Introduction:

In our last discussion, we explored the rich contrasts present in The Great Gatsby, particularly how the world of wealth and excess in East Egg contrasts with the industrial and struggling atmosphere of West Egg.

One of the key contrasts is the image of Wilson’s Garage—an industrial, somewhat grim setting, full of machinery like oil drills and gas pumps, which starkly contrasts with the luxurious, party-filled world of Jay Gatsby’s mansion. These contrasts serve not only to highlight the differences in social classes but also to explore the themes of the American Dream, illusion, and moral decay.

Assignment:

For this home assignment, reflect on these contrasts and prepare for our upcoming class discussion. Answer the following questions:

1.Contrast in Environments: How does the setting of Wilson’s Garage (industrial, gritty, and economically struggling) compare to the world of Gatsby’s parties and his mansion? What does this contrast say about the two characters, Tom Buchanan and Jay Gatsby?

2.Symbolism of Machinery: In the context of the novel, what could the industrial machinery, like the oil drills and gas pumps, symbolize in relation to the characters’ ambitions and the American Dream? How do these machines contrast with the opulence of the East Egg lifestyle?

3.Social Class and Morality: How does the contrast between these settings reflect the moral decay and the false promises of the American Dream? How are these themes explored through the characters’ actions in these contrasting environments?

Preparation:

For the class, come prepared to discuss these contrasts. Bring your ideas and be ready to share your thoughts on how Fitzgerald uses these differences to comment on society, ambition, and the illusion of the American Dream.