Question

Discuss Fitzgerald's use of symbolism in The Great Gatsby. Which symbols are

prominent or important for the reader? How do these symbols enhance the story

Answer 1

Answer: Most of the symbols within the book represent Gatsby's life and the relationships, as well as the time period.

Step-by-step explanation:

The green light represents his hopes and dreams, the color of his car represents the wealth and attention he wants (as it is gold and green), and Daisy herself represents the idea of perfection. Other important symbols within the book is Dr T.J Eckleburg's eyes on the billboard to represent the eyes of God and the Valley of Ashes to show the effects of capitalism and the symbol of time is also repeated throughout the novel. These symbols enhance the story for the reader by enforcing its themes like corruption, longing and greed. During the time period the book takes place in, the American dream was to attain riches, fame, and freedom. These are seen in all the characters but most promiently Gastby, Daisy, Jordan, and Nick

Answer 2

Fitzgerald's use of symbolism in The Great Gatsby is an integral part of the novel's themes and characters. One of the most prominent symbols in the novel is the green light at the end of Daisy's dock. This symbolizes Gatsby's longing for Daisy, as well as the American Dream, which is always just out of reach. The valley of ashes, which is the area between West Egg and New York City, symbolizes the moral decay of society and the emptiness of the American Dream. The billboard of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg, with its large, unseeing eyes, symbolizes the loss of traditional values and the decline of spirituality in modern society.

Other symbols in the novel include Gatsby's mansion, which represents the excesses and shallowness of the wealthy elite, and the color white, which symbolizes purity and innocence, but also the emptiness and superficiality of Daisy and other characters. The use of automobiles as symbols of status and power is also notable, as is the use of alcohol and parties to represent the hedonistic excesses of the wealthy.

Overall, Fitzgerald's use of symbolism in The Great Gatsby enhances the story by providing a deeper layer of meaning and commentary on the themes and characters. The symbols help to convey the novel's critique of the American Dream and the moral decay of society, as well as the characters' desires, motivations, and flaws. The symbols also add to the novel's rich and complex imagery, making it a work of art as well as a compelling story.