
• Describe How F.S. Fitzgerald’s Life Experiences Influenced the Great Gatsby
• What Are the Central Themes in the Great Gatsby?
• What Roles Do Fidelity and Infidelity Play in Fitzgerald’s the Great Gatsby?
• What Importance Does Sex Have in the Story?
• What Role Does Alcohol Play in the Great Gatsby by Fitzgerald?
• Did Fitzgerald Really Criticize the Idea of the American Dream in the Great Gatsby?
• Does Love Play Have Any Importance in the Great Gatsby?
• What Role Does the Relationship Between Geography and Social Values Play in the Novel?
• What Is the Meaning of Time in the Great Gatsby?
• How Do the Aristocratic East Eggers, Tom and the Sloanes, Regard Gatsby in Chapter 6? How Is Their Contempt Connected to the Theme of Social Class in the Novel?
• Analyze the Great Gatsby Through the Prism of Feminist Theory
• How Are the Themes of Kindness and Compassion Presented in the Great Gatsby?
• Describe How the Theme of Ambition Is Presented in the Novel
• Elaborate on How Fitzgerald Contrasts Education and Experience in the Great Gatsby
• Make a Critical Comparison of the Novel With the 2013 Movie
• Make a Comparison of the Novel With the 1949 Movie
• Compare the Great Gatsby Movies of 1949 and 2013
• Compare and Contrast Two Classic American Novels: The Great Gatsbyand the Grapes of Wrath
• How Are Donald Trump and the Great Gatsby’s Tom Buchanan Alike?
• Compare Miller’s Death of a Salesman and the Great Gatsby
• What Other Fictional or Non-fictional Character From a Book or Movie Can Nick Carraway Be Compared To?
• Make a Critical Comparison of the Sun Also Rises and the Great Gatsby
• Compare the Great Gatsby With a Farewell to Arms
• Make a Comparison of Daisy From the Great Gatsby With Henrietta Bingham From Irresistible
• What Pop Stars of Nowadays Daisy Can Be Compared To?
• Macbeth vs. Jay Gatsby: Make a Character Comparison
• Why does Daisy cry about the shirts in chapter 5 of The Great Gatsby?
• What is Daisy’s opinion of Gatsby’s party in chapter 6?
• How does The Great Gatsby explore the ideas of illusion versus reality?
• How did Gatsby measure the success of his party in chapter 6?
• What is the true relationship between Daisy and Tom in The Great Gatsby?
• What does Gatsby tell Nick about himself and his past?
• What role do the first lines of The Great Gatsby play?
• What destroyed Gatsby’s dreams in The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald?
• What is the cause of the problem between Jordan and Nick?
• Describe Daisy and Gatsby’s new relationship. What is it like?
• Why does Jordan want to leave the group from East Egg?
• What does Old Money vs. New Money mean in The Great Gatsby?
• Which excerpt from The Great Gatsby is the best example of foreshadowing?
• How does Fitzgerald represent the society of his time in thenovel? Would you like to live in the Jazz Era? Why or why not?
• How does Nick describe himself at the beginning of The Great Gatsby?
• How do we know that Myrtle Wilson is not an intellectual?
• Who does the narrator think Daisy is at the end of the story?
• What role does the book “The Rise of the Colored Empires” play in The Great Gatsby?
• How is America shown in The Great Gatsby? What values do the East and the West represent?
• Why did Gatsby fail to achieve the American Dream?
• How did F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel The Great Gatsby reflect the culture of the 1920s?
• Which excerpt from The Great Gatsby best indicates that Nick is not fully content with his life?
• What role does social class in The Great Gatsby play?
• What does Nick mean by the last line of The Great Gatsby?
• What are the main differences between The Great Gatsby book and movie?
• How does Fitzgerald provide a critical social history of Prohibition-Era America in his novel?
• How does Nick know Daisy and Tom in The Great Gatsby?
• What did Dan Cody do for Gatsby? What did Gatsby learn from him?
• How does Myrtle behave as the party progresses in chapter 2?
• Describe the meeting between Gatsby and Daisy in chapter 5. What was it like?
• Hedonism and consumerism of the Roaring Twenties in The Great Gatsby . In The Great Gatsby , the author presents the idea of overconsumption and surrendering to guilty pleasures. What are the main aspects of this topic?
• Jordan Baker in The Great Gatsby from a feminist point of view. Jordan Baker is one of the “flapper girls” who aren’t afraid to dress and act as they want. You can analyze her character from the perspective of the beginning of the feminist movement in the 1920s.
• The process of understanding The Great Gatsby and how it reinforces racist ideas. Understanding the reading material is a very individual process. How, in your opinion, should modern students interpret the racist ideas in The Great Gatsby ?
• The shadow of the war experience in The Great Gatsby . In the Roaring Twenties, people glorified drinking, partying, and blowing money, while ignoring the veterans. What do you think about this idea described in Fitzgerald’s novel?
• Colonial mentality in The Great Gatsby . Racial and ethnic issues are among the novel’s main topics. Discuss this question from the perspective of colonial mentality and postcolonialism.
• How does The Great Gatsby reflect the Jazz Age?
• What were the rumors about Gatsby?
• What does The Great Gatsby’s ending mean?
• What part does social class play in The Great Gatsby?
• Why was young Gatsby drawn to Daisy?
• How does Nick describe Tom Buchanan in chapter 1?
• In The Great Gatsby, is Nick a reliable narrator?
• What is the main conflict in The Great Gatsby?
• How does Nick meet Gatsby for the first time?
• Why is Gatsby great?
• How women are portrayed in The Great Gatsby?
• Who killed Myrtle in The Great Gatsby?
• What was Jay Gatsby’s real name & background?
• How is Gatsby different from his guests?
• Who killed Gatsby and how did that happen?
• In chapter 7, why does Gatsby stop giving parties?
• Does money buy love in The Great Gatsby?
• What does “owl eyes” reveal about Gatsby’s books?
• What does Gatsby want from Daisy in chapter 6?
• How does the Narrator describe Gatsby?
• What is Gatsby doing when Nick first sees him?
• How did Gatsby get rich?
• Is The Great Gatsby about love or money?
• Why did Daisy marry Tom in The Great Gatsby?
• What role does Dan Cody’s yacht play in Great Gatsby?
• Who attended Gatsby’s funeral?
• What is the climax of The Great Gatsby?
• What is Gatsby’s real history?
• How is society shown in The Great Gatsby?
• What does “her voice is full of money” mean?

The Great Gatsby Symbolism

Numerous symbols in The Great Gatsby have important meanings. Some of the most discussed ones are the green light, Gatsby’s car, and his parties. Every reader interprets them differently. There are still some good suggestions pointing at Gatsby’s hopes and dreams.

Roaring 20s in The Great Gatsby

The Roaring Twenties brought numerous changes to American society. In The Great Gatsby , every character represents at least one of them. For example, Jordan Baker is a part of the “flapper girl” culture, while Gatsby uses the Prohibition to his own advantage and makes a fortune on bootlegging.

Does Money Give Gatsby True Happiness?

Despite the widespread belief that money brings happiness, Gatsby isn’t happy. He was insanely rich, but his true joy was being with Daisy. Throughout the novel, he tries to gain her attention by throwing huge parties and showing off his wealth. Money is simply a tool for Gatsby.

Bootlegging in The Great Gatsby

The Great Gatsby is set during the Prohibition era when alcohol wasn’t allowed in the US. Still, those who desperately wanted to get a drink found ways to do it. Gatsby was one of the dealers, called bootleggers, who sold alcohol illegally. It explains why he’s so rich.

What Stands Out about Daisy Buchanan?

Gatsby is obsessed with Daisy Buchanan. She’s portrayed as beautiful and elegant but shallow. Nick describes her as a girl who breaks things and uses money to cover things up. At the same time, she stands out with one thing—her voice. Daisy has an angelic, irresistible voice “full of money.”

The Great Gatsby, the masterpiece written by F. Scott Fitzgerald, will help you dive into the Roaring Twenties’ wealth atmosphere. This is a story of a millionaire Jay Gatsby and his passion for the beautiful Daisy Buchanan

Your professor may ask you to analyze topics such as decadence, money, American Dream, or symbolism in your The Great Gatsby Essay. But what if you have no idea what to write? Well, below, you can find some tips and essay samples that you may use to compose your papers

Tip #1. Analyze symbolism in The Great Gatsby

First, let’s define what symbolism is. According to Merriam-Webster dictionary, symbolism is “practice of using symbols, especially by investing things with a symbolic meaning or by expressing the invisible or intangible using visible or sensuous representations.” The Great Gatsby story is full of symbols. And here are just two examples of them:

• The eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg painted on a billboard in the Valley of Ashes. You can find a lot of The Great Gatsby essay samples that draw the conclusion that Eckleburg represents God. However, let’s ask a few more questions. Why do these eyes have no mouth or arms, or legs? Does this mean that Eckleburg can only watch people transgressions without any ability to punish them as a God-like entity? Does this billboard mean anything?
• Use of color in Fitzgerald’s story. If you carefully read the novel, you might notice the use of a few colors throughout the book. They are green, gray, gold, and yellow. Think, what do these colors can symbolize and represent these ideas in your paper.

Tip #2. Think about point of view in The Great Gatsby

The Great Gatsby is written in the first-person point of view. Nick Carraway, one of the main characters, tells us about the life and thoughts of Gatsby. In your writing, you can imagine how different the novel would be if it were told in the third-person point of view.

You also can provide some examples if the story was told from Gatsby’s perspective.

Tip #3. Assess how the book relates to the American Dream

If you look through the vast majority The Great Gatsby essay titles, you can find out plenty of samples that address the validity of high society or the social class divide. Gatsby had achieved the American Dream by building his wealth. However, he’s still not satisfied with the shallowness of the upper class and wants something more.

In your paper, you can argue why does one can never attain the American Dream, and why dreamers always want more.

Tip #4. Analyze the characters and their relations

Fitzgerald put each character into the novel for a particular reason. And your job is to analyze what they represent and why they are in the story. For example, Tom represents evil, while Daisy represents innocence. Another aspect you should examine is relationships between Daisy and Gatsby, Tom and Daisy, Nick and Gatsby.

Tip #5. Examine the tone of the novel

When we talk about the tone of the story, we mean how the author describes the events and characters. In your paper, decide what the tone of the novel is and analyze how it affects the readers’ attitude to characters and events.

Now, check out The Great Gatsby essay examples above and use the acquired ideas to write your own paper!

• Short Summary
• Summary (Chapter 1)
• Summary (Chapter 2)
• Summary (Chapter 3)
• Summary (Chapter 4)
• Summary (Chapter 5)
• Summary (Chapter 6)
• Summary (Chapter 7)
• Summary (Chapter 8)
• Summary (Chapter 9)
• Symbolism & Style
• Quotes Explained
• Questions & Answers
• F. Scott Fitzgerald’s Biography
• A Good Man Is Hard to Find Essay Ideas
• The Road Not Taken Topics
• The Yellow Wallpaper Ideas
• Their Eyes Were Watching God Ideas
• The Picture of Dorian Gray Questions
• Heart of Darkness Essay Ideas
• Jane Eyre Ideas
• The Old Man and the Sea Research Topics
• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

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20 The Great Gatsby Essay Topics

Hailed as one of the greatest novels of the 20th century, The Great Gatsby is a story that explores love, betrayal, and the pursuit of the American dream in the 1920s.

If you have been asked to write an essay on this classic novel, you might be a little nervous trying to figure out what you should include. However, don’t worry! This guide will walk you through the process of writing an excellent Gatsby essay and provide 20 The Great Gatsby essay topic ideas.

Essay Writing Essentials

Before you can write an essay on The Great Gatsby, you need to understand the basics of essay writing. This includes developing a clear thesis, supporting your claims with evidence from the book, and crafting a solid conclusion.

Writing a Thesis

A thesis statement details the overall point or argument you intend to make in the essay. Therefore, a thesis statement must be clear, specific, and arguable. A thesis statement will be best placed at the end of your first paragraph or as a way to wrap up your introduction if it is multiple paragraphs.

Some examples of well-written thesis statements for a The Great Gatsby include:

“While The Great Gatsby appears to be a novel about love, in reality, it is a scathing critique of the American dream.”

“Though Jay Gatsby is wealthy and well-liked, he is ultimately a tragic figure because he cannot escape his past.”

“The relationships in The Great Gatsby are all ultimately doomed because the characters are not honest with each other or themselves.”

Developing Supporting Claims for the Body

To support your thesis statement, you will need to include evidence from the novel in the form of quotes and analysis. It is vital that you choose passages that directly relate to your thesis and that you explain how these quotes support your argument.

One way to find quotes that support your thesis is to look for passages that seem particularly significant or interesting to you. Then, once you have a few potential quotes in mind, try to come up with a sentence or two explaining how the quote supports your argument. This will help you determine if the quote is actually relevant to your essay or if you need to keep looking.

It can also be helpful to go back to your list of potential thesis statements and look for quotes that could support each one. This way, you can get a sense of which quotes will be most beneficial for your essay before writing.

Crafting a Strong Conclusion

Your conclusion should briefly summarize the main points of your essay and reiterate your thesis statement. You might also want to leave the reader with something to think about or a call to action if you feel strongly about the issue you have been discussing.

A strong conclusion might look something like this:

“Though Gatsby’s pursuit of the American dream is ultimately fruitless, his efforts are nonetheless admirable. His willingness to fight for what he wants, even in the face of overwhelming odds, is something that we can all learn from.”

Citing and Formatting Essays About Books

In addition to using evidence from the novel to support your claims, you will also need to cite any sources you use in your essay. This includes any quotes or paraphrases from The Great Gatsby and any outside sources you might have used.

Citing Sources

When citing a quote from The Great Gatsby, you will need to include the page number in parentheses after the quote. For example:

“Daisy’s voice was sad ‘I hope she’ll be a fool – that’s the best thing a girl can be in this world, a beautiful little fool.'” (10).

If you are paraphrasing or summarizing a passage from The Great Gatsby, you will just need to include the page number in parentheses after the paraphrase. For example:

Gatsby’s wealth is often seen as a symbol of his success, but it is also clear that money cannot buy happiness. (21)

If you cite an outside source, you will need to include both the author’s name and the page number (or, for sources that don’t use page numbers, the section or chapter number) in parentheses after the quote. For example:

“The Great Gatsby is widely regarded as a masterpiece of American fiction” (Baldwin 3).

Formatting an Essay About a Book

When formatting your essay, there are a few key things you need to keep in mind. First, all mentions of the book’s title need to be italicized or underlined. Second, your essay should have one-inch margins on all sides.

Your essay should also have a title page that includes the title of your essay, your name, and the name of your class. If you are writing a longer essay (5 or more pages), you may need to also include a header on each page. It’s best to speak with your instructor to clarify any specific formatting requirements for the assignment.

Now that you know how to write an essay on The Great Gatsby, you can start brainstorming potential topics for your paper. If you are having trouble, consider using or adapting one of the following topics.

• How does Gatsby’s wealth (or lack thereof) impact his relationships?
• How does Gatsby’s pursuit of the American dream ultimately fail?
• What role do women play in The Great Gatsby?
• How are the parties that Gatsby throws symbolic of his own emptiness?
• How does Fitzgerald use symbolism to comment on the state of the American dream?
• What role does fate play in The Great Gatsby?
• Is Gatsby a tragic hero? If so, why?
• How is The Great Gatsby an example of the “Lost Generation”?
• What role does the past play in The Great Gatsby?
• How do the relationships between men and women change throughout the novel?
• How is The Great Gatsby a commentary on the class divisions in American society?
• What role does morality play in The Great Gatsby?
• How do the characters in The Great Gatsby represent different aspects of the American dream?
• What role does money play in The Great Gatsby?
• Is Gatsby a sympathetic character? Why or why not?
• How is Nick Carraway’s role as narrator important to the novel?
• How does Fitzgerald use setting to comment on the characters and events in The Great Gatsby?
• What role do secrets play in The Great Gatsby?
• How is The Great Gatsby a commentary on the corruption of the American dream?
• What theme(s) are explored in The Great Gatsby?

These topics should provide any student assigned an essay on The Great Gatsby with plenty to write about. If you need further help, consider using or adapting one of these topics for your own paper.

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The Great Gatsby Study Questions

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Published: Mar 19, 2024

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Table of contents

I. introduction, a. the great gatsby by f. scott fitzgerald is a timeless classic that delves into the complexities of love, wealth, and society during the roaring twenties. set against the backdrop of the glitz and glamour of the jazz age, the novel follows the enigmatic jay gatsby as he pursues the elusive daisy buchanan, ultimately leading to themes of ambition, disillusionment, and the pursuit of the american dream., b. studying the great gatsby is essential for readers to gain a deeper understanding of the societal norms and values of the 1920s, as well as to explore the universal themes that resonate with audiences across generations. by analyzing the symbolism and themes within the novel, readers can uncover layers of meaning and insight into the characters and their motivations., c. thesis statement: this essay will explore various study questions related to the great gatsby, including an analysis of symbolism and themes such as the green light, the american dream, and the valley of ashes. additionally, it will delve into character analysis, focusing on the complex personalities of jay gatsby, daisy buchanan, and the role of nick carraway as the narrator., ii. symbolism and themes, a. the green light symbol in the great gatsby represents gatsby's hopes and dreams, as well as his unattainable desire for the past. by examining the significance of the green light, readers can gain insight into gatsby's character and his pursuit of a dream that ultimately proves to be fleeting., b. the american dream theme in the great gatsby explores the idea of success, wealth, and social status in the context of 1920s america. through the characters' aspirations and struggles to achieve their version of the american dream, fitzgerald critiques the shallow materialism and moral decay of the era., c. the symbolism of the valley of ashes in the great gatsby serves as a stark contrast to the opulence of east and west egg, representing the desolation and decay that lurks beneath the surface of the american dream. by analyzing the valley of ashes, readers can uncover the novel's commentary on the harsh realities of class disparity and social inequality., v. love and relationships, a. gatsby's obsession with daisy is a central theme in the great gatsby, driving much of the plot and character development. his unrelenting pursuit of daisy, who represents his idealized vision of love and success, ultimately leads to his downfall., b. the love triangle between gatsby, daisy, and tom buchanan highlights the complexities of relationships in a society governed by wealth and social status. while gatsby sees daisy as his ticket to a better life, she remains torn between her feelings for him and her loyalty to her husband, tom., c. the theme of unrequited love is prevalent throughout the novel, as characters grapple with unattainable desires and unfulfilled dreams. from gatsby's longing for daisy to myrtle wilson's infatuation with tom, the novel explores the destructive power of unrequited love and the ways in which it shapes the characters' choices and actions., vi. conclusion, a. in conclusion, the great gatsby offers a nuanced portrayal of love, wealth, and society during the roaring twenties, shedding light on the complexities of human relationships and the pursuit of the american dream. by analyzing the symbolism, themes, and character dynamics within the novel, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the societal norms and values of the era, as well as explore universal themes that resonate with audiences today., b. the study questions raised by the great gatsby invite readers to reflect on the nature of ambition, disillusionment, and the pursuit of happiness in a society marked by excess and decay. through the lens of fitzgerald's masterpiece, readers are challenged to reconsider their own values and beliefs, and to ponder the enduring power of love, wealth, and the american dream..

• C. Ultimately, The Great Gatsby remains a timeless classic that continues to captivate readers with its rich symbolism, complex characters, and profound themes. As we delve into the world of Jay Gatsby, Daisy Buchanan, and Nick Carraway, we are reminded of the enduring allure of the Jazz Age and the enduring truths that lie at the heart of this literary masterpiece.

C. Ultimately, The Great Gatsby remains a timeless classic that continues to captivate readers with its rich symbolism, complex characters , and profound themes. As we delve into the world of Jay Gatsby, Daisy Buchanan, and Nick Carraway, we are reminded of the enduring allure of the Jazz Age and the enduring truths that lie at the heart of this literary masterpiece.

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The Great Gatsby Exam Questions: Characters, Themes and Narrative Techniques

The Great Gatsby exam questions in this post are standardized essay questions that are good for anyone studying the novel for a test. Do you want an examination guide for The Great Gatsby? You can use these questions for your practice tests by providing your best answers to as many as you want.

Are you an American literature enthusiast who desires to delve into the themes and narrative style of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel, The Great Gatsby? Then these essay questions are good for you.

Utilize them as a reference point for analysing the various characters and themes in The Great Gatsby.

I’ve divided the questions into four parts:

• Questions based on the characters in the novel.
• Theme-based questions on The Great Gatsby
• Questions that assess your understanding and appreciation of the literary techniques in the narrative and
• Plot structure and plot development questions.

Exam Questions About Characters

Here are twenty likely examination questions about characters and characterization in The Great Gatsby:

1.Analyze the character of Jay Gatsby. How does his characterization evolve throughout the novel?

2. Compare and contrast the personalities of Tom Buchanan and George Wilson. How do their characterizations highlight different social classes?

3. Discuss the role of Nick Carraway as both a character and a narrator. How does his perspective influence our understanding of other characters?

4. How does F. Scott Fitzgerald use symbolism to develop the character of Daisy Buchanan?

5. Explore the motivations and complexities of Jordan Baker’s character. What role does she play in the novel’s themes?

6. In what ways does Myrtle Wilson’s characterization reflect the themes of social ambition and the American Dream?

7. Describe the character of Meyer Wolfsheim and his significance in Gatsby’s life.

8. How does the character of Klipspringer represent the shallow and materialistic aspects of the 1920s society?

9. Analyze the character of Daisy’s daughter, Pammy Buchanan, despite her limited presence in the novel.

10. What does the character of Dan Cody reveal about Gatsby’s aspirations and dreams?

11. How does Gatsby’s past, as depicted in his conversation with Nick, shape his present actions and motivations?

12. In what ways does the character of Owl Eyes serve as a symbol of the disillusionment prevalent during the Jazz Age?

13. Explore the similarities and differences between Tom and Gatsby’s views on wealth and social status.

14. Describe the character of George Wilson and the tragic role he plays in the novel’s events.

15. How does the character of Catherine contribute to the portrayal of the upper-class lifestyle in the novel?

16. Analyze the character of Henry C. Gatz (Gatsby’s father) and his relationship with his son’s dreams and legacy.

17. Discuss the portrayal of female characters in “The Great Gatsby” and their significance in the novel’s themes.

18. How does Gatsby’s character embody the concept of the “self-made man” and the pursuit of the American Dream?

19. Compare the attitudes and behaviours of the East Egg residents (like the Buchanans) and the West Egg residents (like Gatsby) and how they reflect the theme of social class.

20. In your opinion, which character in “The Great Gatsby” undergoes the most significant transformation throughout the novel, and why?

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Questions on Themes

21. Discuss the theme of the American Dream in “The Great Gatsby” and how it is portrayed through various characters.

22. Analyze the theme of social class and its impact on the characters’ lives and relationships.

23. How is the theme of love and obsession depicted in the novel, particularly in Gatsby’s pursuit of Daisy?

24. Explore the theme of illusion and reality in “The Great Gatsby” and its significance in shaping the characters’ actions.

25. Discuss the theme of wealth and materialism and how it contributes to the characters’ motivations and aspirations.

26. How does the theme of time and its passage affect the characters and the narrative in the novel?

27. Analyze the theme of morality and the lack of ethical boundaries in the society depicted in the novel.

28. Discuss the theme of loneliness and isolation and how it affects the characters, especially Gatsby and Nick.

29. How does the theme of identity and self-invention play a crucial role in the lives of various characters in the story?

30. Explore the theme of fate and the inevitability of certain events in the novel.

31. Discuss the theme of memory and nostalgia in “The Great Gatsby” and its influence on the characters’ actions and motivations.

32. How does the theme of excess and hedonism contribute to the portrayal of the Roaring Twenties in the novel?

33. Analyze the theme of betrayal and its consequences on relationships among the characters.

34. Discuss the theme of disillusionment and its prevalence among the characters in the novel.

35. How does the theme of gender roles and expectations shape the actions and decisions of the characters?

36. Explore the theme of social mobility and the challenges faced by characters trying to rise above their social status.

37. Analyze the theme of appearance versus reality and how it impacts the characters’ perceptions of each other.

38. Discuss the theme of hope and its significance in Gatsby’s pursuit of Daisy.

39. How does the theme of West versus East symbolize different aspects of American society during the 1920s?

40. Explore the theme of power and its corrupting influence on certain characters in the novel.

41. Discuss the theme of fate versus free will and how it affects the characters’ destinies.

42. How does the theme of nature versus civilization reflect the contrasting elements in the novel?

43. Analyze the theme of social decay and the decline of traditional values in the society depicted in the novel.

44. Discuss the theme of accountability and the lack of consequences for immoral actions in the story.

45. How does the theme of religion and spirituality (or lack thereof) in The Great Gatsby influence the characters’ worldviews and actions?

46. Analyze the theme of the past and its hold on the present lives of the characters.

47. Discuss the theme of the outsider and how it applies to characters like Gatsby and Nick.

48. How does the theme of judgment and superficiality manifest in the characters’ interactions?

49. Explore the theme of the pursuit of happiness and its connection to the characters’ desires in The Great Gatsby.

50. Discuss the theme of social critique in “The Great Gatsby” and how it reflects the author’s commentary on the era.

Exam Questions on Narrative Techniques in The Great Gatsby

Let’s now have the most possible examination questions about the writer’s use of narrative techniques and other literary devices in The Great Gatsby.

51. How does F. Scott Fitzgerald use first-person narration through Nick Carraway to shape the reader’s perspective on the events in the novel?

52. Discuss the significance of the novel’s non-linear narrative structure and how it contributes to the themes and character development.

53. Analyze the use of symbolism in “The Great Gatsby” and its impact on the story’s themes and messages.

54. How does the recurring motif of the green light at the end of Daisy’s dock symbolize different aspects throughout the novel?

55. Explore the significance of the eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg as a recurring symbol in the novel.

56. Discuss the role of the weather and nature as a literary device in “The Great Gatsby” and how they mirror the characters’ emotions and circumstances.

57. How does the use of flashbacks enhance our understanding of Gatsby’s past and his motivations?

58. Analyze the theme of colour symbolism in the novel, particularly the colours associated with different characters and settings.

59. Discuss the use of irony in “The Great Gatsby” and its effects on the reader’s interpretation of the characters and plot.

60. How does the author use foreshadowing to build tension and anticipation in the narrative?

61. Explore the significance of the parties and social gatherings as literary devices that reflect the hedonistic atmosphere of the Jazz Age in The Great Gatsby.

62. Discuss the use of allusions in the novel, such as references to mythology and historical events, and their impact on the story.

63. Analyze the role of music and popular culture references in “The Great Gatsby” and their influence on the characters and themes.

64. How does F. Scott Fitzgerald use repetition and parallelism to emphasize certain ideas and motifs in the novel?

65. Discuss the role of setting and the contrast between East Egg, West Egg, and the Valley of Ashes in conveying themes and atmosphere.

66. Explore the significance of the automobile as a symbol of modernity and its role in the novel’s themes and plot developments.

67. How does the author employ dramatic irony to create tension and deepen the reader’s understanding of the characters’ actions in The Great Gatsby?

68. Discuss the use of poetic language and imagery in “The Great Gatsby” and its impact on the overall narrative.

69. Analyze the influence of the Jazz Age and the Roaring Twenties on the novel’s style and themes.

70. How does F. Scott Fitzgerald use Nick’s observations and reflections to convey the novel’s themes of disillusionment and moral decay?

71. Discuss the significance of the title “The Great Gatsby” and its connection to the central themes of the novel.

72. How does the author of The Great Gatsby utilize dialogue to reveal the characters’ personalities and motivations?

73. Analyze the narrative tone and its effect on the reader’s emotional engagement with the story.

74. Discuss the use of weather symbolism in The Great Gatsby and its connection to the novel’s major plot points and emotional arcs.

75. How does Fitzgerald employ literary devices to depict the contrasting worlds of the rich and the poor in The Great Gatsby?

76. Explore the role of minor characters, such as Owl Eyes and Klipspringer, in adding depth to the story’s themes.

77. Discuss the use of literary foils in “The Great Gatsby” and how they highlight certain qualities of the main characters.

78. Analyze the significance of the novel’s final sentences and how they encapsulate the story’s themes and messages.

79. How does Fitzgerald employ descriptive language and sensory imagery to immerse the reader in the setting and atmosphere of The Great Gatsby?

80. Discuss the impact of the novel’s closing words and how they leave a lasting impression on the reader’s interpretation of the narrative.

Exam Questions on the Plot of The Great Gatsby

See below likely exam questions on plot structure and plot development in “The Great Gatsby”:

81. Analyze the exposition of “The Great Gatsby” and its role in introducing the main characters and setting the stage for the story’s conflicts.

82. How does the inciting incident, represented by Jay Gatsby’s introduction to Nick Carraway, spark the major conflicts in the novel?

83. Discuss the rising action in “The Great Gatsby” and how it builds tension leading up to the climactic events.

84. Explore the significance of the novel’s major turning points, such as Gatsby’s reunion with Daisy and the revelation of Gatsby’s past.

85. How does the author use foreshadowing to hint at the tragic events that unfold later in the plot?

86 .Analyze the climax of the novel and its impact on the characters and overall themes.

87. Discuss the falling action and resolution of “The Great Gatsby,” and how they address the story’s conflicts and character arcs.

88. How does F. Scott Fitzgerald use flashback sequences to provide essential background information and shape the plot’s structure?

89. Analyze the plot’s subplots, such as Tom Buchanan’s affair and George Wilson’s pursuit of the truth, and their connection to the main narrative.

90. Discuss the role of coincidences and chance encounters in advancing the plot and character development.

91. How does the party at Myrtle Wilson’s apartment contribute to the plot’s development and the novel’s overall themes?

92. Analyze the significance of the car accident in the plot and its consequences on the characters’ lives.

93. Discuss the role of misunderstandings and miscommunications in shaping the plot’s conflicts and resolutions.

94. How does the author use pacing and narrative structure to create a sense of urgency and suspense in the plot?

95. Explore the novel’s denouement and the implications of the closing events on the characters’ futures and the themes of the story.

Final Thoughts

I trust that these likely exam questions on The Great Gatsby will help you to identify the key issues in the novel that may come up in your Literature test.

You can find many other past questions and likely questions for your preferred subjects on this site.

Cegast Academy empowers students, mature learners, teachers, and parents with top-notch educational resources and publishing services. The centre boasts of a rich experience in English and Literature tutoring with a proven track record. Since 2001, Cegast Academy has successfully coached thousands of High School General Arts WASSCE candidates in English, Literature, and related subjects. With a combination of expertise and a passion for lifelong learning, the platform guides learners from diverse backgrounds to achieve their educational and career goals.

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'The Great Gatsby' Study Questions

Points for Discussing F. Scott Fitzgerald's Famous Jazz Age Novel

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" The Great Gatsby " is American author F. Scott Fitzgerald's most famous novel. The story, a symbolic portrayal of the decline of the American Dream, is an accurate depiction of the Jazz Age that cemented Fitzgerald as a fixture in literary history. Fitzgerald is a master storyteller who layers his novels with themes and symbolism.

Study Questions

Here are some questions around which to build a lively discussion for your next book club meeting:

• What is important about the title of "The Great Gatsby?"
• Which adaptations of the novel have you seen? What did you think of them?
• What are the conflicts in "The Great Gatsby"? What types of conflicts—physical, moral, intellectual, or emotional—figure in this novel? Are they resolved?
• Why is Gatsby unable to put the past behind him? Why does he demand that Daisy renounce her former love for her husband?
• What choice would you have made in Daisy's situation?
• What role does Daisy play in Gatsby's downfall?
• How is alcohol used in the novel?
• Why do you think the author chose to tell the story from the perspective of Nick, a friend of Gatsby?
• How does Fitzgerald reveal character in "The Great Gatsby?"
• How is class depicted in the novel? What point is the author trying to make?
• What are some themes and symbols in "The Great Gatsby?"
• What does the green light represent?
• Why does the author call our attention to the billboard advertising Dr. T.J. Eckleburg, an optometrist? What is the meaning of the vacant eyes that watch the characters?
• Is Gatsby consistent in his actions? Why did he change his name? Do you ever find him fake or contrived? Is he a fully developed character?
• Do you consider Gatsby to be a "self-made man"? Is he a good portrayal of achieving the American Dream?
• Do you find the characters likable? Would you want to meet them?
• Did the novel end the way you expected?
• How essential is the setting? Could the story have taken place anywhere else or at any other time?
• What do you think the lavish parties at Gatsby's mansion were meant to represent? What is the author trying to say about American culture?
• What is the role of women in "The Great Gatsby?" Is love relevant? Are relationships meaningful?
• What do you think about Daisy's assessment that women must be pretty but unintelligent if they want to be happy? What in her life led her to this conclusion?
• Why is "The Great Gatsby" controversial ? Why has it been banned/challenged?
• How does religion figure into the novel? How would the novel be different if religion or spirituality played a more prominent role in the text?
• How does "The Great Gatsby" relate to current society? How well did it represent the Jazz Age (society and literature) at the time it was published? Is the novel still relevant?
• Would you recommend "The Great Gatsby" to a friend?
• What is the role of women in 'The Great Gatsby'?
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