The Great Gatsby: A Summary and Analysis
Chapter 1: The Green Light
The reader is introduced to the main characters and their traits: the uninhibited Jordan Baker, the unpolarized Nick Carraway, the sassy Daisy Buchanan, the aggressive Tom Buchanan, and the enigmatic Jay Gatsby.
Chapter 2: The Ashy Side Chick
Tom Buchanan’s infidelity is revealed. Nick accompanies Tom to the Valley of Ashes to meet Tom’s mistress, Myrtle. Myrtle hosts a small party, and Tom breaks her nose after she repeatedly mentions Daisy’s name.
Chapter 3: An Invitation to Gatsby’s Party
Nick receives an invitation to one of Gatsby’s lavish parties. Amidst the music, alcohol, and gossip, Nick finally meets Gatsby and is intrigued by his charismatic personality.
Chapter 4: Gatsby’s Fabricated Past
Nick and Gatsby have lunch, during which Gatsby fabricates a story about his wealthy upbringing. Nick is introduced to Meyer Wolfshiem. Jordan reveals Gatsby’s love for Daisy and his efforts to win her back.
Chapter 5: A Reunion with Daisy
Nick arranges a tea party for Gatsby and Daisy to reunite. After an initial awkwardness, their reunion is filled with passion and joy. Gatsby shows off his possessions, including his impressive collection of shirts.
Chapter 6: Gatsby’s True Identity
Gatsby’s real background is revealed: a college dropout who worked for Dan Cody. His real name is James Gatz. Tom becomes suspicious of Gatsby.
Chapter 7: Confrontation and Tragedy
Daisy and Gatsby’s affair continues, and Gatsby stops hosting parties. On a hot day, the group goes to a hotel in the city. Tom confronts Gatsby about his love for Daisy. Myrtle is tragically killed by Gatsby’s car, which Daisy was driving.
Chapter 8: Gatsby’s Demise
George Wilson, distraught over Myrtle’s death, seeks revenge. Tom directs George towards Gatsby, who is then shot and killed in his swimming pool.
Chapter 9: Farewell to the East Egg
Few people attend Gatsby’s funeral. Nick breaks up with Jordan and becomes disillusioned with the East Coast.
Social Media Parallels and Social Values
Our modern obsession with social media mirrors the constructed identities in Gatsby. Social values today are even more skewed towards wealth and fame than in the 1920s.
The Ending and Gatsby’s Fate
Fitzgerald’s ending comments on human nature, relationships, and social disparities. Gatsby’s dream was unattainable due to the difference between his new money and Daisy’s inherited wealth. Gatsby’s death symbolizes the death of his dream.
Daisy’s Representation
Daisy represents the limited role of women during that time. She lacks agency and serves primarily as a symbol of Gatsby’s aspirations.