Final answer:
Nick Carraway is portrayed as observant, reserved, and trustworthy. The direct and indirect characterization in chapters 1 and 2 of The Great Gatsby support these character traits.
Step-by-step explanation:
Nick Carraway:
Nick Carraway is the narrator of the novel. Through his narration in chapters 1 and 2, we can glean several character traits about him. First, he is portrayed as observant and perceptive, as he notices and comments on small details about people and their behaviors. Second, he is somewhat reserved and modest, as he is hesitant to reveal personal information about himself. Lastly, he is portrayed as being honest and trustworthy, as he is a confidant to other characters and acts as an objective observer.
Direct characterization:
In chapter 1, Nick directly describes himself as someone who reserves judgment about others.
Indirect characterization:
In chapter 2, Nick's hesitancy to share personal details about himself and his portrayal as a good listener and confidant to other characters indirectly suggests his modesty, trustworthiness, and observant nature.