What do you think the title the Great Gatsby means?
Answer: The title presents Gatsby through the eyes of the narrator, Nick. Nick believes that Gatsby is 'great' because of his great hope.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Great Gatsby is the title of F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel. The narrator, Nick, tells a story about his neighbor, Jay Gatsby, a millionaire with a luxurious house.
The title of the book portrays how Nick actually sees his neighbor. Nick admires Gatsby for gaining enough money to make his dreams come true. However, he admires Gatsby's ever-lasting hope which never leaves him even more. Nick is aware of Gatsby's flaws, but his attributes prevail. Nick believes that Gatsby is 'great' because of his unconditional love for Daisy and quality of hope.
Is Gatsby great? Why or why not?
Answer: Gatsby's unconditional love and straightforwardness make him 'great', but his naivety does not.
Step-by-step explanation:
It could be argued that Gatsby is 'great.' Throughout the novel, he shows that he is a good neighbor and a person capable of love. He is ready to do anything for the person he loves - even when it leads to his own death. He does not calculate or manipulate others. He seems to be pretty straightforward and honest.
On the other hand, Gatsby is a rather naive character and shows lack of judgement. He fails to understand that Tom and Daisy are dangerous people. He is, indeed, full of hope, and believes that Daisy and him will be together again, but the readers easily conclude it is unlikely to happen. Gatsby fails to make the same conclusion, which results in Daisy's betrayal and his death.