L10.pptx

# The turning point of the novel This chapter signifies the critical transition in *The Great Gatsby* from Gatsby's optimistic pursuit of his dream to a profound sense of disillusionment, marked by the collapse of illusions and an evident critique of the American Dream. ### 1.1 The shift from dream to disillusionment Chapter 7 represents a pivotal moment where the narrative arc moves from anticipation and hope to collapse and chaos. This transition is driven by several key events: the confrontation scene between Gatsby and Tom, Daisy's indecision, and the tragic death of Myrtle Wilson. These occurrences collectively dismantle the illusions that have sustained Gatsby's dream, revealing the stark realities and moral ambiguities underlying the characters and their world. ### 1.2 The oppressive atmosphere of heat The oppressive summer heat serves as a potent symbol of the rising emotional and moral tension among the characters. This intense weather mirrors the characters' discomfort, agitation, and irritability, reflecting their relationships reaching a breaking point. The heat also symbolizes exhaustion and exposure, suggesting that secrets and underlying conflicts can no longer remain hidden. > **Tip:** Consider how the weather in literature often reflects the internal states of characters or the mood of a narrative. ### 1.3 Changing settings and shattered illusions The narrative's shift from Gatsby's opulent mansion to the confines of the Plaza Hotel in New York signifies a collapse in Gatsby's projected image of social success. The cessation of Gatsby's extravagant parties indicates the waning of his illusion. His mansion becomes quiet and empty, mirroring his internal disillusionment. The scene at the Plaza Hotel marks the dismantling of Gatsby's dream. This illusion is further shattered when Gatsby encounters Daisy's daughter, who prompts Daisy to "show off" her child. This moment reveals the impossibility of Gatsby's fantasy of erasing the past five years of Daisy's life and reclaiming her as he envisioned. ### 1.4 Daisy's emotional collapse and the critique of her character Daisy's inability to make a definitive choice between Tom and Gatsby exposes her weakness and indecisiveness. Her declaration, "I did love him once – but I loved you too," irrevocably damages Gatsby's dream and introduces a moral and emotional ambiguity that he cannot reconcile. Her actions, such as showing off her daughter and discussing her wedding, indirectly underscore the reality of the life Gatsby wishes to erase. Fitzgerald uses Daisy's frailty and uncertainty to critique the emotional superficiality and moral carelessness prevalent among the wealthy elite of the era. ### 1.5 The confrontation: Tom versus Gatsby The climax of the chapter is the confrontation between Tom and Gatsby at the Plaza Hotel. Tom exposes Gatsby's criminal activities, particularly his involvement in bootlegging, and belittles him as socially inferior. This exchange highlights the stark class conflict between old money and new money. Tom's explicit racism further undermines Gatsby's illusion of social equality, demonstrating that in their world, love cannot transcend class barriers. Despite his own infidelity, Tom adopts a hypocritical moral stance, questioning Gatsby's disruption of his household. ### 1.6 Myrtle's death: the tragic price of ambition Myrtle Wilson's death, caused by Daisy driving Gatsby's car, becomes a pivotal tragic event. Gatsby, in a desperate attempt to protect Daisy, takes the blame. Myrtle's death occurs while she is chasing the car, a potent symbol of the wealth and status she desperately desires but can never truly attain. Myrtle's mangled body becomes a gruesome symbol of the cost of ambition, her dream of wealth and glamour literally crushed by the very machinery of that dream. The yellow car, previously associated with Gatsby's prosperity, transforms into an instrument of destruction, suggesting that the pursuit of material success can lead to moral ruin. This scene intertwines themes of class, illusion, and moral blindness. Gatsby's dream is destroyed by Daisy's recklessness, and Myrtle's dream is physically annihilated by the symbols of luxury. Myrtle's death in the Valley of Ashes, a desolate area, symbolizes how those at the bottom of society bear the consequences of the dreams of the affluent. It is Myrtle, striving for wealth, who dies, not Daisy, the careless driver. Even Gatsby, the dreamer, sacrifices himself for Daisy, while she retreats into her privileged comfort. The narrative implies that the American Dream rewards corruption and carelessness rather than virtue or genuine effort. The privileged are shielded by their status, while the less fortunate are destroyed by their aspirations. Nick observes Daisy's voice as being "full of money," highlighting that her allure is inseparable from her wealth and status, a privilege Myrtle lacks. By the chapter's end, Nick recognizes Tom and Daisy's shared self-preservation and emotional detachment, noting that they "were conspiring together." ### 1.7 The death of a dream and the American Dream's critique Following the confrontation and Myrtle's death, the American Dream, as depicted in the novel, effectively collapses. Gatsby's quest for an idealized love is shattered, and Daisy and Tom retreat into their careless privilege, insulated from any real consequences. The imagery associated with the fatal car accident—blood and dust—reinforces the seductive yet ultimately destructive nature of the dream. The American Dream, presented as glamorous and opportunity-rich, instead crushes those who pursue it without the safety net of wealth or privilege. Daisy is protected by her financial security, Gatsby's protective presence, and the psychological comfort of her privileged social standing. Myrtle, however, possesses none of these safeguards. ### 1.8 Deepening moral ambiguity and Nick's realization Nick's moral awareness intensifies after the accident. He begins to perceive Gatsby not as foolish, but as a tragic figure. Nick's judgment of Tom and Daisy as "careless people" who "smashed up things and creatures and then retreated back into their money or their vast carelessness" underscores his disillusionment with their moral bankruptcy. He questions the reader's expectation of moral behavior from Daisy, given her circumstances and reactions, highlighting the complex moral landscape of the chapter. > **Example:** Nick's final observation of Tom and Daisy in the chapter, stating they "were conspiring together," illustrates his growing understanding of their shared self-interest and lack of genuine remorse, despite their different reactions to their respective wives' affairs. Tom reacts with possessiveness and moral outrage, while George, heartbroken and confused, embodies a more visceral grief. --- # Symbolism of heat and setting shifts The oppressive summer heat and the shift in setting from Gatsby's opulent mansion to the impersonal Plaza Hotel in New York City both serve as potent symbols of rising emotional tension, the collapse of illusions, and the ultimate disillusionment with the American Dream. ### 2.1 The oppressive summer heat The intense heat of the summer day in chapter 7 acts as a direct metaphor for the escalating emotional and moral tension among the characters. It symbolizes: * **Exhaustion and Agitation:** The characters are physically uncomfortable, leading to heightened irritability and agitation. This discomfort mirrors their strained relationships and the pressure building beneath the surface. * **Exposure of Secrets:** The oppressive atmosphere suggests that secrets and unspoken truths can no longer remain hidden. The heat brings everything to a boiling point, forcing confrontations and revelations. * **Relationships at a Breaking Point:** The sweltering weather is presented as a metaphor for the characters' relationships reaching a critical juncture, on the verge of collapse. > **Tip:** Consider how the weather in literature often reflects or amplifies the emotional state of the characters and the dramatic intensity of a scene. ### 2.2 The shift in setting: Gatsby's mansion to the Plaza Hotel The movement of the group from Gatsby's lavish mansion to the Plaza Hotel in New York City signifies a crucial turning point, marking the decay of Gatsby's idealized vision and the intrusion of harsh reality. #### 2.2.1 Gatsby's mansion The cessation of Gatsby's extravagant parties and the subsequent quiet and emptiness of his mansion symbolize: * **The Collapse of Social Illusion:** Gatsby's decision to stop throwing parties indicates that his grand illusion of social success and acceptance has begun to crumble. The once vibrant mansion becomes a monument to his fading dream. * **Internal Disillusionment:** The emptiness of the mansion mirrors Gatsby's own internal disillusionment as his carefully constructed world starts to unravel. #### 2.2.2 The Plaza Hotel The scene at the Plaza Hotel represents the ultimate breakdown of Gatsby's dream and the stark contrast between illusion and reality. * **Truth Replaces Performance:** The impersonal and formal setting of the hotel strips away the pretense and performance that characterized Gatsby's life. Here, truths are confronted, and facades are shed. * **Shattering of Fantasy:** Gatsby's fantasy of reclaiming Daisy is irrevocably destroyed. This is epitomized when he meets Daisy's daughter, a tangible reminder of the five years he has tried to erase and Daisy's assertion of her life with Tom. Daisy's inability to definitively choose between Tom and Gatsby ("I did love him once – but I loved you too") shatters Gatsby's idealized vision of their past and future. * **Critique of Wealth and Superficiality:** Daisy's actions, such as "showing off" her daughter or referencing her wedding at the Plaza, indirectly emphasize her life with Tom, a life Gatsby wishes to undo. This highlights Fitzgerald's critique of the emotional superficiality and moral carelessness often found among the wealthy elite. > **Example:** The contrast between the overtly ostentatious yet somewhat hollow grandeur of Gatsby's mansion and the refined, business-like atmosphere of the Plaza Hotel underscores the difference between Gatsby's manufactured persona and the established, albeit morally compromised, world of "old money" that Tom represents. --- # Daisy's character and emotional state Daisy's inability to definitively choose between Tom and Gatsby, her moral ambiguity, and her emotional superficiality are highlighted, reflecting Fitzgerald's critique of the wealthy. ### 3.1 Indecision and emotional ambiguity Daisy's core struggle in chapter 7 is her inability to make a firm choice between Tom and Gatsby, revealing a deep-seated indecisiveness that mirrors the moral ambiguity of her social class. When directly confronted by Gatsby, she confesses, "I did love him once – but I loved you too." This declaration shatters Gatsby's idealized vision of reclaiming their past and highlights Daisy's capacity to hold conflicting affections, a trait Gatsby cannot comprehend or accept. Her actions further underscore this ambiguity. She parades her daughter, Pammy, before Gatsby, a subtle assertion of the five years Gatsby wishes to erase from her life. Similarly, her mention of her wedding at the Plaza Hotel, a place of significant past and present for her and Tom, also signifies her continued connection to her established life. These instances demonstrate that despite her affair with Gatsby, her existing life and commitments remain powerful anchors. > **Tip:** Daisy's line "I did love him once – but I loved you too" is a pivotal moment. It's not just about her feelings, but about Gatsby's idealized perception of her and his inability to accept a reality that doesn't fit his dream. ### 3.2 Superficiality and moral carelessness Fitzgerald uses Daisy's character to critique the emotional superficiality and moral carelessness often associated with the wealthy elite. Her weakness and uncertainty in the face of difficult choices, coupled with her ultimate retreat into the safety of her privilege, paint a picture of someone unaccustomed to facing consequences. Her emotional state is often portrayed as volatile and reactive. For instance, she is described as being "on the verge of tears" due to the oppressive heat, suggesting a low threshold for discomfort. Her suggestions to "telephone for an axe" when Tom states there are no more windows to open further illustrate a whimsical, almost detached, approach to situations, hinting at a lack of deep emotional engagement or problem-solving capacity. Nick's later description of her and Tom as "careless people" who "smashed up things and creatures and then retreated back into their money or their vast carelessness" perfectly encapsulates this moral failing. Daisy, despite her allure, possesses a fundamental detachment from the repercussions of her actions, a privilege afforded to her by her immense wealth. > **Example:** Nick's observation that Daisy's voice "was full of money" is a significant insight into her character. It suggests that her charm and appeal are intrinsically linked to her wealth and status, rather than a deeper, intrinsic quality. This connection highlights how her allure is, in essence, a product of her social standing. ### 3.3 The "golden girl" and her retreat Daisy is often perceived as the object of Gatsby's idealized dream, a "golden girl" representing ultimate status and desirability. However, chapter 7 reveals the shallowness beneath this glittering exterior. Her voice, famously described as being "full of money," signifies that her enchantment is inextricably tied to her wealth and social position. When faced with the tragic consequences of her actions, particularly Myrtle Wilson's death, Daisy does not confront the reality. Instead, she and Tom retreat into their "money or their vast carelessness," shielded from the moral and emotional fallout. This retreat into privilege contrasts sharply with the fate of characters like Myrtle, who are destroyed by their pursuit of the very dream Daisy embodies and carelessly discards. At the chapter's conclusion, Nick observes that Tom and Daisy are united in their self-preservation, "conspiring together" to maintain their comfortable detachment from the world's harsh realities. This mutual, emotional distance underscores Daisy's ultimate commitment to her privileged existence over any genuine emotional entanglement or responsibility. --- # Confrontation and class conflict This chapter marks a significant turning point in the novel, transitioning from hopeful anticipation to disillusionment as illusions shatter and the stark realities of class conflict and moral decay are exposed. ### 4.1 The rising heat and oppressive atmosphere The oppressive summer heat serves as a powerful metaphor for the escalating emotional and moral tension among the characters. This intense weather symbolizes exhaustion, exposure, and an inevitable confrontation where secrets can no longer remain hidden. The characters' discomfort and agitation mirror their relationships reaching a breaking point. ### 4.2 The shift in setting and the collapse of illusion The narrative moves from Gatsby's once vibrant mansion, now quiet and empty, to the pressurized environment of the Plaza Hotel in New York. Gatsby's decision to stop throwing parties signifies the collapse of his illusion of social success and his internal disillusionment. The scene at the Plaza Hotel represents the crumbling of his dream, where pretense gives way to harsh truth. This is further emphasized by the unsettling encounter with Daisy's daughter, which shatters Gatsby's fantasy of completely reclaiming Daisy and erasing the past five years. ### 4.3 Daisy's emotional indecision and weakness Daisy is unable to make a definitive choice between Tom and Gatsby. Her admission, "I did love him once – but I loved you too," profoundly destroys Gatsby's dream and introduces a moral and emotional ambiguity that he cannot reconcile. Her actions, such as "showing off" her daughter and discussing her wedding at the Plaza Hotel, indirectly assert the life she has lived, which Gatsby desperately wants to erase. Daisy's wavering and uncertainty highlight Fitzgerald's critique of the superficiality and moral carelessness prevalent among the wealthy elite. ### 4.4 The central confrontation: Tom vs. Gatsby The pivotal confrontation occurs at the Plaza Hotel, where Tom Buchanan directly challenges Gatsby. Tom exposes Gatsby's criminal activities, particularly bootlegging, and denigrates him for his social inferiority, stating, "I found out what your ‘drug-stores’ were…". This exchange starkly illustrates the novel's central class conflict between "old money" and "new money." Tom's explicit racism further demolishes Gatsby's belief in equality, asserting that love cannot surmount the rigid class boundaries of their society. Hypocritically, despite his own infidelity, Tom moralizes about Daisy's virtue and accuses Gatsby of causing trouble in his home. > **Tip:** Pay close attention to how Tom uses class and racial prejudice as weapons against Gatsby. ### 4.5 Myrtle's tragic death Myrtle Wilson is killed by Daisy, who is driving Gatsby's car. Gatsby, however, takes the blame. Myrtle's death, occurring as she chases the car, symbolizes her yearning for wealth and status – an aspiration she can never truly attain. Her crushed body becomes a grim symbol of the destructive consequences of ambition. The yellow car, a symbol of Gatsby's wealth, transforms into an instrument of destruction, suggesting that the pursuit of material success can lead to moral ruin. This event intertwines class, illusion, and moral blindness: * Gatsby's dream is destroyed by Daisy's recklessness. * Myrtle's own dream is literally extinguished by the emblem of luxury. * Myrtle dies in the desolate Valley of Ashes, underscoring how those at the bottom bear the brunt of the wealthy's aspirations. * While the wealthy (Daisy) escape consequences, the striving individual (Myrtle) perishes. Gatsby's sacrifice for Daisy highlights the skewed morality of their world. > **Example:** The yellow car, previously a symbol of Gatsby's achieved status and allure, becomes the vehicle of death and destruction, illustrating how the pursuit of the American Dream can be fatal. Fitzgerald uses imagery of "blood and dust" during the accident, reflecting the seductive yet ultimately deadly nature of the American Dream. The dream, envisioned as glamorous and full of opportunity, crushes those who pursue it without inherited wealth or privilege. Daisy possesses financial security, physical protection (from Gatsby), and the psychological comfort of being privileged and well-regarded. Nick observes that Daisy's voice is "full of money," indicating her charm is inseparable from her wealth and status. Myrtle, lacking these advantages, faces a different fate. ### 4.6 The death of a dream and moral ambiguity Following the confrontation and Myrtle's death, the American Dream effectively collapses. Gatsby's pursuit of an idealized love is shattered, and Daisy and Tom retreat into their privileged, careless existence, shielded from any repercussions. Nick's realization of their mutual self-preservation and emotional detachment is evident when he notes they "were conspiring together." Nick's moral awareness sharpens as he views Gatsby as a tragic figure rather than a foolish one. He describes Tom and Daisy as "careless people" who "smashed up things and creatures and then retreated back into their money or their vast carelessness." This highlights the stark contrast between those who possess wealth and privilege and those who are destroyed by their pursuit of it. > **Tip:** Consider the contrast between Tom and George Wilson in their reactions to their wives' affairs. George's grief and anger are raw and directed, whereas Tom and Daisy's response is characterized by evasion and self-preservation. --- # Myrtle's death and the American Dream Myrtle's accidental death by Daisy in Gatsby's car serves as a tragic symbol of the destructive nature of the American Dream and the price paid by those pursuing wealth and status without privilege. ### 5.1 The turning point: disillusionment and collapse Chapter 7 marks a significant turning point in *The Great Gatsby*, transitioning the narrative from hopeful anticipation to disillusionment and chaos. This chapter witnesses the collapse of illusions, the shedding of pretenses, and the explicit revelation of F. Scott Fitzgerald's critique of the American Dream. Key events, including the confrontation between Gatsby and Tom, Daisy's indecisiveness, and Myrtle's fatal accident, converge to underscore the tragic consequences of the characters' pursuits. #### 5.1.1 The oppressive heat as a symbol of tension The intense summer heat that pervades chapter 7 serves as a potent symbol for the escalating emotional and moral tension among the characters. This oppressive weather mirrors their agitated states, exhaustion, and the impending conflicts. The heat signifies that secrets and underlying tensions can no longer remain concealed, creating an atmosphere of discomfort and irritability that foreshadows the breaking point of their relationships. #### 5.1.2 Shifting settings: from illusion to reality The shift in setting from Gatsby's opulent mansion, now quiet and empty due to his dismissal of servants, to the Plaza Hotel in New York signifies the unraveling of Gatsby's carefully constructed illusion of social success. The mansion's emptiness reflects his internal disillusionment. The Plaza Hotel scene represents the dismantling of the dream, where performance gives way to harsh truths. This is further emphasized when Gatsby encounters Daisy's daughter, shattering his fantasy of erasing the past five years and reclaiming Daisy as he imagined. #### 5.1.3 Daisy's emotional fragility and moral ambiguity Daisy's inability to definitively choose between Tom and Gatsby reveals her core weakness and superficiality. Her statement, "I did love him once – but I loved you too," shatters Gatsby's idealized vision and introduces a moral and emotional ambiguity he cannot reconcile. Her actions, such as showing off her daughter to Gatsby and mentioning her wedding at the Plaza Hotel, subtly assert her established life which Gatsby wishes to obliterate. Daisy's character highlights Fitzgerald's critique of the emotional carelessness and moral apathy prevalent among the wealthy elite. #### 5.1.4 The confrontation: old money versus new money The confrontation at the Plaza Hotel between Tom and Gatsby is a pivotal moment where class conflict is starkly illuminated. Tom exposes Gatsby's criminal activities, such as bootlegging, and denigrates his social standing, emphasizing the insurmountable divide between "old money" and "new money." Tom's explicit racism further shatters Gatsby's belief that love can transcend these class boundaries in their society. Paradoxically, Tom, despite his own infidelity, adopts a moralistic stance, questioning Gatsby's disruptive presence in his home and asserting the sanctity of family institutions. ### 5.2 Myrtle's death: the crushed american dream Myrtle Wilson's death, caused by Daisy driving Gatsby's car, is a tragic culmination of the chapter's escalating tensions and a powerful symbol of the destructive nature of the American Dream. #### 5.2.1 Myrtle as a symbol of ambition and its cost Myrtle's death occurs as she chases Gatsby's yellow car, a symbol of the wealth and status she desperately desires but can never truly attain. Her crushed body becomes a stark representation of the fatal price of ambition, her dream of glamour and affluence literally destroyed by the very machinery of that dream. The yellow car, an emblem of Gatsby's wealth, transforms into an instrument of destruction, underscoring the idea that the pursuit of material success can lead to moral ruin. #### 5.2.2 The intersection of class, illusion, and moral blindness Myrtle's death powerfully connects themes of class, illusion, and moral blindness. Gatsby's dream is irrevocably broken by Daisy's reckless act, while Myrtle's own aspirations are brutally extinguished. Significantly, Myrtle dies in the desolate Valley of Ashes, not in the opulent settings of Gatsby's mansion or Tom's estate. This location emphasizes that those at the bottom of society bear the brunt of the wealthy's aspirations and carelessness. Myrtle, the striving woman, perishes, while Daisy, the privileged driver, escapes consequence. Even Gatsby, the dreamer, sacrifices himself for Daisy, while she retreats into her privileged comfort. This scenario illustrates how the American Dream, in this context, rewards corruption and carelessness over virtue and genuine effort, shielding the rich while destroying the poor who pursue its promises. > **Tip:** Consider the symbolism of the "yellow car." While associated with Gatsby's wealth and status, it becomes the vehicle of destruction, highlighting how the pursuit of material gain can be morally corrupting. #### 5.2.3 The death of the dream and retreat into privilege Following the confrontation and Myrtle's death, the American Dream, as Gatsby envisioned it, fundamentally collapses. Gatsby's pursuit of an idealized love is destroyed, and Daisy and Tom retreat into their privileged existence, shielded from any accountability for their actions. The imagery associated with the fatal car accident, a mixture of blood and dust, reflects the seductive yet ultimately deadly nature of the dream. > **Example:** Nick's observation that Daisy's voice "was full of money" encapsulates how her allure is inextricably linked to her wealth and status, a privilege Myrtle entirely lacks. #### 5.2.4 Moral ambiguity and Nick's dawning awareness Nick's moral consciousness deepens considerably after the accident. He begins to perceive Gatsby not as foolish, but as a tragic figure. Nick's description of Tom and Daisy as "careless people" who "smashed up things and creatures and then retreated back into their money or their vast carelessness" encapsulates his growing disillusionment with their self-serving nature and emotional detachment. This detachment is further highlighted by their "conspiring together" to protect themselves. --- # Moral ambiguity and consequences This topic explores the unraveling of illusions and the stark realization of unequal consequences, particularly as Nick's moral awareness sharpens, leading him to perceive Gatsby as tragic and to witness Tom and Daisy's shielded retreat into privilege, underscoring themes of moral blindness and its disparate impacts. ### 6.1 The turning point: disillusionment and collapsing illusions Chapter 7 marks a critical turning point in the narrative, shifting from Gatsby's hopeful anticipation to a state of collapse and chaos. This chapter signifies the disillusionment of the American Dream, where illusions are shattered, characters' true natures are revealed, and the critique of societal values becomes explicit. Key tragic events, including the confrontation between Gatsby and Tom, Daisy's indecision, and Myrtle's death, culminate in this shift. #### 6.1.1 The oppressive heat as a symbol The oppressive summer heat pervades the chapter, mirroring the escalating emotional and moral tension among the characters. This heat symbolizes exhaustion, vulnerability, and the inevitability of conflict, suggesting that secrets and hidden truths can no longer remain concealed. The characters' discomfort and irritability reflect their strained relationships reaching a breaking point, acting as a metaphor for their impending emotional collapse. #### 6.1.2 Setting shifts and symbolic meaning The move from Gatsby's opulent mansion to the impersonal Plaza Hotel in New York signifies a significant symbolic shift. Gatsby's cessation of lavish parties, turning his mansion quiet and empty, reflects the collapse of his illusion of social success and his growing internal disillusionment. The Plaza Hotel setting becomes the arena where truth supplants performance, and illusions are irrevocably shattered. This is further underscored by Gatsby's encounter with Daisy's daughter, which destroys his fantasy of reclaiming Daisy and erasing the past five years of her life. #### 6.1.3 Daisy's emotional collapse and moral weakness Daisy's inability to definitively choose between Tom and Gatsby highlights her profound emotional weakness and moral ambiguity. Her statement, "I did love him once – but I loved you too," directly undermines Gatsby's idealized vision and introduces a moral complexity he cannot reconcile. Her actions, such as showing off her daughter and discussing her wedding at the Plaza, assert the reality of her life with Tom, a reality Gatsby desperately wants to negate. Fitzgerald uses Daisy's uncertainty and superficiality to critique the moral carelessness prevalent among the wealthy elite. ### 6.2 The confrontation and its class implications The confrontation scene at the Plaza Hotel exposes the deep-seated class conflict between old money (Tom) and new money (Gatsby). Tom publicly reveals Gatsby's criminal background, associating his wealth with bootlegging and deeming him socially inferior. Tom's explicit racism further demolishes Gatsby's belief in equality and the possibility of transcending class boundaries through love. Despite his own infidelity, Tom adopts a hypocritical moral stance, condemning Gatsby's disruption of his household and invoking the sanctity of family life. ### 6.3 Myrtle's death and the price of ambition Myrtle Wilson's death, caused by Daisy driving Gatsby's car, becomes a pivotal moment symbolizing the destructive nature of the American Dream. Myrtle's pursuit of wealth and status, embodied by the yellow car, leads directly to her demise. Her body, crushed by the very symbol of the luxury she yearned for, serves as a grotesque testament to the price of ambition. The scene ties together themes of class, illusion, and moral blindness: Gatsby's dream is ruined by Daisy's recklessness, while Myrtle's aspiration is literally crushed. Myrtle's death in the Valley of Ashes, a stark contrast to the glittering mansions of the wealthy, underscores how those at the bottom bear the brunt of the privileged class's actions and dreams. The narrative suggests that the American Dream, in this context, rewards corruption and carelessness over virtue and effort, shielding the wealthy from consequences while destroying those who strive for a better life. > **Tip:** Consider how the symbolism of the yellow car evolves throughout the novel, transitioning from a symbol of Gatsby's wealth and charm to an instrument of destruction. ### 6.4 The death of a dream and the retreat into privilege Following the confrontation and Myrtle's death, the American Dream, as Gatsby envisioned it, effectively collapses. Gatsby's pursuit of an idealized love is definitively ended, and Daisy and Tom retreat into their "vast carelessness" and financial security, insulated from the repercussions of their actions. Fitzgerald employs imagery of blood and dust during the fatal accident to illustrate the seductive yet ultimately deadly nature of the dream. The chapter emphasizes that the American Dream, often perceived as glamorous and full of opportunity, can crush those without inherent wealth or privilege. Daisy, with her financial security, Gatsby's protection, and her privileged social standing, possesses psychological and material safety. Nick observes that Daisy's voice itself "was full of money," suggesting her allure is inextricably linked to her wealth and status, a stark contrast to Myrtle's lack of these advantages. By the chapter's end, Nick recognizes Tom and Daisy's conspiratorial alliance in their mutual self-preservation and emotional detachment. ### 6.5 Nick's deepening moral awareness and the consequences of actions Nick Carraway's moral awareness undergoes a significant deepening in the wake of these events. He begins to see Gatsby not as a foolish idealist but as a tragic figure. Nick's poignant observation about Tom and Daisy – "They were careless people, Tom and Daisy – they smashed up things and creatures and then retreated back into their money or their vast carelessness" – encapsulates his growing understanding of their moral blindness and their ability to evade consequences due to their privilege. > **Example:** Compare Nick's initial perception of Gatsby as a flamboyant social climber with his final assessment of him as a figure worthy of tragic contemplation. The stark contrast between the wealthy characters' ability to escape accountability and the destruction faced by those seeking upward mobility, like Myrtle, highlights the novel's critique of societal inequalities and the unequal distribution of consequences. The privileged class is shielded, while the less fortunate are often destroyed by their pursuit of the very dreams that the wealthy embody. > **Tip:** Reflect on how Nick's narrative perspective evolves from an observer to a more critical and morally discerning commentator, particularly in the latter half of the novel. --- ## Common mistakes to avoid - Review all topics thoroughly before exams - Pay attention to formulas and key definitions - Practice with examples provided in each section - Don't memorize without understanding the underlying concepts

| Term | Definition | |------|------------| | Turning Point | A critical moment or event that causes a significant shift or change in the direction of a narrative or situation, often marking a transition from one state to another. | | Illusion | A deceptive appearance or impression that is contrary to what is actually true or real, often representing a false belief or fantasy that is held strongly. | | Disillusionment | The state of being disappointed or disenchanted, typically by the realization that something is not as good, attractive, or true as it was previously believed to be. | | Oppressive Summer Heat | Intense and suffocating atmospheric warmth that creates a feeling of discomfort, agitation, and suffocation, mirroring the rising emotional and moral tensions among characters. | | Moral Tension | A state of psychological stress or conflict arising from conflicting ethical principles or duties, leading to discomfort and difficulty in decision-making. | | Exhaustion | A state of extreme physical or mental tiredness, often caused by excessive exertion or stress, symbolizing the characters' drained emotional reserves. | | Exposure | The state of being vulnerable to harm or danger, or the state of being revealed or uncovered, suggesting that hidden truths are becoming apparent. | | Conflict | A serious disagreement or argument, typically a protracted one, arising from opposing needs, drives, wishes, or ideas that are central to the narrative's progression. | | Agitated | Feeling or appearing troubled or nervous, characterized by a state of heightened emotional disturbance and restlessness. | | Irritable | Having or showing a tendency to be easily annoyed or angered, often a symptom of underlying stress or discomfort. | | Metaphor | A figure of speech in which a word or phrase is applied to an object or action to which it is not literally applicable, used here to represent relationships reaching a breaking point. | | Illusion of Social Success | A false perception or belief that one has achieved or is achieving a desired level of recognition or acceptance within society. | | Internal Disillusionment | A feeling of disappointment or disenchantment that originates from within an individual's own thoughts and feelings. | | Collapse of the Dream | The failure or downfall of a deeply held aspiration or hope, leading to a loss of its perceived value and possibility. | | Truth Replaces Performance | A situation where genuine actions and realities become more significant than outward appearances or staged behaviors. | | Fantasy | The imagination of highly improbable or extraordinary things, often as a way of temporarily escaping reality or fulfilling unmet desires. | | Reclaiming | The act of taking back or regaining possession of something that was previously lost or taken away. | | Moral Ambiguity | The quality of being open to more than one interpretation, moral uncertainty, or doubt, particularly concerning right and wrong actions. | | Emotional Superficiality | A lack of depth or sincerity in feelings and emotional responses, often characterized by shallowness or triviality. | | Moral Carelessness | A disregard for ethical principles or the consequences of one's actions, often stemming from a lack of empathy or responsibility. | | Class Conflict | A struggle between different social classes, typically arising from disparities in wealth, power, and social status. | | Old Money | Wealth inherited over generations, associated with established social status and traditional aristocratic values. | | New Money | Wealth acquired recently, often through business or speculation, and typically lacking the inherited social standing of old money. | | Criminal Background | A history of engaging in illegal activities, often referring to activities like bootlegging which were common during the Prohibition era. | | Bootlegging | The illegal manufacture, sale, or transportation of alcoholic beverages, a common criminal activity during the Prohibition period in the United States. | | Socially Inferior | Belonging to a lower social rank or standing within a hierarchical society. | | Explicit Racism | The open and direct expression of prejudiced beliefs or discriminatory attitudes based on race. | | Shatters Gatsby's Illusion of Equality | Destroys Gatsby's belief or hope that social class differences can be overcome or are irrelevant in his pursuit of Daisy. | | Hypocrite | A person who claims to have moral standards or beliefs to which one's own behavior does not conform. | | Unfaithfulness | The act of being disloyal or betraying a trust, particularly in the context of a romantic or marital relationship. | | Moralize | To comment on matters of morality, especially in a way considered to be tiresomely or pretentiously conventional. | | Virtue | Behavior showing high moral standards. | | Family Institutions | The established customs, practices, and organizations that relate to family life and structure. | | Row | A noisy argument or disturbance. | | Accidental Death | An unintentional killing that occurs without malice aforethought, often as a result of negligence or a tragic mishap. | | Takes the Blame | To accept responsibility or fault for an action or event, even if one is not entirely responsible. | | Symbol of Wealth and Status | An object or item that represents or signifies a person's financial prosperity and social standing. | | Grotesque Symbol | A distorted or unnatural representation that evokes feelings of ugliness, horror, or deformity, symbolizing the dark consequences of ambition. | | Price of Ambition | The sacrifices, hardships, or negative consequences that one must endure in the pursuit of one's goals or aspirations. | | Literally Crushed | Physically destroyed or flattened by immense force, indicating a severe and tangible negative outcome. | | Machine of that Dream | The complex and often impersonal system or structure that drives and perpetuates a particular aspiration or societal goal. | | Instrument of Destruction | An object or tool that is used to cause harm, ruin, or devastation. | | Pursuit of Material Success | The act of striving to achieve wealth, possessions, and worldly achievements. | | Moral Ruin | The complete destruction or degradation of a person's ethical principles or character. | | Class, Illusion, and Moral Blindness | Intertwined themes representing societal divisions, false perceptions, and a lack of ethical awareness that contribute to tragic outcomes. | | Recklessness | Careless disregard for danger or consequences, often leading to harm or destruction. | | Literally Crushed Under the Wheels of Luxury | Physically destroyed by the very symbols of wealth and privilege that were desired, indicating a tragic irony. | | Valley of Ashes | A desolate, industrial wasteland symbolizing poverty, decay, and the grim reality faced by the working class, contrasting with the affluent lifestyles of the wealthy. | | Glittering Mansion | A large, opulent, and luxurious house, representing wealth, glamour, and the superficial allure of the upper class. | | Elegant Home | A stylish and luxurious dwelling, signifying sophistication and high social standing. | | Sacrifice | The voluntary surrender of something important or desired for the sake of something else considered more important or sacred. | | Retreats into Comfort | To withdraw from a difficult or unpleasant situation into a state of ease and security, often characterized by a lack of engagement with consequences. | | American Dream | The belief that anyone in the US can become successful and happy if they work hard, often associated with opportunity and upward mobility. | | Rewards Corruption and Carelessness | The system or society unfairly benefits those who are dishonest or negligent, rather than those who exhibit integrity and diligence. | | Virtue | Behavior showing high moral standards. | | Effort | Persistent exertion of energy or continuous striving towards a goal. | | Shielded by Privilege | Protected from negative consequences or hardship due to one's high social status, wealth, or other advantages. | | Destroyed by Their Pursuit | Negatively impacted or ruined as a result of attempting to attain something, particularly wealth and status. | | White Palace | A grand and imposing building, often symbolizing royalty, wealth, and a sense of isolation from ordinary life. | | King's Daughter | A princess, often implying a privileged upbringing and a life of luxury and high social standing. | | Golden Girl | A highly admired, beautiful, and successful young woman, often associated with wealth and desirability. | | Fatal Car Accident | A vehicular collision resulting in death, signifying the tragic consequences of the characters' actions and the destructive nature of their pursuits. | | Seductive Yet Deadly Nature | The alluring and tempting quality of something that ultimately leads to harm or destruction. | | Blood and Dust | Imagery representing violence, death, and the grim realities of life and ambition, contrasting with the superficial glamour of the American Dream. | | Glamorous | Attractive in an exciting and special way, often associated with wealth, success, and admiration. | | Full of Opportunity | Offering numerous chances for success, advancement, or achievement. | | Crushing Those Who Pursue It | Overwhelming and destroying individuals who attempt to attain something, especially if they lack the necessary resources or advantages. | | Financial Security | The state of having enough money to live comfortably and without worry about future financial needs. | | Physical Safety | Being protected from harm or danger to one's body. | | Psychological Security | A state of mental well-being and confidence, often derived from feeling safe, loved, and accepted. | | Privileged | Having special rights, advantages, or immunities granted to a particular person or group. | | Well-regarded | Respected and admired by others. | | Well-loved | Having affection and devotion from others. | | Voice Was Full of Money | An observation that someone's voice conveys a sense of wealth and high social status, suggesting that their allure is tied to their financial standing. | | Inexhaustible Charm | A captivating and enduring attractiveness that seems to have no end. | | Allure | The quality of being powerfully and mysteriously attractive or fascinating. | | Inseparable | Impossible to separate or disconnect. | | Mutual Self-Preservation | A situation where two or more individuals act together to protect themselves from harm or danger, often prioritizing their own survival. | | Emotional Detachment | The state of not being influenced by feelings or emotional involvement, leading to a lack of empathy or connection. | | Conspiring Together | Secretly planning to do something harmful or illegal, indicating a shared purpose driven by self-interest. | | Moral Awareness | The capacity to understand and differentiate between right and wrong actions and their ethical implications. | | Tragic | Causing great suffering, distress, or death; grievously unfortunate. | | Foolish | Lacking good sense or judgment; unwise. | | Careless People | Individuals who exhibit a lack of attention, concern, or caution regarding their actions and their impact on others. | | Smashed up Things and Creatures | Destroyed or damaged possessions and harmed living beings, indicating a destructive impact on the environment and its inhabitants. | | Retreated Back into Their Money | Withdrew into their wealth as a means of protection or escape from the consequences of their actions. | | Vast Carelessness | An extreme and widespread lack of attention or concern. | | Chapter's Last Paragraph | The concluding section of the chapter, often containing a summary, reflection, or foreshadowing of future events. | | George | A character in the novel who is Myrtle's husband. | | Wife's Affair | The relationship between a married woman and someone other than her husband. | | Reaction to Discovery | The way someone responds or behaves after finding out about something significant. | | Moral Behavior | Actions or conduct that are considered ethically right or acceptable. | | On the Verge of Tears | Very close to crying. | | Suggestions for Cold Baths | Ideas proposed to cope with extreme heat by taking cool showers or baths. | | Telephone for an Axe | A dramatic suggestion to bring an axe, indicating extreme discomfort or a desire for drastic action to alleviate it. |