Final answer:
At the end of 'The Great Gatsby,' Nick realizes the shallowness of the 1920s society as Gatsby's true identity is revealed during his funeral, reinforcing the novel's themes of illusion versus reality and the individual versus society. Option A
Step-by-step explanation:
At the end of F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby, while Nick Carraway is arranging Gatsby's funeral, it becomes clear that Gatsby's true identity is revealed (Option A). This revelation underscores the central theme of the novel, which revolves around the illusion versus reality of the American Dream during the 1920s.
Despite Gatsby's wealth and the lavish parties he hosted, it is apparent in the aftermath of his death that he has few genuine friends and the facade of his grand life crumbles, exposing the loneliness and futility of his pursuit. The tragic irony is that only Nick, a relative outsider, and his father seem to care enough to attend the funeral, highlighting Gatsby's ultimate isolation in the world he tried so hard to be a part of.
Fitzgerald demonstrates through Nick's narration the superficial nature of society during the Roaring Twenties—a society that eagerly partook in Gatsby's hospitality but abandoned him in death. The conclusion of the novel also serves as a moment of reflection for Nick, who comes to realize the hollowness of the lives led by his peers, thus intensifying the novel's critique of decadence and moral decay within the era's wealthy elite.
This point of understanding aligns with Fitzgerald's portrayal of his characters, especially Gatsby, as representations of uniquely individual stories rather than embodiments of broader demographic stereotypes.
In essence, the ending of the novel reaffirms that Gatsby's story is both unique and universal—an individual's journey that, while deeply personal, reflects the broader human experience of striving, failing, and the relentless pursuit of often unattainable dreams. Option A