great gatsby essay topics

88 Perfect Essay Topics on The Great Gatsby

Welcome to The Great Gatsby Essay Topics page prepared by our editorial team! Here you’ll find a large collection of essay ideas on the novel! Literary analysis, themes, characters, & more. Get inspired to write your own paper!

🔬 Literary Analysis
🎭 Characters
📊 Compare & Contrast
🗺️ Navigation

🎓 References

🔬 literary analysis of the great gatsby: essay topics.

What are the literary devices used to create the image of Jay Gatsby?
Analyze how Fitzgerald uses imagery in The Great Gatsby.
The Great Gatsby: analysis and feminist critique
What do colors symbolize in The Great Gatsby?
How does Fitzgerald use geographical setting to show the contrast between social classes in the novel?
How does Fitzgerald convey a notion of the American Dream through metaphors and symbols?
What does the green light in Daisy’s window represent in The Great Gatsby?
What does the Valley of Ashes symbolize in The Great Gatsby?
What role does Nick Carraway’s narration play in the story? If we got it through an omniscient third-person narrator, what would we gain or lose?
Could the story have been set in other places, like Chicago or Los Angeles, or were New York City and Long Island absolutely necessary?
Look at the novel’s opening lines. If we accept Nick’s advice when we read the story, will our views of it change? Or, in other words, does refraining from criticism promote compassion?
Is there a hidden meaning of the title of The Great Gatsby? What is it?
How is the color white used within the novel? When does it make a false representation of innocence? When does it truly represent innocence?
Color symbolism in The Great Gatsby
What is the role of a New York setting in the novel’s storyline?
What is the real meaning of ‘great’ in the title of The Great Gatsby?
What significance do colors have in the party’s descriptions in chapter 3?
Why is Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby a satire?
Elaborate on the green light as the symbol of the American dream.
What is the meaning of the phrase “Can’t repeat the past?.. Why of course you can!” What does Gatsby really want from Daisy?
What role do the eyes of Doctor T. J. Eckleburg play in The Great Gatsby?
How is The Great Gatsby a satirical representation of the society?
Are the rich in the novel really so careless as everyone believes them to be?
Create an alternative ending for The Great Gatsby. Justify your choice.
What is the relationship between those born rich and those who became rich in the novel?
Fairy tale traits in The Great Gatsby

🎭 Essay Topics on The Great Gatsby’s Characters

Discuss female characters and their significance in The Great Gatsby.
Compare Gatsby and Wilson. In what ways are they similar?
Gatsby & Nick in The Great Gatsby
Who is the most responsible for Gatsby’s death? Why is it so?
Why do Tom and Daisy stay together at the end of the novel?
Does Gatsby’s money bring him real happiness?
Can Jay’s feelings for Daisy in The Great Gatsby be considered love?
How do secondary characters affect the story?
Daisy Buchanan: quotes analysis
Who is the real hero in The Great Gatsby?
Can we call Jay Gatsby a romantic hero or a villain?
What does Jay Gatsby really live for in the novel: the present or the past?
Compare Myrtle and Daisy.
Jay Gatsby & Tom Buchanan: compare & contrast
What does Tom’s quarrel with Myrtle in chapter 2 tell us about his personality?
Elaborate on how both Tom and Gatsby want to change not only the future, but the past in chapter 7.
What was Gatsby’s power of dreaming like? Was Daisy a worth object?
Is anyone to blame for Gatsby’s death?
Nick as the narrator in The Great Gatsby
Are there any moral characters in the novel?
Can Jordan and Daisy be considered perfect role models for the upper class in America? Why or why not?
Is Gatsby really great? In what way? How does his greatness evolve as the plot unfolds?
How does Nick’s character change over the course of The Great Gatsby?
Does Gatsby deserve the definition of a self-made man? Why or why not?
What role does Daisy play in the conflict between Gatsby & Tom?

🌻 Essay Topics on The Great Gatsby’s Themes

What are the central themes in The Great Gatsby?
What roles do fidelity and infidelity play in Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby?
What importance does sex have in the story?
What role does alcohol play in The Great Gatsby by Fitzgerald?
Did Fitzgerald really criticize the idea of the American Dream in The Great Gatsby?
Does love play have any importance in The Great Gatsby?
What role does the relationship between geography and social values play in the novel?
Francis Scott Fitzgerald & his American Dream
What is the meaning of time in The Great Gatsby?
How do the aristocratic East Eggers, Tom and the Sloanes, regard Gatsby in chapter 6? How is their contempt connected to the theme of social class in the novel?
Analyze The Great Gatsby through the prism of feminist theory.
How are the themes of kindness and compassion presented in The Great Gatsby?
Describe how the theme of ambition is presented in the novel.
Elaborate on how Fitzgerald contrasts education and experience in The Great Gatsby.

⌛ Essay Topics on the Context of The Great Gatsby

Describe how F.S. Fitzgerald’s life experiences influenced The Great Gatsby.
What are the examples of modernism in The Great Gatsby?
How does Fitzgerald represent the society of his time in the novel? Would you like to live in the Jazz era? Why or why not?
How is America shown in The Great Gatsby? What values do the East and the West represent?
How does Fitzgerald provide a critical social history of Prohibition-era America in his novel?
How is the economic boom of postwar America shown in The Great Gatsby?
Why did The Great Gatsby was neither a critical nor commercial success just after its publication? Why did its popularity grow exponentially several decades after?
How are racial anxieties of the time shown in the novel?

📊 The Great Gatsby: Compare & Contrast Essay Topics

Make a critical comparison of the novel with the 2013 movie.
Make a comparison of the novel with the 1949 movie.
Compare The Great Gatsby movies of 1949 and 2013.
Compare and contrast two classic American novels: The Great Gatsbyand The Grapes of Wrath.
Female characters in The Streetcar Named Desire & The Great Gatsby .
How are Donald Trump and The Great Gatsby’s Tom Buchanan alike?
Compare Miller’s Death of a Salesman and The Great Gatsby.
What other fictional or non-fictional character from a book or movie can Nick Carraway be compared to?
Jay Gatsby & Eponine from Les Miserables .
Make a critical comparison of The Sun Also Rises and The Great Gatsby.
Compare The Great Gatsby with A Farewell to Arms.
Make a comparison of Daisy from The Great Gatsby with Henrietta Bingham from Irresistible.
Love in The Great Gatsby & The Catcher in The Rye .
What pop stars of nowadays Daisy can be compared to?
Macbeth vs. Jay Gatsby: make a character comparison.
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Study Guide Menu

Short Summary
Summary (Chapter 1)
Summary (Chapter 2)
Summary (Chapter 3)
Summary (Chapter 4)
Summary (Chapter 5)
Summary (Chapter 6)
Summary (Chapter 7)
Summary (Chapter 8)
Summary (Chapter 9)
Symbolism & Style
Quotes Explained
Essay Topics
Essay Samples
Questions & Answers
F. Scott Fitzgerald’s Biography
Chicago (A-D)
Chicago (N-B)

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Essays on The Great Gatsby

The great gatsby essay topic examples.

Whether you want to analyze the American Dream, compare and contrast characters, vividly describe settings and characters, persuade readers with your viewpoints, or share personal experiences related to the story, these essay ideas provide a diverse perspective on the themes and complexities within the book.

Argumentative Essays

Argumentative essays require you to analyze and present arguments related to the novel. Here are some topic examples:

1. Argue whether the American Dream is achievable or illusory, as depicted in The Great Gatsby .
2. Analyze the moral ambiguity of Jay Gatsby and the consequences of his relentless pursuit of the American Dream.

Example Introduction Paragraph for an Argumentative Essay: F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby is a tale of ambition, decadence, and the elusive American Dream. This essay delves into the complex theme of the American Dream, exploring whether it remains attainable or has transformed into a tantalizing illusion, luring individuals like Jay Gatsby into its enigmatic embrace.

Example Conclusion Paragraph for an Argumentative Essay: In conclusion, the analysis of the American Dream in The Great Gatsby invites us to reevaluate our perceptions of success and fulfillment. As we contemplate the fate of Jay Gatsby and the characters entangled in his world, we are challenged to define our own version of the American Dream and the sacrifices it may entail.

Compare and Contrast Essays

Compare and contrast essays enable you to examine similarities and differences within the novel or between it and other literary works. Consider these topics:

1. Compare and contrast the characters of Jay Gatsby and Tom Buchanan, exploring their contrasting worldviews and motivations.
2. Analyze the similarities and differences between the portrayal of the Jazz Age in The Great Gatsby and Ernest Hemingway's The Sun Also Rises .

Example Introduction Paragraph for a Compare and Contrast Essay: The characters and settings in The Great Gatsby and other literary works offer a rich tapestry for comparison and contrast. This essay embarks on a journey to compare and contrast the enigmatic Jay Gatsby and the brash Tom Buchanan, delving into their contrasting values, aspirations, and roles within the novel.

Example Conclusion Paragraph for a Compare and Contrast Essay: In conclusion, the comparison and contrast of Jay Gatsby and Tom Buchanan illuminate the divergent paths individuals can take in pursuit of their desires. As we consider the consequences of their choices, we are prompted to reflect on the complexities of ambition and morality.

Descriptive Essays

Descriptive essays allow you to vividly depict settings, characters, or events within the novel. Here are some topic ideas:

1. Describe the opulent parties at Gatsby's mansion, emphasizing the decadence and extravagance of the Jazz Age.
2. Paint a detailed portrait of Daisy Buchanan, focusing on her beauty, charm, and the allure she holds for Gatsby.

Example Introduction Paragraph for a Descriptive Essay: The Great Gatsby immerses readers in the lavish world of the Roaring Twenties. This essay embarks on a descriptive exploration of the extravagant parties at Gatsby's mansion, capturing the opulence and hedonism of the era, as well as the illusions they create.

Example Conclusion Paragraph for a Descriptive Essay: In conclusion, the descriptive portrayal of Gatsby's parties serves as a vivid snapshot of the Jazz Age's excesses and the fleeting nature of indulgence. Through this exploration, we are reminded of the allure and transience of the materialistic pursuits that captivated the characters of the novel.

Persuasive Essays

Persuasive essays involve arguing a point of view related to the novel. Consider these persuasive topics:

1. Persuade your readers that Nick Carraway is the moral compass of the story, serving as the voice of reason and morality.
2. Argue for or against the idea that Gatsby's love for Daisy is genuine and selfless, despite his questionable methods.

Example Introduction Paragraph for a Persuasive Essay: The Great Gatsby presents a tapestry of characters with complex moral dilemmas. This persuasive essay asserts that Nick Carraway emerges as the moral compass of the story, guiding readers through the labyrinth of decadence and disillusionment in the Jazz Age.

Example Conclusion Paragraph for a Persuasive Essay: In conclusion, the persuasive argument regarding Nick Carraway's role as the moral compass underscores the importance of ethical navigation in a world characterized by excess and moral ambiguity. As we reflect on his influence, we are compelled to consider the enduring value of integrity and virtue.

Narrative Essays

Narrative essays offer you the opportunity to tell a story or share personal experiences related to the themes of the novel. Explore these narrative essay topics:

1. Narrate a personal experience where you encountered the allure of materialism and extravagance, similar to the characters in The Great Gatsby .
2. Imagine yourself as a character in the Jazz Age and recount your interactions with Jay Gatsby and Daisy Buchanan.

Example Introduction Paragraph for a Narrative Essay: The themes of The Great Gatsby resonate with the allure of a bygone era. This narrative essay delves into a personal encounter with the seductive pull of materialism and extravagance, drawing parallels to the characters' experiences in the novel.

Example Conclusion Paragraph for a Narrative Essay: In conclusion, the narrative of my personal encounter with the allure of materialism reminds us of the timeless nature of the themes in The Great Gatsby . As we navigate our own desires and ambitions, we are encouraged to contemplate the balance between aspiration and morality.

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The Portrayal of Female Characters in F.s. Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby

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April 10, 1925, F. Scott Fitzgerald

Novel; Fiction, Tragedy

Jay Gatsby , Nick Carraway, Daisy Buchanan, Tom Buchanan, Myrtle Wilson, Jordan Baker, Meyer Wolfsheim, George B. Wilson, Trimalchio, Mr. Gatz

F. Scott Fitzgerald wrote "The Great Gatsby" with multiple motivations in mind. Firstly, he sought to critique the materialistic excesses and moral decay of the Roaring Twenties, a period of post-World War I prosperity. Fitzgerald aimed to expose the disillusionment and hollowness behind the glittering facade of the American Dream. Additionally, he drew inspiration from his own experiences and observations of the wealthy elite and their decadent lifestyles. Through the character of Jay Gatsby, Fitzgerald explored themes of unrequited love, longing, and the pursuit of an unattainable ideal. Ultimately, Fitzgerald's intent was to capture the essence of an era and offer a profound commentary on the human condition.

The story revolves around Jay Gatsby, a mysterious millionaire, and his pursuit of Daisy Buchanan, a married woman with whom he had a romantic past. Narrated by Nick Carraway, a young man from the Midwest, the novel delves into the opulent and extravagant lives of the wealthy elite in Long Island. As Gatsby throws lavish parties in the hope of rekindling his relationship with Daisy, the narrative explores themes of love, wealth, illusion, and the disillusionment that comes with the pursuit of the American Dream.

The American Dream , decadence, idealism, resistance to changes, social excess, caution.

The influence of "The Great Gatsby" extends far beyond its initial publication in 1925. F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel has become a literary classic, revered for its exploration of themes such as wealth, love, and the elusive American Dream. It remains relevant due to its timeless portrayal of human desires, societal decadence, and the consequences of relentless pursuit. The book's vivid characters and atmospheric prose have inspired countless writers and artists, shaping the landscape of American literature. With its commentary on the dark underbelly of the Jazz Age, "The Great Gatsby" continues to captivate readers, serving as a cautionary tale and a poignant reflection of the human condition.

1. During F. Scott Fitzgerald's lifetime, approximately 25,000 copies of the book were sold. However, since then, it has gained immense popularity, selling over 25 million copies and establishing itself as one of the most renowned American novels. 2. The Great Gatsby did not have its original title as the author considered various options, ranging from "Under the Red, White and Blue" to "The High-Bouncing Lover." These alternative titles were potentially revealing too much about the content prematurely. 3. In 1926, just a year after its publication, the book was adapted into a film, demonstrating its quick transition from page to screen. 4. Fitzgerald's cause of death is believed to have been tuberculosis rather than a heart attack. Sadly, he passed away at the age of 44. 5. The price of this famous novel at the time of its publication in 1925 was $2, representing its value in that era. 6. The Great Gatsby did not immediately receive critical acclaim upon release. However, it has since garnered recognition and praise, becoming a significant literary work.

"The Great Gatsby" has made a significant impact on various forms of media, captivating audiences across generations. The novel has been adapted into several films, with notable versions including the 1974 adaptation starring Robert Redford and the 2013 adaptation featuring Leonardo DiCaprio. These cinematic interpretations have brought the story to life visually, further immersing audiences in the opulent world of Jay Gatsby. Additionally, the novel has been referenced and alluded to in countless songs, television shows, and even video games, solidifying its cultural significance. Its themes of love, wealth, and the pursuit of the American Dream continue to resonate and inspire creative works in popular culture.

“In my younger and more vulnerable years my father gave me some advice that I've been turning over in my mind ever since. ‘Whenever you feel like criticizing any one,’ he told me, ‘just remember that all the people in this world haven't had the advantages that you've had.’” “I was within and without, simultaneously enchanted and repelled by the inexhaustible variety of life.” “Let us learn to show our friendship for a man when he is alive and not after he is dead.” “So we drove on toward death through the cooling twilight.” “I hope she'll be a fool -- that's the best thing a girl can be in this world, a beautiful little fool.”

Studying "The Great Gatsby" holds great importance due to its enduring relevance and literary significance. The novel offers profound insights into themes such as wealth, love, social class, and the corruption of the American Dream. Its exploration of the Jazz Age exposes the allure and emptiness of a materialistic society, making it a compelling study of human desires and societal decay. F. Scott Fitzgerald's masterful prose and symbolic imagery provide rich material for analyzing character development, narrative techniques, and social commentary. Moreover, delving into the novel's historical context allows for a deeper understanding of the cultural and societal shifts of the 1920s.

The inclusion of "The Great Gatsby" as an essay topic for college students stems from its exploration of themes like the American Dream, the juxtaposition of poverty and wealth, and the destructive allure of corruption. The character of Gatsby embodies the American spirit and can be paralleled to contemporary individuals fixated on materialism and fame as measures of romantic success. Furthermore, this literary masterpiece holds a significant place in American literature, as F. Scott Fitzgerald skillfully weaves socio-cultural elements into each sentence, providing a timeless portrayal of American life that resonates across generations. The choice to analyze and write about "The Great Gatsby" allows students to delve into these thought-provoking themes and examine their relevance to society.

1. Stallman, R. W. (1955). Conrad and The Great Gatsby. Twentieth Century Literature, 1(1), 5–12. (https://doi.org/10.2307/441023) 2. John Jerrim, Lindsey Macmillan, (2015). Income Inequality, Intergenerational Mobility, and the Great Gatsby Curve: Is Education the Key?, Social Forces, Volume 94, Issue 2. (https://academic.oup.com/sf/article/94/2/505/2583794) 3. Robert C. Hauhart (2013) Religious Language and Symbolism in The Great Gatsby’s Valley of Ashes, ANQ: A Quarterly Journal of Short Articles, Notes and Reviews, 26:3 (https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0895769X.2013.798233) 4. Burnam, T. (1952). The Eyes of Dr. Eckleburg: A Re-Examination of “The Great Gatsby.” College English, 14(1), 7–12. (https://www.jstor.org/stable/371821) 5. Tom Phillips (2018) Passing for White in THE GREAT GATSBY: A Spectroscopic Analysis of Jordan Baker, The Explicator, 76:3. (https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/00144940.2018.1489769?scroll=top&needAccess=true&role=tab) 6. Matterson, S. (1990). The Great Gatsby and Social Class. In: The Great Gatsby. The Critics Debate. Palgrave, London. (https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-1-349-20768-8_9) 7. Licence, A. (2008). Jay Gatsby: martyr of a materialistic society: Amy Licence considers religious elements in The Great Gatsby. The English Review, 18(3), 24+. (https://go.gale.com/ps/i.do?id=GALE%7CA173676222&sid=googleScholar&v=2.1&it=r&linkaccess=abs&issn=09558950&p=LitRC&sw=w&userGroupName=anon%7E5a84816e) 8. Khodamoradpour, Marjan and Anushiravani, Alireza, (2017) Playing the Old Tunes: A Fiskean Analysis of Baz Luhrmann's 2013 Cinematic Adaptation of the Great Gatsby. International Letters of Social and Humanistic Sciences, Volume 71. (https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=3020752) 9. Anderson, H. (1968). THE RICH BUNCH IN" THE GREAT GATSBY". Southern Quarterly, 6(2), 163. (https://www.proquest.com/openview/6a9e704a476d873aada2d2529821b95a/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=2029886)

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122 The Great Gatsby Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

Inside This Article

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald is a classic novel that has captivated readers for generations. With its themes of love, wealth, and the American Dream, there are countless essay topics that can be explored when analyzing this novel. Whether you are a student writing a paper for class or just a fan of the book looking for some inspiration, here are 122 great Gatsby essay topic ideas and examples to get you started.

The symbolism of the green light at the end of Daisy's dock.
The role of social class in the novel.
The theme of illusion vs. reality in The Great Gatsby.
The significance of the Valley of Ashes in the novel.
How does Fitzgerald use weather to create mood and atmosphere in the novel?
The role of women in The Great Gatsby.
The character of Jay Gatsby as a tragic hero.
The impact of World War I on the characters in the novel.
The symbolism of Gatsby's parties.
The theme of time in The Great Gatsby.
The role of religion in the novel.
The significance of the color yellow in the novel.
The character of Tom Buchanan as a symbol of the old money elite.
The theme of morality in The Great Gatsby.
The role of Nick Carraway as a narrator.
The symbolism of the eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg.
The significance of the character of Meyer Wolfsheim.
The theme of love in The Great Gatsby.
The role of race and ethnicity in the novel.
The symbolism of cars in the novel.
The theme of betrayal in The Great Gatsby.
The significance of the character of Daisy Buchanan.
The role of alcohol in the novel.
The symbolism of the letter from Gatsby's father.
The theme of isolation in The Great Gatsby.
The significance of Gatsby's mansion.
The role of music in the novel.
The theme of materialism in The Great Gatsby.
The significance of the character of Jordan Baker.
The role of Nick Carraway as a foil to Gatsby.
The symbolism of the weather in the novel.
The theme of the American Dream in The Great Gatsby.
The significance of the character of George Wilson.
The role of fashion in the novel.
The symbolism of the East and West Egg.
The theme of social mobility in The Great Gatsby.
The significance of the character of Myrtle Wilson.
The role of architecture in the novel.
The theme of loyalty in The Great Gatsby.
The significance of the character of Owl Eyes.
The role of violence in the novel.
The theme of forgiveness in The Great Gatsby.
The significance of the character of Dan Cody.
The role of nature in the novel.
The theme of fate in The Great Gatsby.
The significance of the character of Catherine.
The role of technology in the novel.
The theme of identity in The Great Gatsby.
The significance of the character of Henry C. Gatz.
The role of consumerism in the novel.
The theme of justice in The Great Gatsby.
The significance of the character of Pammy Buchanan.
The role of education in the novel.
The theme of power in The Great Gatsby.
The significance of the character of Michaelis.
The role of politics in the novel.
The theme of memory in The Great Gatsby.
The significance of the character of Lucille McKee.
The role of geography in the novel.
The theme of ambition in The Great Gatsby.
The significance of the character of Edythe.
The role of communication in the novel.
The significance of the character of Horace Kean.
The role of language in the novel.
The theme of trust in The Great Gatsby.
The significance of the character of Lillian Gish.
The role of media in the novel.
The theme of friendship in The Great Gatsby.
The significance of the character of Mrs. McKee.
The theme of wealth in The Great Gatsby.
The significance of the character of Ewing Klipspringer.
The role of art in the novel.
The theme of sacrifice in The Great Gatsby.
The significance of the character of James Gatz.
The role of literature in the novel.
The theme of obsession in The Great Gatsby.
The significance of the character of Mr. McKee.
The role of science in the novel.
The theme of truth in The Great Gatsby.
The significance of the character of Mr. Gatz.
The role of philosophy in the novel.
The theme of beauty in The Great Gatsby.
The significance of the character of Mrs. Gatz.
The role of psychology in the novel.
The theme of desire in The Great Gatsby.
The significance of the character of Mr. Carraway.
The role of sociology in the novel.
The significance of the character of Mr. Buchanan.
The role of anthropology in the novel.
The significance of the character of Miss Baker.
The role of history in the novel.
The significance of the character of Miss Wilson.
The significance of the character of Miss Gish.

With so many different angles to explore, The Great Gatsby offers endless possibilities for analysis and interpretation. Whether you are interested in exploring the symbolism, themes, characters, or historical context of the novel, there is sure to be a topic that will spark your interest. So pick a topic, start writing, and dive into the world of The Great Gatsby.

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The Great Gatsby Essay Topics: Dive Deep into Fitzgerald’s World

When F. Scott Fitzgerald penned “The Great Gatsby,” he probably didn’t foresee the cultural phenomenon it would become. It’s not just a story about the Roaring Twenties, but a timeless exploration of ambition, love, societal pressures, and the ever-elusive American Dream. As students and literature enthusiasts, analyzing this classic novel can lead to intriguing insights.

What is a Great Gatsby Essay?

A “Great Gatsby” essay is an analytical or argumentative piece that delves into the themes, characters, symbols, and narrative techniques in Fitzgerald’s novel. From the opulent parties at Gatsby’s mansion to the faded eyes of Dr. T. J. Eckleburg on a billboard, the novel offers a plethora of subjects ripe for exploration.

Guide to Choosing a Great Gatsby Essay Topic

When it comes to picking the perfect topic for your “Great Gatsby” essay, think about what fascinates you the most about the novel. Is it a particular character’s arc, a recurring symbol, or a central theme? Consider:

Your Passion : Choose a topic that genuinely intrigues you. This will make your writing process more enjoyable.
Relevance : If your essay has specific guidelines, make sure your topic aligns with them.
Scope : Ensure your topic is neither too broad nor too narrow. It should allow for a deep dive without overwhelming.

Great Gatsby Essay Topics Lists

Character analysis.

The evolution of Jay Gatsby: From James Gatz to the Golden Boy
Daisy Buchanan: A symbol of the American Dream or its victim?
The duality of Tom Buchanan: Aristocratic charm and brutish behavior
Jordan Baker: The modern woman of the 1920s
The tragic trajectory of George and Myrtle Wilson

Themes Explored

The decay of the American Dream
The superficiality of the Jazz Age
The role of wealth and class
The portrayal of love and obsession
Morality and corruption in the Roaring Twenties

Symbols and Motifs

The green light: Hope, dreams, and unattainable desires
The Valley of Ashes: Decay, despair, and the downtrodden
Dr. T. J. Eckleburg’s eyes: The omnipresent moral judgment
Cars in the novel: Symbols of status, freedom, and impending doom
East vs. West: The inherent tension and their symbolic meanings

Narrative Techniques

The reliability of Nick Carraway as a narrator
Fitzgerald’s use of color symbolism
The role of setting in character development
The significance of the title: Who is the “Great” Gatsby?
The structure of the novel and its impact on the narrative

Character Insights

The metamorphosis of James Gatz to Jay Gatsby: A self-made illusion
The allure and tragedy of Daisy Buchanan
Tom Buchanan: The embodiment of 1920s excess and entitlement
The enigmatic charm of Jordan Baker
George Wilson: A product of societal neglect
Myrtle Wilson’s desperate grasp for a luxurious life
Meyer Wolfsheim and the underworld of the Jazz Age
The subtle influences of Catherine, Myrtle’s sister

Exploring Central Themes

The ephemeral nature of the American Dream
Love versus obsession: Gatsby’s pursuit of Daisy
Moral decay in the heart of the Jazz Age
The consequences of unchecked ambition
Illusion vs. reality: The facades characters maintain
The societal clash: Old Money vs. New Money
The isolation and loneliness lurking beneath the parties

Symbols and Their Interpretations

The elusive green light and its manifold meanings
The Valley of Ashes: The grim face of industrialization
The haunting eyes of Dr. T. J. Eckleburg
The significance of Gatsby’s lavish parties
The role of automobiles: Symbols of modernity and death
The shirts and materialism: Daisy’s emotional collapse

Narrative Techniques & Structure

Assessing Nick Carraway’s reliability as a narrator
Fitzgerald’s prose: A blend of poetic and prosaic
The non-linear timeline and its effects on suspense
The role of weather and its influence on the narrative mood
Foreshadowing in the novel: Predicting Gatsby’s downfall

Comparative Analyses

“The Great Gatsby” and the plays of Tennessee Williams: A study in Southern Gothic
Comparing Daisy Buchanan and Blanche DuBois
The Jazz Age in “The Great Gatsby” vs. “This Side of Paradise”
Comparing the tragedies of Jay Gatsby and Oedipus Rex
The portrayal of the American Dream in “The Great Gatsby” vs. “Death of a Salesman”

Societal Implications

The role of women in “The Great Gatsby”: Traditionalism vs. Modernism
Racism and xenophobia: The dark undertones of the Jazz Age
The impact of Prohibition on the characters and plot
Jazz music and its influence on the Roaring Twenties ethos
The disillusionment of World War I veterans: Gatsby’s hidden scars

Miscellaneous Topics

The significance of the Midwest vs. the East Coast
The influence of Gatsby’s father and his cameo in the novel
Analyzing the epigraph: Why “Then wear the gold hat”?
The role of minor characters in building Gatsby’s world
The cultural legacy of “The Great Gatsby” in modern media

Unraveling Relationships

Gatsby and Nick: A friendship built on admiration and intrigue
The love triangle: Gatsby, Daisy, and Tom
The tragic love affair of George and Myrtle Wilson
Tom and Myrtle: Lust, power, and socioeconomic dynamics
The nuanced relationship between Nick and Jordan

Behind the Illusions

The significance of Gatsby’s Oxford photograph and medal
The root of Gatsby’s wealth: Ill-gotten gains and their implications
The role of gossip and rumors in shaping perceptions
The real reason behind Gatsby’s infatuation with Daisy
The illusion of East Egg’s sophistication and its moral bankruptcy

Contextual Analysis

The influence of the Lost Generation on Fitzgerald’s narrative
The impact of the stock market and economic dynamics on the story’s backdrop
Jazz, flappers, and the cultural shifts of the 1920s
The role of organized crime and its influence on the novel’s events
The societal implications of prohibition in the Roaring Twenties

Deeper Dive into Symbols

The significance of the color yellow in the novel
Gatsby’s mansion as a symbol of his ambitions and insecurities
The motif of water and barriers in Gatsby and Daisy’s relationship
The broken clock during Gatsby’s reunion with Daisy
The juxtaposition of fire and water in the novel’s climax

Literary Legacy

The influence of “The Great Gatsby” on modern American literature
Adapting “The Great Gatsby”: Comparing the novel to its film adaptations
“The Great Gatsby” in popular culture: References, homages, and parodies
The continued relevance of “The Great Gatsby” in the 21st century
How “The Great Gatsby” reflects the cyclical nature of societal excess and downfall

Call to Action

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Useful References:

The Great Gatsby, F. Scott Fitzgerald – Read the full novel for free on Project Gutenberg.
F. Scott Fitzgerald and the American Dream – A deep dive into the author’s perspective on the American Dream.
The Roaring Twenties and The Great Gatsby – Understand the historical context of the novel.

The Great Gatsby

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Character Analysis

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Essay Topics

Discussion Questions

At the beginning, Nick explains his father’s attitude toward judging the morals of others, which specifically suggests that immoral acts are committed by those with fewer social advantages. By the end of the novel, he has become so disgusted with the East Coast world he’s inhabited that he returns to the Midwest. Do you think his attitude toward moral judgment has changed? Or does he retain the same class-based system of judgment that he began with?

Discuss the tension between realism and fairy tale in this novel. Do you consider this novel realistic? Why, or why not? In what ways does the novel fit the genre of fairy tale? In what ways does it depart?

What is the significance of the valley of ashes? How does the divide between the valley and East and West Egg reflect broader socioeconomic divides in the United States, both in the 1920s and today?

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144 The Great Gatsby Essay Topics

Let’s travel to the roaring 1920s with our collection of The Great Gatsby essay prompts! F. Scott Fitzgerald’s iconic novel, set amidst the luxury and decadence of the Jazz Age, thrills readers with its exploration of love, wealth, and the elusive pursuit of the American Dream. In the Great Gatsby essay topics below, you will find titles about the complex characters and their entwined destinies.

🪩 7 The Great Gatsby Essay Topics

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The American Dream in Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby
The Great Gatsby: Book Review
Old and New Money in The Great Gatsby
Gender in The Great Gatsby & The Yellow Wallpaper
Jay Gatsby and Tom Buchanan: Character Comparison
The Great Gatsby Themes
Benjamin Franklin vs. Jay Gatsby: Character Comparison
Examples of Racism in The Great Gatsby Tom Buchanan’s racism reflects the ideas and situation in the country in the 1920s when the fight for white supremacy could still be observed.
Green Light in The Great Gatsby The Great Gatsby of F. Scott Fitzgerald is known for its symbolism which is very mysterious and intricate as a lot of details.
The Great Gatsby: Gatsby and the Decline of the American Dream This paper will research the decline of Gatsby’s American dream by summarizing the novel, defining the discussed notion, and providing several supporting examples from the story.
Love in Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice” and Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby” The main characters of both modern and traditional works, “Pride and Prejudice” and “The Great Gatsby,” openly say that a human cannot hide her feelings.
The Deception of the American Dream in The Great Gatsby Fitzgerald’s magnum opus The Great Gatsby raises an important question about the legitimacy of the American Dream. The novel centers on Jay Gatsby, a millionaire who came from humble beginnings and spends his time trying to reunite with his former lover, Daisy. Gatsby’s warped perception of success makes him see…
How Money and Wealth Depicted in the Fitzgerald’s “Great Gatsby” Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby shows how wealth is a major element in the social order by showcasing, how money corrupts individual and classifies social groups.
The Great Gatsby as a Reflection of American Culture The protagonist, Jay Gatsby, was the forerunner of an entire literary dynasty of rich personalities with a mysterious past.
“The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald “The Great Gatsby” is a recognized classic of American literature with the characteristic idea of that era – a dream that transforms into a tragedy eventually.
Ethics in The Great Gatsby by Fitzgerald In The Great Gatsby, many of the characters have questionable ethics. The story, written by Scott Fitzgerald, reflects a society where moral decadence thrives
Symbolism in The Great Gatsby In The Great Gatsby there are several symbols but the most powerful appears to be the eyes that overlook the valley from a bill board.
Scott Fitzgerald “The Great Gatsby”: Literary Devices In the book Fitzgerald applies literary techniques such as dramatic irony, allegory, exposition, personification, and foreshadowing to accord the story a smart finishing.
“The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald: Beliefs and Values This paper uses “The Great Gatsby” book to describe the major events and experiences that influenced Francis Scott Fitzgerald’s beliefs and values.
The Sun Also Rises and The Great Gatsby: Comprare & Contrast ‘The Great Gatsby’ by S.Fitzgerald and ‘The Sun also Rises’ by E.Hemingway touched the themes of human challenges, racism and isolation under the impact of war events.
Analysis of The Great Gatsby (2013) This work highlights the possible readings of the film The Great Gatsby according to rhetoric, semiotics, the gaze, and queer theory.
Francis Scott Fitzgerald’s Jazz Age Perception in “The Great Gatsby” The purpose of this paper is to analyze the features used by Fitzgerald in The Great Gatsby in terms of its contribution to the reader’s impression and the work’s status.
Luhrmann’s “The Great Gatsby” as a Deconstruction of the American Dream One way in which the movie deconstructs the idea of the American Dream is by showing that prosperity does not necessarily come in hand with virtue.
“The Great Gatsby” and “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn”: Examination of Material Wealth The paper examines Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby” and Twain’s “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” focusing on the theme of materialistic wealth and its impacts on human life.
Owl Eyes in “The Great Gatsby” by Fitzgerald This paper discusses and examines the significance of the minor character Owl Eyes in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel “The Great Gatsby”.
Imagery in “The Great Gatsby” by F. Fitzgerald The principle imagery of the novel lies in its locations. There are three key locations, which signify different social classes of the American society at the time.
Nick Carraway in “The Great Gatsby” by Scott Fitzgerald In contrast to other characters in The Great Gatsby, Nick goes through a number of changes from the beginning to the end of the novel.
“The Great Gatsby”: What Makes Daisy So Attractive?
Nick and His Experiences of Materialism in “The Great Gatsby”
The Confrontational Relationship Between Tom and Gatsby in F Scott Fitzgerald’s, “The Great Gatsby”
How Women Are Portrayed in “The Great Gatsby”
What Techniques Does Fitzgerald Use to Convey the Main Themes in “The Great Gatsby”
Contrasting Western Morals and Eastern Corruption in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby”
“Love Conquers All: Analyzing Romance and Relationships Within “The Great Gatsby”
“The Great Gatsby”: Morals and American Idealism
Fitzgerald’s Personal Background Paralleled With the Character in “The Great Gatsby”
What Makes One Great? “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald
How the Lost Generation Is Represented in “The Great Gatsby”
The Careless Gaiety and Moral Decadence of the Rich in Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby”
Jay Gatsby´S American Dream in “The Great Gatsby”
The American Dream Turned Nightmare in “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Greed, Lust and the American Dream in “The Great Gatsby”, a Novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Ambition and Its Negative Effects: “The Great Gatsby” and Macbeth
The Deconstruction Post Modern Criticism of “The Great Gatsby”
Morals and American Idealism in “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Gatsby’s Unrealistic American Dream in “The Great Gatsby”
American Culture During “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald
The East Egg and the Corruption of the American Dream in “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Superficial Love and Realistic Love in “The Great Gatsby” by F Scott Fitz
The Great Gatsby: How Money and Class Create and Destroy Relationships Money and class always played a huge role in the life of any society. Since ancient times, people have been marrying for money: The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald.
The Great Gatsby: A Book Review and Summary The Great Gatsby, written by F. Scott Fitzgerald, is highly evaluated among literary critics and perceived to be one of the most prominent novels ever written.
Jay Gatsby and Nick Carraway: Character Analysis This paper compares and contrasts two characters from “The Great Gatsby”, which are Jay Gatsby and Nick Carraway, who represent the novel’s protagonist and narrator respectively
The Great Gatsby: American Dream Concept The movie, The Great Gatsby, satirizes American Dream by showing that it is an illusion that cannot be attained: wealth is not always a product of hard work.
The Great Gatsby: Analysis The main character Jay Gatsby returns after the overpast of World War I. As we see, he is a respectable veteran being newly wealthy. He settles in “West Egg”.
Color Symbolism in The Great Gatsby The novel Great Gatsby depicts the unique vision of the American dream and its impact on the life of a person during the 1920s.
Infidelity in Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby” The Great Gatsby is the story of materialism, its pursuit, symbolism on those who possess it at different stages of life, and how the majority may decline morally in its lure.
Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby” Book and Movie Comparison “The Great Gatsby” can be called a faithful interpretation, however, it still has some personal analysis of the director.
The Role of Love and Women in Great Gatsby and the Sun Also Rises Love is inextricably linked to women in both Fitzgerald’s “Great Gatsby” and Hemingway’s “The Sun Also Rises” so much so that a serious discussion of one cannot be complete without the other.
In the Time of the Butterflies and The Great Gatsby: Compare & Contrast Essay The settings of both stories help us understand the canvasses upon which the authors paint their pictures and contextualizes the actions of stories’ characters.
The American Dream: Jay Gatsby’s Illegal Wealth The American Dream is a happy way of living believed in the US that anyone has a chance for success and can also rise to a higher social or economic position by working hard.
“The Great Gatsby” Is the Best Fitzgerald’s Novel “The Great Gatsby” is practically the most successful book of Francis Scott Fitzgerald as it has been translated into many languages.
Jazz Age in “The Great Gatsby” by Scott Fitzerald The topic of changes in the American society in 1920s, in the book “The Great Gatsby” by Scott Fitzerald, and the change of the concept of the American Dream.
“The Great Gatsby” a Novel by Francis Scott Fitzgerald The novel “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald is set up in the 1920’s, an era during which new liberties were being discovered in fashion.
Failure of American Dream: “The Great Gatsby” by Fitzgerald Review Despite the seeming glamor and wealth, the character of Great Gatsby by Fitzgerald is deeply and inherently tragic.
The Film “The Great Gatsby” and the American Dream The film “The Great Gatsby” is just one example, which leaves hope for people that the American Dream in any of its interpretations is attainable for the majority today.
Jay Gatsby by F. S. Fitzgerald and the American Dream The American Dream means the individual’s striving for success, material well-being, and other kinds of achievement, implying an ascent to recognition, wealth, and fame
The American Dream Discussion Based on the Film “The Great Gatsby” In “The Great Gatsby”, Franklin’s assertion the American Dream is available to all people is incorrect – Gatsby achieved wealth by fraud, but it didn’t fulfill his American dream.
“The Great Gatsby”: The American Dream Is Not Feasible for All “The Great Gatsby” declares that the American Dream is not feasible for all because neither virtuous character nor hard work leads to prosperity, and hope remains unrewarded.
“The Great Gatsby” by F.S. Fitzgerald Hero Review Nick Carraway by “The Great Gatsby” by F.S. Fitzgerald is the novel’s narrator and protagonist who undergoes considerable personal change.
Pursuit of Daisy Buchanan in Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby” “The Great Gatsby” is a novel by F. S. Fitzgerald. The purpose of this essay is to examine whether Gatsby should have sought Daisy and the reasons why this pursuit was justified.
The Great Gatsby: Chapters’ Review Chapter 1: Nick Carraway decides to move from Minnesota to New York. He starts his story by mentioning that his father told him not to judge others.
American Dream in Fitzgeralds’s “The Great Gatsby” Among the many concepts explored in Fitzgeralds’s The Great Gatsby, American Dream is one of the most notable ones.
Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby”: Gatsby’s Impossible Dream In The Great Gatsby, the story concerns a mysterious character named Jay Gatsby. He is exceptionally wealthy, hosting parties at his manor attended by many people.
Society in The Great Gatsby The novel “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald is a bitter satire to the American dream, which according to the ideas of the majority implies the heap of the happiness.
Money & Wealth in The Great Gatsby In The Great Gatsby, Jay wants to win back the only girl he ever felt he loved. It’s hard to blame Gatsby for attempting to win Daisy by impressing her with his material wealth.
Masculinity in The Great Gatsby and The Breakfast Club The paper demonstrates how the American culture depicts masculinity as reflected in media (movies) and American literature in the course readings.
Difference Between Illusion and Reality in “The Great Gatsby”
“The Great Gatsby” Through the Lens of Feminist Criticism
How Money Widens the Gap of Loneliness in “The Great Gatsby”
What Part Does Social Class Play in “The Great Gatsby”?
Broken Dreams and Fallen Themes: The Corruption of the American Dream in “The Great Gatsby”
Dreams the Main Theme in “The Great Gatsby”
Connection Between Saint Hedwig of Silesia and “The Great Gatsby”
Imagination and Its Effects on the World of “The Great Gatsby”
Love Lust and Obsession in “The Great Gatsby”
Beauty and Foolishness: The Role of Pammy Buchanan in “The Great Gatsby”
Discover the Hidden Reality in “The Great Gatsby”
Equating Money and Prosperity to the Power of Love in “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald
What Going From West to East Meant for the Characters in “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald
America and the Decay of Morality: “The Great Gatsby” and “The Sun Also Rises”
How Does the Author Use Theme, Setting, and Character to Instil in the Reader a Desire to Read on “The Great Gatsby”?
Why Has “The Great Gatsby” Been Hailed as the Ultimate Testament to the Glamorous Side of the Jazz Era?
“The Great Gatsby” Displaying the Corruption of the American
“The Great Gatsby”: Fitzgerald Tying Is Life to the Book
Pure Happiness and Self-Satisfaction in the Pursuit of the American Dream in “The Great Gatsby”, a Novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald
“The Great Gatsby”: Evidence of Insecurity and Ambiguity That Question Nick Carraway’s Heterosexuality
Ambition and the American Dream in “The Great Gatsby”
Existentialism, Jungian Analysis, and Marxist Criticism in “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald
“The Great Gatsby”, Their Eyes Were Watching God and Grapes
Man’s Dreams for Elite Social Class in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby”
Similarities Between “The Great Gatsby” and Julius Caesar
Lying and Its Consequences in “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Emotion Over Reason: Frankenstein and “The Great Gatsby”
Dreaming Can Bring Misery in “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitgerald
The Thin Line Between Dreams and Reality in “The Great Gatsby”
Beneath the Surface Glitter, ‘“The Great Gatsby”’ Is a Profoundly Pessimistic Novel
“The Great Gatsby”: Wealth Allows People to Be Careless and Dangerous
Women’s Intentions Towards Men in “The Great Gatsby” by Francis Scott Fitzgerald
Breathing Dreams Like Air in “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald
East and West Egg in “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Overview How Fitzgerald Presents Marriage as a Dysfunctional
Affairs, Wealth, and Murder in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby”
American Dream and Materialism in “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald
How Does Great Gatsby’s Morality Apply to Modern Society?
Achieving Hopes and Dreams in “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Idealized Love Hope and Mortality in “The Great Gatsby”
Death and the Relief of “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Analysis and Literary Interpretation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby”
Greed for Success and Wealth in “The Great Gatsby”
How Is the American Dream Corrupted in “The Great Gatsby”?
What Characters in “The Great Gatsby” Represent the American Dream?
How Did the Author Elicit Sympathy for the Character of Great Gatsby?
What Are the Major Themes in “The Great Gatsby”?
Does Money Buy Happiness in “The Great Gatsby”?
Who Is the Most Tragic Character in “The Great Gatsby”?
How Is Illusion Mistaken for Reality in “The Great Gatsby”?
Is “The Great Gatsby” Movie Accurate to the Book?
Does Money Cause Problems in “The Great Gatsby”?
How Is Happiness Portrayed in “The Great Gatsby”?
What Is the Main Message of “The Great Gatsby”?
Should “The Great Gatsby” Still Be Read in Schools?
How Does Money Affect the Characters in “The Great Gatsby”?
What Makes Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby” a Timeless Classic?
How Is Violence Shown in “The Great Gatsby”?
Does the Novel “The Great Gatsby” Relate to Modern-Day Society?
How Has Fitzgerald Presented the Character of Daisy in “The Great Gatsby”?
What Does Great Gatsby Say About Society?
How Does “The Great Gatsby” Show That Money Can’t Buy Love?
Why Does “The Great Gatsby” Criticize Society?
How Is Social Class Presented in “The Great Gatsby”?
What’s the Difference Between “The Great Gatsby” Movie and Book?
How Does Fitzgerald Portray Class at the Start of “The Great Gatsby”?
What Is Fitzgerald Ultimately Trying to Say About Money and Materialism in “The Great Gatsby”?
Why Is Gatsby Known as Great?

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These essay examples and topics on The Great Gatsby were carefully selected by the StudyCorgi editorial team. They meet our highest standards in terms of grammar, punctuation, style, and fact accuracy. Please ensure you properly reference the materials if you’re using them to write your assignment.

This essay topic collection was updated on January 20, 2024 .

20 The Great Gatsby Essay Topics

Hailed as one of the greatest novels of the 20th century, The Great Gatsby is a story that explores love, betrayal, and the pursuit of the American dream in the 1920s.

If you have been asked to write an essay on this classic novel, you might be a little nervous trying to figure out what you should include. However, don’t worry! This guide will walk you through the process of writing an excellent Gatsby essay and provide 20 The Great Gatsby essay topic ideas.

Essay Writing Essentials

Before you can write an essay on The Great Gatsby, you need to understand the basics of essay writing. This includes developing a clear thesis, supporting your claims with evidence from the book, and crafting a solid conclusion.

Writing a Thesis

A thesis statement details the overall point or argument you intend to make in the essay. Therefore, a thesis statement must be clear, specific, and arguable. A thesis statement will be best placed at the end of your first paragraph or as a way to wrap up your introduction if it is multiple paragraphs.

Some examples of well-written thesis statements for a The Great Gatsby include:

“While The Great Gatsby appears to be a novel about love, in reality, it is a scathing critique of the American dream.”

“Though Jay Gatsby is wealthy and well-liked, he is ultimately a tragic figure because he cannot escape his past.”

“The relationships in The Great Gatsby are all ultimately doomed because the characters are not honest with each other or themselves.”

Developing Supporting Claims for the Body

To support your thesis statement, you will need to include evidence from the novel in the form of quotes and analysis. It is vital that you choose passages that directly relate to your thesis and that you explain how these quotes support your argument.

One way to find quotes that support your thesis is to look for passages that seem particularly significant or interesting to you. Then, once you have a few potential quotes in mind, try to come up with a sentence or two explaining how the quote supports your argument. This will help you determine if the quote is actually relevant to your essay or if you need to keep looking.

It can also be helpful to go back to your list of potential thesis statements and look for quotes that could support each one. This way, you can get a sense of which quotes will be most beneficial for your essay before writing.

Crafting a Strong Conclusion

Your conclusion should briefly summarize the main points of your essay and reiterate your thesis statement. You might also want to leave the reader with something to think about or a call to action if you feel strongly about the issue you have been discussing.

A strong conclusion might look something like this:

“Though Gatsby’s pursuit of the American dream is ultimately fruitless, his efforts are nonetheless admirable. His willingness to fight for what he wants, even in the face of overwhelming odds, is something that we can all learn from.”

Citing and Formatting Essays About Books

In addition to using evidence from the novel to support your claims, you will also need to cite any sources you use in your essay. This includes any quotes or paraphrases from The Great Gatsby and any outside sources you might have used.

Citing Sources

When citing a quote from The Great Gatsby, you will need to include the page number in parentheses after the quote. For example:

“Daisy’s voice was sad ‘I hope she’ll be a fool – that’s the best thing a girl can be in this world, a beautiful little fool.'” (10).

If you are paraphrasing or summarizing a passage from The Great Gatsby, you will just need to include the page number in parentheses after the paraphrase. For example:

Gatsby’s wealth is often seen as a symbol of his success, but it is also clear that money cannot buy happiness. (21)

If you cite an outside source, you will need to include both the author’s name and the page number (or, for sources that don’t use page numbers, the section or chapter number) in parentheses after the quote. For example:

“The Great Gatsby is widely regarded as a masterpiece of American fiction” (Baldwin 3).

Formatting an Essay About a Book

When formatting your essay, there are a few key things you need to keep in mind. First, all mentions of the book’s title need to be italicized or underlined. Second, your essay should have one-inch margins on all sides.

Your essay should also have a title page that includes the title of your essay, your name, and the name of your class. If you are writing a longer essay (5 or more pages), you may need to also include a header on each page. It’s best to speak with your instructor to clarify any specific formatting requirements for the assignment.

Now that you know how to write an essay on The Great Gatsby, you can start brainstorming potential topics for your paper. If you are having trouble, consider using or adapting one of the following topics.

How does Gatsby’s wealth (or lack thereof) impact his relationships?
How does Gatsby’s pursuit of the American dream ultimately fail?
What role do women play in The Great Gatsby?
How are the parties that Gatsby throws symbolic of his own emptiness?
How does Fitzgerald use symbolism to comment on the state of the American dream?
What role does fate play in The Great Gatsby?
Is Gatsby a tragic hero? If so, why?
How is The Great Gatsby an example of the “Lost Generation”?
What role does the past play in The Great Gatsby?
How do the relationships between men and women change throughout the novel?
How is The Great Gatsby a commentary on the class divisions in American society?
What role does morality play in The Great Gatsby?
How do the characters in The Great Gatsby represent different aspects of the American dream?
What role does money play in The Great Gatsby?
Is Gatsby a sympathetic character? Why or why not?
How is Nick Carraway’s role as narrator important to the novel?
How does Fitzgerald use setting to comment on the characters and events in The Great Gatsby?
What role do secrets play in The Great Gatsby?
How is The Great Gatsby a commentary on the corruption of the American dream?
What theme(s) are explored in The Great Gatsby?

These topics should provide any student assigned an essay on The Great Gatsby with plenty to write about. If you need further help, consider using or adapting one of these topics for your own paper.

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The Great Gatsby

By f. scott fitzgerald, the great gatsby essay questions.

Analyze Fitzgerald's conception of the American Dream. Does he view it as totally dead, or is it possible to revive it?

Is Nick a reliable narrator? How does his point of view color the reality of the novel, and what facts or occurences would he have a vested interest in obscuring?

Trace the use of the color white in the novel. When does it falsify a sense of innocence? When does it symbolize true innocence?

Do a close reading of the description of the "valley of ashes." How does Fitzgerald use religious imagery in this section of the novel?

What does the green light symbolize to Gatsby? To Nick?

How does Fitzgerald juxtapose the different regions of America? Does he write more positively about the East or the Midwest?

What is the distinction between East and West Egg? How does one bridge the gap between the two?

In what ways are Wilson and Gatsby similar? Disimilar? Who is Nick more sympathetic to?

How does Fitzgerald treat New York City? What is permissable in the urban space that is taboo on the Eggs?

Is Tom most responsible for Gatsby's death? Daisy? Myrtle? Gatsby himself? Give reasons why or why not each character is implicated in the murder.

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The Great Gatsby Questions and Answers

The Question and Answer section for The Great Gatsby is a great resource to ask questions, find answers, and discuss the novel.

describe daisy and gatsby's new relationship

There are two points at which Daisy and Gatsby's relationship could be considered "new". First, it seems that their "new" relationship occurs as Tom has become enlightened about their affair. It seems as if they are happy...

Describe Daisy and Gatsby new relationship?

http://www.gradesaver.com/the-great-gatsby/q-and-a/describe-daisy-and-gatsbys-new-relationship-70077/

What are some quotes in chapter 1 of the great gatsby that show the theme of violence?

I don't recall any violence in in chapter 1.

Study Guide for The Great Gatsby

The Great Gatsby is typically considered F. Scott Fitzgerald's greatest novel. The Great Gatsby study guide contains a biography of F. Scott Fitzgerald, literature essays, quiz questions, major themes, characters, and a full summary and analysis.

About The Great Gatsby
The Great Gatsby Summary
The Great Gatsby Video
Character List

Essays for The Great Gatsby

The Great Gatsby essays are academic essays for citation. These papers were written primarily by students and provide critical analysis of The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald.

Foreshadowing Destiny
The Eulogy of a Dream
Materialism Portrayed By Cars in The Great Gatsby
Role of Narration in The Great Gatsby
A Great American Dream

Lesson Plan for The Great Gatsby

About the Author
Study Objectives
Common Core Standards
Introduction to The Great Gatsby
Relationship to Other Books
Bringing in Technology
Notes to the Teacher
Related Links
The Great Gatsby Bibliography

Wikipedia Entries for The Great Gatsby

Introduction
Historical and biographical context
Plot summary
Major characters
Writing and production

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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, how to write a compare/contrast essay for the great gatsby.

Book Guides

These compare/contrast essays are an opportunity for you to tie the character similarities and differences to larger observations about society and class, the American Dream , or identity in the novel. They also allow you to practice standard English class skills: close reading, using lines from the text as evidence, and taking a stance and presenting a supporting argument in an essay.

We’ll go over some basic dos and don’ts for writing compare/contrast essays before diving into some analysis of the most asked-about character pairings. Keep reading if you have a Compare/Contrast assignment on the horizon!

Article Roadmap

The do's of a compare and contrast essay
The don'ts of a compare contrast essay
Why some characters are paired for comparison more often than others
Nick and Gatsby
Tom and George
Tom and Gatsby
Daisy and Jordan
Daisy and Myrtle

What to Do in a Compare/Contrast Essay

Like anything you write for English class, your essay should be clearly organized, with a thesis statement (a one-sentence summary of your argument), and topic sentences for each body paragraph.

And you should definitely have an overall argument! The point of the compare/contrast essay isn’t for you to just list the differences and similarities between two characters, you need to take those observations and make a larger argument about the novel as a whole . That larger argument allows you to practice writing an essay that contains an argument, which is a skill that nearly all English teachers are focused on building.

To take a quick example, don’t just list the differences between Tom Buchanan and Jay Gatsby. Instead, make an argument like, “Fitzgerald’s portrayal of wealthy New York society through Jay Gatsby and Tom Buchanan allows him to critique both old money and the newly rich, while reserving his most pointed critiques for the old money crowd.” (Obviously, that’s just one example, and there are dozens of potential arguments you could make while comparing and contrasting characters in Gatsby!)

Make sure to address your larger argument in each body paragraph as you draw out the similarities and differences between the two characters. Don’t get caught in the weeds as you tease out the many differences and similarities in each character pair. Always link back to the bigger picture.

Finally, analyze each quote you use – in other words, don’t stick a quote in your essay and do nothing with it. Make sure to explain how and why the quote demonstrates a key similarity or difference, and what that means for your bigger argument.

What to Avoid in a Compare/Contrast Essay

Don’t just list differences and similarities without an overarching argument . Although you can definitely start brainstorming by making a list of similarities and differences, just presenting that list in essay form won’t get you a good grade, since you need to go deeper and explain what the similarities/differences suggest about the novel as a whole.

And, on the other side, don’t make big claims without some evidence from the text to back them up . For example, don’t say “Tom is selfish while Gatsby cares about others.” Prove those two separate claims (Tom is selfish” and “Gatsby cares about others”) with relevant lines from the book. (And if you’re having a hard time locating good quotes, find a digital version of Gatsby you can search using the CTRL-F function. It’s a lifesaver when gathering relevant quotes for an essay!)

Why Are These Characters Paired Most Often?

We will tackle these major pairings in the next sections of this article:

Nick Carraway and Jay Gatsby

Tom buchanan and jay gatsby, tom buchanan and george wilson, daisy buchanan and jordan baker, daisy buchanan and myrtle wilson.

Before we dig into the analysis, you might be wondering: “why are we only comparing characters of the same gender?” or maybe “why not other pairings? Why not Jordan and Myrtle, or Nick and Tom?” We are focusing on these specific pairings because they are by far the most commonly asked about pairs in essay prompts and discussion topics for The Great Gatsby . And we want this guide, first and foremost, to be helpful to students as you work on assignments involving Gatsby!

Furthermore, these pairings help teachers get you to explore some of the novel’s larger themes . For example, comparing Daisy/ Myrtle or Tom/George can help you explore the differences between the wealthy and the working class . Comparing Daisy/Myrtle or Daisy/Jordan can help you explore the changing status of women during the 1920s. Comparing Tom and Gatsby can get at the old money/new money divide. Finally, differences between Nick and Gatsby raise some of the novel’s larger questions about the American Dream , repeating the past, and identity. In short, these pairings have become common because they each allow fairly easy access to one of the novel’s larger issues.

That’s not to say you couldn’t also explore some of those themes by comparing, say, Jordan and George, or Daisy and Gatsby, but cross-gender compare/contrast essays can be challenging because the status of women and men is so different in the novel. If you are interested in seeing how a particular male and female character are paired, you may be better off studying them through the lens of love, desire, and relationships in the novel, or through the way they relate to one of the novel's symbols or motifs.

With those thoughts in mind, let's jump into the top 5 pairings! For each pairing, we will suggest a few possible larger arguments you can either build from or disagree with, but these are far from comprehensive! You should add to our analysis of the characters and come up with an argument you’re excited about.

Quick Note on Our Citations

Our citation format in this guide is (chapter.paragraph). We're using this system since there are many editions of Gatsby, so using page numbers would only work for students with our copy of the book. To find a quotation we cite via chapter and paragraph in your book, you can either eyeball it (Paragraph 1-50: beginning of chapter; 50-100: middle of chapter; 100-on: end of chapter), or use the search function if you're using an online or eReader version of the text.

Although Jay Gatsby and Nick Carraway vary both in outlook and temperament, they are also alike in interesting ways. Despite somewhat similar desires, attitudes, and social positions, Nick and Gatsby make very different choices during the novel.

Love and Romance . Nick and Gatsby both want women that are out of their reach, although in different degrees. Daisy is miles above Gatsby in terms of social class. Jordan and Nick are of the same social status, but Jordan doesn't seem free to make her own decisions since an aunt controls her financial life. There is a significant passion gap between Gatsby and Nick as well. Gatsby obsesses over Daisy - he has thought of nothing else for five years, going as far as to buy a house across the bay from her just in case she notices. Nick, meanwhile, is attracted to Jordan's cool and self-sufficient demeanor, but he is clearly not in love with her, as he himself notes ("I wasn't actually in love, but I felt a sort of tender curiosity" (3.159)).

Approach to Women. Both men are not particularly interested in the inner lives of the women they want to be with. Gatsby is devastated when Daisy doesn't want to renounce her relationship with Tom completely. Similarly, Nick cavalierly discounts Jordan's penchant to lie, cheat, and generally be cynically uninterested in other people, and then is deeply disappointed when she acts this way after Myrtle's death.

Class and Social Standing. Although both Gatsby and Nick are outsiders to the wealthy communities of East and West Egg, Nick is a much more in-between character socially than Gatsby. Nick is familiar with the ways of the old money crowd because of his own family's privilege and the fact that he is related to Daisy. Gatsby is not only self-made, but is a criminal who is desperate to pass as part of the old money elite without knowing its customs or rules of behavior. What isolates Nick from East Egg life is his Midwestern values and the importance he places on morality and decency. Gatsby is isolated from everyone by the fact that he can never actually be himself - he is always playing a role and putting on his "Oxford man" persona. It may be this sense of feeling out of place that connects them.

Outlook and Temperament. Gatsby is an optimist (almost to a delusional degree) while Nick is a realist who finds Gatsby's idealism inspiring and admirable. Gatsby believes in his ability to shape his own life and future, which makes sense since he has managed to transform himself from a farmer to a successful gangster, to impersonate an "Oxford man," and to accumulate a fantastic amount of wealth in a very short time. This belief in his power translates to Gatsby being sure that he and Daisy can go back to their month of idyllic love ("'Can't repeat the past?', he cried incredulously. 'Why of course you can!'" (6.129). Nick tries his best to be an objective realist and to reign in his tendency to judge others. He is deeply in awe of self-directed men like Gatsby, and even Wolfshiem (Nick is amazed to think that one man could be behind a huge event like the rigged World Series).

Ambition. Gatsby dreams of greatness. As a young man his mind “romped like the mind of God,” and so as an adult, he seems to have made good on this promise by buying the most ridiculous mansion and throwing the most extravagant parties (6.134). Nick is much less ambitious in comparison. While he comes to New York seeking excitement, he doesn't want to be the wealthiest bond salesman on Wall Street or to have the biggest house. He is happy to be an observer at the edge of the drama rather than being in its midst.

Nick and Gatsby Essay Ideas

Here are potential arguments to build on or disagree with based our observations. These are certainly not the only possible arguments, so be creative! Make sure your essay considers what the similarities and differences between Nick and Gatsby reveal about the novel as a whole.

Nick is a passive person and Gatsby is active, which is why Gatsby is the hero and Nick simply the observer.
Nick has much more in common with Gatsby than he thinks he does, which explains why he becomes so enamored of him.
Nick serves as a foil (someone who serves as a contrast) to Gatsby, which makes Nick the best possible observer of Gatsby.
At the end of the novel, Tom says that Gatsby “threw dirt in [Nick’s] eyes, just like Daisy’s,” meaning that both Nick and Daisy were taken in and could never see the true Gatsby: a narcissist and a criminal. Tom is right - the whole novel is Nick trying to spin a negative character into a positive one.

As they battle over Daisy’s love, Tom Buchanan and Jay Gatsby sometimes seem surprisingly similar - particular in their self-centeredness, wealth, and concern with appearances. At the same time, these surface parallels point to major conflicts in their social class, and say a lot about the world of the novel.

Appearance. Gatsby is driven by his materialism to be very invested having fashionable clothes, a beautiful mansion, and visually overwhelming parties - for him, the outfit is the thing that makes the Oxford man . Meanwhile because Tom doesn't have to dress the part of the moneyed elite to be one, he is instead very attuned to the behavior of others. This is why he immediately sees how fake Gatsby's persona is, both because of Gatsby's overly ostentatious clothes, and because of how much Gatsby misreads the fake invitation from the Sloanes. Tom is never fooled into thinking that Gatsby is anything other than an upstart, and mostly likely a criminal one.

Self-Centeredness. Tom and Gatsby are both completely selfish, and fully convinced that their desires have to be acquiesced to by those around them. Tom, for example, starts his affair with Myrtle by pressing himself against her on a train platform - basically, his version of flirting is bodily assault. Gatsby, meanwhile, also thinks nothing of starting an affair with a married woman, assuming that his obsessive feelings are enough to justify any behavior.

Wealth. Despite the fact that both are unimaginably rich, these men come from totally different sides of the big money divide. Tom comes from old money and is forever worried about the encroachment of the nouveau riche, minorities, and others onto what he thinks is his. At the same time, Gatsby is the most successful of the novel's many ambitious social climbers, using his lack of ethical scruples to parlay his criminal activity into a higher social status.

Power. Tom loves being powerful and wields his power directly. He is physically aggressive and uses his body to threaten and intimidate (Nick, for one, is clearly very cowed by Tom's bulk). He is also quick to violence, whether it's socially sanctioned - like his football accomplishments - or not - like when he breaks Myrtle's nose without a second thought. Gatsby also holds significant power, but his methods are much more indirect. Still, whether he is offering Nick some illegal bond trading action, or showing off his get-out-of-a-ticket-free card to a cop on the highway, Gatsby is clearly happy to be in control of a situation.

Love. Tom and Gatsby both seem to be in love with Daisy. But what does that really mean to each of them? For Tom, Daisy is clearly partly appealing because she completes his horse-riding, East Egg, 350-thousand-dollar pearl necklace lifestyle. He cheats on her because he clearly has never denied himself anything, but he also understands Daisy as a person. He knows that she is too weak to leave him, but he also loves her enough to tolerate her affair with Gatsby and to stay with her after Myrtle's murder. Gatsby's love, on the other hand, is in some ways purer because he so idealizes Daisy and connects her to all of his other hopes and dreams. But this love is overly pure - he doesn't really seem to know Daisy as anything other than an idealized object, and is incapable of accepting that she has led a life apart from him for five years.

Tom and Gatsby Essay Ideas

In a compare/contrast essay, you can’t just present a list of similarities and differences. You also need to have an underlying argument you’re supporting. Feel free to take these at face value or as jumping-off points for your own thoughts.

Tom loves Daisy as a person, Gatsby loves her as an idea.
Both Tom and Gatsby’s tendency to control women and see them as prizes reveals the misogyny of the 1920s.
Although Tom sees Gatsby as someone from an entirely different class than him, what they have in common (selfishness, affairs, obsession with appearances) makes a larger argument for an overall moral hollowness of the rich of any class.
We see both Gatsby and Tom through the eyes of Nick, who worships one of them and hates the other. In reality, they are both much more similar than different, and their different treatment reveals Nick's insecurities and biases.

At first, most readers see Tom Buchanan and George Wilson as opposites. But, these markedly different characters face very similar circumstances and offer two takes on masculinity and power in the novel.

Appearance and Presence. Where Tom is strong and cowering, George is meek and shrinking. Tom exudes power and confidence while George tends to just fade into the background. These differences are borne out in the way these two men interact with the world. Tom is violent towards others, while George’s instinct is to be passive or to try and escape situations, the notable exceptions being his locking up of Myrtle and murder of Gatsby. Tom is confident, privileged, and assured while George is timid; George is “ruled by his wife” where Tom is selfish and acts on his own desires.

Reaction to Adversity. There is a dramatic difference in the way the two men react to the fact that their wives are cheating on them. Tom notices Daisy’s love for Gatsby and immediately starts making power plays. On the other hand, George discovers Myrtle’s affair and is undone by it. Nick compares the two men in a memorable description:

“the shock had made him physically sick. I stared at him and then at Tom, who had made a parallel discovery less than an hour before--and it occurred to me that there was no difference between men, in intelligence or race, so profound as the difference between the sick and the well. Wilson was so sick that he looked guilty, unforgivably guilty--as if he had just got some poor girl with child" (7.160).

In this description, Tom is “well” and George is “sick.” These are certainly arresting ways to describe Tom's more traditional masculinity and George's less overtly masculine character. Tom is self-assured in the face of adversity and immediately takes action to win Daisy back, insisting on driving Gatsby's car, bullying those around him into driving to Manhattan, and using his romance skills to remind Daisy of the pluses of their relationship. Meanwhile, George's weakness makes him look sick and guilty as he contemplates Myrtle's betrayal and is driven to violence to reassert his power over her.

Approach to Women. Both Tom and George assume they know what’s best for their wives: Tom dismisses Daisy’s professed love for Gatsby despite their obvious closeness, while George is determined to take Myrtle out west once he learns about the affair. But, while it seems that Tom does fundamentally understand Daisy and is right about her unwillingness to leave their marriage, George is unable to hold on to Myrtle either emotionally or physically. She is killed trying to run away from him.

Tom and George Essay Ideas

Differences in attitude and outcome, despite a relatively similar situation, reveal some unexpected truths about the world of the novel. Argue the reverse of any of these topics for a really provocative essay!

The fact that Tom manipulates George into killing Gatsby and then himself (which allows Tom and Daisy to walk away from the entire affair without consequence) shows the huge privileges of having money in the novel.
Nick's approach to Tom and George shows his admiration of a physical, brutish, domineering kind of masculinity.
The fact that the relatively good guy turns into a murderer while the bad guy lives to cheat another day is a very cynical take on what happens in a world without a moral compass.

Despite Daisy Buchanan and Jordan Baker 's similar “white girlhoods” (1.140) in Louisville, their attitude and motivations are quite distinct, making them really interesting to compare and contrast.

Attitude and Outlook. Both Daisy and Jordan display an entitled, bored attitude that’s typical of Fitzgerald’s depiction of the old money segment of wealthy New York society. The fact that they are introduced in tandem, both lying on the couches in their white dresses, speaks to their initially similar attitudes. But soon we see how different their takes on this kind of life are. Daisy is increasingly despondent, even nihilistic, asking in Chapter 7 , “what shall we do today, and tomorrow, and for the next thirty years?” (7.74). Jordan meanwhile is a pragmatic opportunist, who sees possibilities everywhere, arguing that “life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall” (7.75). In other words, Daisy’s pessimistic attitude from Chapter 1 comes through again, while Jordan, despite coming across as cynical and sharp, actually still seems excited about the possibilities life has to offer.

Appearance and Personality. Both Daisy and Jordan very alluring in their own way, though Daisy’s allure comes through her enchanting voice and feminine charms, while Jordan is masculine, “jaunty,” witty, sharp, and physical. Daisy maintains a squeaky-clean reputation despite moving with a fast crowd, while there are plenty of rumors about Jordan’s cheating in golf, and Nick comments on her dishonest attitude. More significantly, Daisy is incredibly self-absorbed while Jordan is very observant.

Role in Society. Daisy seems caught between what society expects of her and some deeper, more powerful desires she can’t name, resulting in restlessness, depression, and her affair. Daisy is sticking to her prescribed societal role by marrying and having a child, while Jordan plays golf, “runs around town” and doesn’t seem to be in a hurry to marry, at least in the beginning of the novel. Perhaps Jordan is still somewhat optimistic about the possibilities of life since she hasn’t settled down yet, while Daisy realizes that nothing major in her life will change at this point. Jordan, meanwhile, is content to chase after fun and intrigue via other people’s bad behavior. And she doesn’t get dragged down by the tragedy in the book – on the contrary, she is callous in how little Myrtle’s death seems to shake her, coolly calling Nick the next day and asking him to meet like nothing has happened (8.50-61). Perhaps her motivations are a bit less accessible to the reader since her role was significantly downsized between some of Fitzgerald’s earlier drafts. But in any case, as we watch Daisy struggle in her marriage, what we see of Jordan is cool, calm, collected, and rather uncaring.

Daisy and Jordan Essay Ideas

So what are some possible conclusions we can draw from Daisy and Jordan’s characters? One of the most common strategies is to tie the differences between these women onto one of the book’s larger themes, like the role of society and class or the American Dream . Another is to think about an important feature of the novel, like Nick’s narration, and see what these two characters can reveal about it. With those strategies in mind, here are some potential arguments you could argue for or against!

Jordan and Daisy, because they are generally disempowered, both use their sexuality in different ways to gain power, with different results.
Despite Jordan’s overt cheating and lying, Daisy is, in fact, the more morally compromised person.
The way Nick treats Jordan versus the way he describes Daisy reveals the novel’s preoccupation with Gatsby above all, to the detriment of the female characters.

While Daisy Buchanan and Myrtle Wilson obviously come from very different backgrounds and have conflicting motivations, they also have some surprising similarities.

Physical Appearance. Daisy and Myrtle both derive power from their looks. Myrtle's comfort with her voluptuous body is clearly appealing to Tom, while Daisy's magnetic voice and ethereal presence obsess Gatsby. Throughout the novel, Myrtle is frequently reduced to being just a body - one to be used or violated by those around her. Tom sees little in Myrtle besides someone to either rub up against, have sex with, or punch at will; George resorts to imprisoning Myrtle while she eggs him on to "beat" her (7.314) the way Tom does; and finally, Daisy gruesomely rips Myrtle's body apart with a car. Meanwhile, Daisy's voice also serves to make her less of a person in her own right and more of an idealized, mythic figure from fairy tales. For Gatsby, Daisy's voice is appealing because it is "full of money" (7.105) - he is attracted to her not because of who she is, but because he sees her as a prize.

Social Standing. Myrtle puts on the airs that Daisy has been born and raised with. This allows Myrtle to wield considerable social power within her group, as seen by how her guests fawn on her at the Manhattan party she throws. Daisy, in contrast, never exerts such overt power over a group – rather, she seems to move with crowds, doing what it expected of her (for instance marrying Tom despite still loving Gatsby).

Love and Relationships. Daisy and Myrtle’s marriages are strikingly quite different. Daisy and Tom are able to stay together even through serial affairs and murder. They end up loyal co-conspirators, protected by their wealth. Meanwhile, Myrtle has nothing but disdain for George despite his evident love for her. Still, both women use affairs with other men as a way to escape. Daisy wants to get away from an increasingly unhappy marriage and try to recapture the spontaneity and possibility of her youth, while Myrtle loves the status that her affair with Tom grants her. However, both learn that they can’t escape forever through their affairs. Obviously, their biggest difference is that Daisy gets to walk away from the novel unscathed, while Myrtle gets killed.

Daisy and Myrtle Essay Ideas

Here are ways to write about these different women who face similar choices with dramatically opposite conclusions.

Despite their similarities in action and motivation, Daisy is protected from any lasting harm by her wealth and old money status, while Myrtle is punished for the same behavior, revealing how the class system in America protects the wealthy.
The novel refuses to give any inner life to women, and instead reduces them to their physical qualities no matter what social class they come from. Daisy and Myrtle's similar treatment by the narrator and by the men around them shows that gender trumps class when determining status.
Daisy and Myrtle’s similarities reveal how hollow the progress of the women’s movement really was at that point in time. Despite the big gains the movement made in the early twentieth century, including winning the right to vote and pushing for more freedom in how they could dress and act, both of these women’s lives aren’t vastly improved. They’re both trapped in unhappy marriages, they both rely on their looks/charms/sexuality to get what they want, and neither of them has even a chance of pursuing a fulfilling life through a career.

What’s Next?

Now that you’ve gone over the novel’s most popular compare/contrast pairings, check out our analysis of the novel’s romantic pairings in our guide to love, desire, and relationships in The Great Gatsby .

Have an essay about a symbol or motif? Get started with our symbols overview and motifs overview.

Still a little hazy on some of the plot elements in Gatsby? Not to worry, we have you covered with our complete book summary !

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Anna scored in the 99th percentile on her SATs in high school, and went on to major in English at Princeton and to get her doctorate in English Literature at Columbia. She is passionate about improving student access to higher education.

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The Great Gatsby Research Paper Topics

This page provides a comprehensive guide to The Great Gatsby research paper topics , meticulously curated to assist students in their literary endeavors. The vast and complex world of The Great Gatsby offers a rich ground for in-depth analysis and academic discourse. From exploring the intricate web of themes woven by F. Scott Fitzgerald, to the multifaceted characters that populate this timeless narrative, and the novel’s enduring cultural impact, there is a treasure trove of topics to delve into. Additionally, we present iResearchNet’s top-tier writing services, designed to support students in crafting exceptional research papers on any chosen topic. Your journey into the mesmerizing world of The Great Gatsby begins here.

100 The Great Gatsby Research Paper Topics

The Great Gatsby , penned by F. Scott Fitzgerald, is a seminal work that has inspired a vast array of The Great Gatsby research paper topics. The novel is a brilliant tapestry of themes, characters, and plot intricacies that continue to spark discussions and analyses in literature and society. It delves deep into the American Dream, the socio-economic context of the 1920s, the complexities of human relationships, and many other aspects that make it a timeless and multifaceted narrative. This list provides a comprehensive collection of research paper topics, carefully divided into ten categories, each with ten topics. These topics encompass themes, character analysis, symbolism, socio-economic context, Fitzgerald’s biography, literary devices, narrative structure, film adaptations, cultural impact, and contemporary interpretations.

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The disillusionment of the American Dream in The Great Gatsby .
The role of wealth and social status in shaping characters’ lives in The Great Gatsby .
The depiction of love and desire in The Great Gatsby .
The contrast between reality and illusion in The Great Gatsby .
The theme of moral decay in The Great Gatsby .
The significance of the past in shaping the present in The Great Gatsby .
The role of loneliness and isolation in The Great Gatsby .
The exploration of gender roles in The Great Gatsby .
The theme of materialism in The Great Gatsby .
The portrayal of the Jazz Age in The Great Gatsby .

Character Analysis

The transformation of Jay Gatsby: A character analysis.
The complexities of Daisy Buchanan: A character analysis.
The role of Nick Carraway as the narrator and character.
The depiction of Tom Buchanan as a representation of the American upper class.
The character of Jordan Baker and her role in the narrative.
The significance of minor characters in The Great Gatsby .
The portrayal of Myrtle Wilson as a victim of her society.
The comparison of Jay Gatsby and Tom Buchanan.
The character development of Nick Carraway throughout the novel.
The influence of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s life on the characters of The Great Gatsby .
The significance of the green light in The Great Gatsby .
The role of the eyes of Doctor T. J. Eckleburg in The Great Gatsby .
The symbolism of the Valley of Ashes in The Great Gatsby .
The use of color symbolism in The Great Gatsby .
The representation of the East Egg and West Egg in The Great Gatsby .
The symbolism of cars and driving in The Great Gatsby .
The role of parties and social gatherings in The Great Gatsby .
The symbolism of weather in The Great Gatsby .
The significance of the title “The Great Gatsby”.
The symbolism of names in The Great Gatsby .

Socio-Economic Context

The depiction of the Roaring Twenties in The Great Gatsby .
The impact of the socio-economic status of characters in The Great Gatsby .
The contrast between old money and new money in The Great Gatsby .
The portrayal of social mobility in The Great Gatsby .
The role of class distinctions in The Great Gatsby .
The depiction of the American Dream’s accessibility in The Great Gatsby .
The influence of historical events on the plot of The Great Gatsby .
The portrayal of the upper class’s superficiality in The Great Gatsby .
The depiction of the decline of the American Dream in the 1920s.
The impact of the Jazz Age on the characters and plot of The Great Gatsby .

Author’s Biography

The influence of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s life on The Great Gatsby .
The impact of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s relationships on The Great Gatsby .
The parallels between F. Scott Fitzgerald and the character of Jay Gatsby.
The reflection of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s struggles with alcoholism in The Great Gatsby .
The influence of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s experiences in World War I on The Great Gatsby .
The impact of the Jazz Age on F. Scott Fitzgerald and The Great Gatsby .
The role of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s upbringing in shaping The Great Gatsby .
The influence of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s financial struggles on The Great Gatsby .
The role of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s mental health in shaping The Great Gatsby .
The reflection of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s aspirations and disappointments in The Great Gatsby .

Literary Devices

The use of symbolism in The Great Gatsby .
The role of the first-person narrative in The Great Gatsby .
The use of imagery in The Great Gatsby .
The significance of the narrative structure in The Great Gatsby .
The use of foreshadowing in The Great Gatsby .
The role of irony in The Great Gatsby .
The use of metaphors and similes in The Great Gatsby .
The significance of the novel’s ending in The Great Gatsby .
The role of motifs in The Great Gatsby .
The use of language and diction in The Great Gatsby .

Narrative Structure

The role of Nick Carraway as the unreliable narrator in The Great Gatsby .
The significance of the chronological order of events in The Great Gatsby .
The use of flashbacks in The Great Gatsby .
The role of the narrative voice in The Great Gatsby .
The significance of the novel’s opening and closing lines in The Great Gatsby .
The role of perspective in shaping the narrative of The Great Gatsby .
The use of multiple narrators in The Great Gatsby .
The impact of the narrative style on the reader’s interpretation of The Great Gatsby .
The role of the narrative structure in shaping the themes of The Great Gatsby .
The impact of the narrative pacing on the reader’s experience of The Great Gatsby .

Film Adaptations

A comparison of the 1974 and 2013 film adaptations of The Great Gatsby .
The impact of the film adaptations on the perception of The Great Gatsby .
The accuracy of the film adaptations in portraying the novel’s themes and characters.
The role of the setting and costume design in the film adaptations of The Great Gatsby .
The impact of the casting choices on the portrayal of the characters in the film adaptations of The Great Gatsby .
The significance of the musical score in the film adaptations of The Great Gatsby .
The role of the director’s vision in shaping the film adaptations of The Great Gatsby .
The impact of the film adaptations on the popularity of The Great Gatsby .
The role of the screenplay in adapting The Great Gatsby for the screen.
The impact of the film adaptations on contemporary interpretations of The Great Gatsby .

Cultural Impact

The influence of The Great Gatsby on American literature.
The role of The Great Gatsby in shaping the American Dream’s perception.
The impact of The Great Gatsby on popular culture.
The influence of The Great Gatsby on subsequent works of literature.
The role of The Great Gatsby in shaping the 1920s’ cultural perception.
The impact of The Great Gatsby on the portrayal of the Jazz Age in literature and film.
The influence of The Great Gatsby on the portrayal of gender roles in literature and film.
The role of The Great Gatsby in shaping the perception of wealth and social status in American culture.
The impact of The Great Gatsby on the portrayal of the American upper class in literature and film.
The influence of The Great Gatsby on the depiction of love and desire in popular culture.

Contemporary Interpretations

The relevance of The Great Gatsby in the 21st century.
The role of The Great Gatsby in shaping contemporary discussions on wealth and social status.
The impact of The Great Gatsby on contemporary portrayals of the American Dream.
The influence of The Great Gatsby on modern interpretations of the Jazz Age.
The role of The Great Gatsby in shaping contemporary discussions on gender roles.
The impact of The Great Gatsby on modern portrayals of love and desire.
The influence of The Great Gatsby on contemporary discussions on materialism.
The role of The Great Gatsby in shaping modern interpretations of the Roaring Twenties.
The impact of The Great Gatsby on contemporary portrayals of moral decay.
The influence of The Great Gatsby on modern discussions on loneliness and isolation.

The significance of The Great Gatsby in literature and culture cannot be overstated. The novel offers a wealth of The Great Gatsby research paper topics for students, researchers, and enthusiasts alike. The intricate web of themes, characters, and narrative devices that Fitzgerald weaves together in this masterpiece continues to provide fertile ground for exploration and analysis. Whether you are interested in delving into the socio-economic context of the 1920s, analyzing the complexities of the characters, exploring the symbolism embedded in the narrative, or examining the novel’s cultural impact and contemporary interpretations, this comprehensive list of research paper topics offers a starting point for your journey into the rich world of The Great Gatsby .

The Great Gatsby

And the range of research paper topics it offers.

The Great Gatsby , penned by F. Scott Fitzgerald, stands as one of the most iconic pieces in American literature, offering a plethora of compelling research paper topics. The novel delves deep into themes such as the American Dream, social stratification, love, and loss, all set against the backdrop of the Roaring Twenties. The range of The Great Gatsby research paper topics is indeed vast, encompassing everything from character analysis, the motifs and symbols utilized, to the novel’s pertinence in today’s society.

The story unfolds through the life of Jay Gatsby, a millionaire shrouded in mystery, famous for his opulent parties, and his unreciprocated love for Daisy Buchanan, a married woman. Narrated by Nick Carraway, Gatsby’s neighbor and confidant, Fitzgerald masterfully depicts the Jazz Age, an era marked by unparalleled economic prosperity, jazz music, and liberalized social norms. Yet, beneath the shimmering surface, the novel lays bare a darker side of society, marked by moral decline, cynicism, and a pursuit of fulfillment that often culminates in tragedy.

One of the novel’s pivotal themes is the American Dream, a belief rooted in the idea that anyone, irrespective of their background, can achieve success through perseverance and hard work. Gatsby, who rises from poverty to amass a fortune through questionable means, is driven by his desire to win back Daisy, the love of his life. His journey, however, proves futile as he realizes that wealth and social standing do not guarantee happiness or fulfillment. This theme presents a fertile ground for exploration, and there are numerous The Great Gatsby research paper topics that delve into the novel’s commentary on the American Dream, its attainability, and its ultimate hollowness.

Social stratification is another prominent theme in The Great Gatsby . The novel is set during a time when America was deeply segregated along class lines. The characters hail from diverse social strata, and their interactions reveal the prevalent biases and prejudices of the time. For instance, Tom Buchanan, Daisy’s husband, is a wealthy yet arrogant individual who looks down upon those from lower social strata. Despite his affluence, Gatsby is never fully embraced by the old money elite. This theme opens up a myriad of The Great Gatsby research paper topics related to class struggle, the impact of wealth on relationships, and the role of social status in shaping one’s identity.

The characters in The Great Gatsby are intricate and multi-faceted, each representing different aspects of human nature. Jay Gatsby, the central character, is a charismatic yet enigmatic figure, whose fixation with the past ultimately leads to his demise. Daisy Buchanan is enchanting and charming, yet also superficial and self-absorbed. Tom Buchanan is domineering and aggressive, embodying the old money aristocracy of the East Egg. Nick Carraway, the narrator, serves as the moral compass of the novel, and his perspective influences the reader’s perception of the events and characters. The intricate dynamics between these characters offer a wide range of The Great Gatsby research paper topics related to character analysis, motivations, and the interplay between them.

Fitzgerald composed The Great Gatsby during a period of significant social and cultural transformation. The Roaring Twenties was marked by unprecedented economic growth, technological advancements, and a relaxation of social norms. However, it was also a time of great disparity, with a significant divide between the rich and the poor. Fitzgerald’s novel critiques this era, highlighting the superficiality and emptiness that often lurked beneath the surface glamour. This historical context provides a backdrop for numerous The Great Gatsby research paper topics related to the cultural, social, and economic forces at play during this time.

In conclusion, The Great Gatsby offers a vast array of research paper topics for students and researchers. Whether one is interested in exploring themes of the American Dream and social stratification, analyzing the complex characters and their relationships, or examining the historical and cultural context of the novel, there are numerous angles to approach this literary masterpiece. The novel’s enduring relevance and appeal make it a rich source of inspiration for The Great Gatsby research paper topics that delve into the many layers of this iconic work.

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Topics for the great gatsby argumentative essay, dr. wilson mn.

August 1, 2022
Essay Topics and Ideas , Samples

When it comes to writing an argumentative essay , there are a lot of topics to choose from. However, if you’re looking for something on The Great Gatsby you might want to consider writing about one of the following Topics for The Great Gatsby Argumentative Essay

What You'll Learn

Possible Topics for The Great Gatsby Argumentative Essay

Is Nick a reliable or trustworthy narrator? How does his point of view affect the story?

Is the story of The Great Gatsby believable? Why or why not?

Where is the climax of the story? Explain your choice.

Are the characters in The Great Gatsby stereotypes? If so, explain why Fitzgerald used stereotypes in the novel. If not, explain what makes the characters individuals.

What is the most essential symbol in the novel? What does it represent?

Analyze Gatsby’s relationship with Daisy.

Are Gatsby’s actions believably motivated? Explain why or why not.

What makes F. Scott Fitzgerald’s writing style unique and/or effective?

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Compare and contrast various characters.

Explain how F. Scott Fitzgerald uses the minor characters–Owl Eyes, Mr. Wolfshiem, Pammy, Michaelis, and George Wilson–in the novel. What does each character add to the story?

Explain how the title, The Great Gatsby, is appropriate.

Why do Daisy and Tom stay together?

What does it mean to be wealthy? Do responsibilities come with money?

Does Gatsby’s money bring him happiness?

Interpret one of the novel’s key symbols (the green light, the eyes of Dr. T. J. Eckleburg, the valley of ashes, etc.).

Suppose this novel had been written from Gatsby’s (or another’s) point of view. How would the story have changed?

Read a sample The Great Gatsby 46 Essay

Analyze each of the novel’s locations (West Egg, East Egg, the Valley of Ashes, and New York City), and explain how each corresponds to the social position, lifestyle, and personality of its residents.

What traits does Nick find admirable about Gatsby? What traits does he dislike?

Is The Great Gatsby an outdated novel, or is it relevant today? If it is relevant, what specific elements of current society does the book describe or explain?

What motivates Daisy, Myrtle, and Jordan? Is there a common thread?

Surprisingly, Tom Buchanan and George Wilson are actually similar in many ways. Be sure to focus on their attitudes toward women, their approach to violence, and their reactions to being cheated on.

How does Fitzgerald use weather in the novel?

How does the state of the current financial markets resemble the economic problems of the 1920s? How does Fitzgerald highlight and predict those problems?

Which characters are static and which are dynamic? Why did Fitzgerald choose to portray them this way?

In the final chapter, Nick describes Tom and Daisy as “careless people.” Are they? Are they each careless in their own way?

Explore ONE of the following themes: alienation, friendship, identity, the American Dream, materialism, corruption, fate, the past, love, hope, etc.

Additionally, feel free to explore your own topic regarding the novel. If you do so, please discuss the topic with me so I can help you verify that it is practical, as well as help you brainstorm how to proceed.

Read more on 5 Tips for a perfect Discussion Post (How to Write a Discussion Post)

Argumentative Essay Topics For The Great Gatsby

How The Novel “The Great Gatsby”, Examine Complex Ideas about Identity, others and The World

Essay Prompts: The Great Gatsby that was published in the year 1925 has been rated as one of the best fiction stories about American during its time. The Great Gatsby was written by one of the celebrated American Authors called F. Scott Fitzgerald.

A Comparison and Contrast of Tom and Gatsby

Essay prompts: Compare and contrast Gatsby and tom. how are they alike? how are they different? given the extremely negative light in which tom is portrayed throughout the novel, why might daisy choose to remain with him instead of leaving him for Gatsby?

Nick or Gates?

Essay prompts: The question pertains to The Great Gatsby story and actually it is more of Nick because he lists down all the attendees of the party that summer. The list includes all of the powerful and rich people in the nation.

Comparison of The Characters of Hamlet and Jay Gatsby

Essay prompts: Hamlet is the main character in the play “Hamlet,” the son of King Hamlet and Gertrude. He was brought up in the palace and his family was wealthy. Jay Gatsby, who is the main protagonist in the novel “The Great Gatsby” is different from Hamlet because he came from a humble background.

When it comes to writing an argumentative essay, there are a lot of topics to choose from. However, if you’re looking for something on The Great Gatsby you might want to consider writing about one of the following Topics for The Great Gatsby Argumentative Essay

The Great Gatsby and The American Dream

Essay prompts: The American dream is essentially dishonest in the Great Gatsby, where Gatsby rises from humble beginnings to be a wealthy man through dubious means. When compared to the ‘old money’ people like Tom Buchanan, who did not flaunt their wealth Gatsby, wanted recognition.

An Analysis Of Gatsby Based On Color Green

Essay prompts: The following analysis will focus on Gatsby as a character from the novel and the analysis will be based on color green.

You can also check out 150+ Top-Notch Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas

Write an Essay analyzing a character from The Great Gatsby, based on one of The colors associated with that character.

The Imagery of a Passage in Great Gatsby

Essay prompts: Scott Fitzgerald writes the book titled The Great Gatsby. It Is appropriate to conclude that Fitzgerald conveys both good and sinister qualities of Gatsby in the passage.

The Role of Women in The Great Gatsby

Essay prompts: The Great Gatsby is novel composed by Scott Fitzgerald around 1922 in New York. It is a love story, loss and scandal during the social unrest.

The Impact Of The Social Context In Great Gatsby And Elizabeth Barrett Brownings Sonnets

Comparative Themes of Eiger Dreams and The Great Gatsby

Essay prompts: Eiger Dreams is a non-fiction book written from a collection of articles and essays based on rock climbing and mountaineering. It takes place in two different locations. One is the Swiss Alps, the other location is in Alaska (Krakauer, 2012).

The Great Gatsby: The Corrupt Nature of The American Dream

Essay prompts: The focus of this paper is on the nature of the American dream as depicted by Fitzgerald. Therefore, the withering of the American dream is the central thesis of this paper

The American Dream as portrayed in The Great Gatsby by Fitzgerald

Essay prompts: Fitzgerald has illustrated American dream by use of several characters to show how elusive the dream has been to some people whilst others are already living it.

How Trauma is Represented in Fitzgerald’s Work “The Great Gatsby”

Essay prompts: Trauma is a motif in The Great Gatsby, a novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald published in 1925. The novel narrates the tragic story of Jay Gatsby, who happens to be a millionaire in pursuit of the love of his youth, Daisy, which he lost while serving in the army.

Find out more on How to Write a Narrative Essay

Best essay topics for the great gatsby

Social Constructs of The American Society on The Narrative “The Great Gatsby”

Essay prompts: The Great Gatsby is a narration about an individual struggling to create an identity for himself that will elevate his status to that of a wealthy man of stature and hence realizing his American dream that takes the form of a woman he so desires to marry.

Analysis of “The Great Gatsby”

Essay prompts: This is just one among many such examples that unravels how a man’s wealth would affect his relationship and social relations as a major theme throughout Fitzgerald’s novel, “The Great Gatsby”.

How would a man’s wealth affect his relationship and social relation?

Franklin’s Almanac: The Way to Wealth vs. The Great Gatsby

Essay prompts: The American dream is the notion that one can be anything they wish to be in the United States. Chance and opportunity are there for the taking, but these are limited to those willing to work hard, and set forth for what they believe.

Similarities between “The Great Gatsby” and The “Generation Wealth”

Essay prompts: We are going to discuss the similarities between “The Great Gatsby” and the film, “Generation Wealth”, while at the same time elucidating on the main theme of money.

Analysis of Fitzgerald use of language and symbolism in Gatsby

Essay prompts: The inability to win Daisy’s love undermines Gatsby’s success. That is why Fitzgerald’s writing language uses irony in explaining how impossible it was for Gatsby to achieve his dream.

Find out more on Argumentative Essay Topics About Social Media [Updated]

Great Gatsby essay prompts

Masculinity in The Great Gatsby Novel

Essay prompts: Undergraduate Essay: Masculinity in The Great Gatsby Novel…

Gatsby Does Not Truly Love Daisy:

A Misunderstanding Of The American Dream Leads To The Tragedy Of Love

Essay prompts: The American Dream refers to the belief that everybody, disregarding their social class or birthplace, can achieve the success they dream of when living in a society that promotes upward mobility for everyone.

War Trauma in The Great Gatsby

Essay prompts: The casualties of war are not only those who fall on the battlefield but even those that walk away dead from the inside. In the Great Gatsby, the effects of war are felt through Jay Gatsby, who comes back from a different man. His war trauma is worsened by losing his love while he was at war.

The American Dream in The Great Gatsby and The House on Mango Street

Essay prompts: This paper will give invaluable insights concerning how the American Dream as an ideology has been presented in the Great Gatsby and The House on Mango Street.

Great Gatsby Quotes About Money Can’t Buy Happiness

Essay prompts: He quote money can’t buy you happiness is never truer than when viewed through the storylines of The Great Gatsby and Wolf of Wall Street. This conflicts with the notion that living the American dream translates to happiness.

How Manifestation and Materialism are Related to The American Dream

Essay prompts: This article seeks to draw on real-life examples as well as textual evidence to showcase how the American dream is closely associated with manifestation and materialism….

The Great Gatsby vs The Godfather

Love in Th Great Gatsby

Essay prompts: The idealized conception of love is one in which individuals are committed and faithful to each other unconditionally.

The Symbolism of Time in The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Essay prompts: Time is of the essence, and it waits for no man. Therefore, humans should concentrate their minds on the present and neither dwell on the past nor dream about the future. In Great Gatsby, Fitzgerald explores the roaring twenties and their American dream. In this novel, the main character, Jay Gatsby.

Representations And Discourses Of The American Dream In Film

Essay prompts: The “American Dream” means that as long as the person starts working hard and follow their dream, thus it can lead to a better life. Equal opportunity is the soul of the “American Dream.”

Symbolism in The Great Gatsby and its significance in modern society

Essay prompts: F. Scott Fitzgerald’s story, “The Great Gatsby,” has used symbolism depicting the city where the story is set. Further, the author has also used symbolism in representing individuals characters and Gatsby’s problems, among others.

The Futility Of Human Dreams: Independence

Essay prompts: The author successfully manages to show how we can dream in vain by demonstrating from the characters. George and Lennie dream of a better life full of freedom and independence.

Representation And Discourses Of The American Dream In Film

Essay prompts: The American Dream can be achieved by individuals who exercise hard work, independence, courage, determination, creativity, and diligence.

“Winter Dreams” and “The Great Gatsby” mirror into S Fitzgerald’s life

Essay prompts: These two novels have been widely read, and The Great Gatsby was even adopted into a movie. Often, people say that the story Winter Dreams was merely a draft for The Great Gatsby. The two are very similar and encompass similar themes.

If you're looking for something on the great gatsby, here are possible topics for the great gatsby argumentative essay

Comparison Between East Egg and West Egg

Essay prompts: The novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald is narrated by Nick Carraway, one of the main protagonists in the book. Nick lives in West Egg, a new village in New York with upcoming millionaires and billionaires.

Analysis Of Movies That Portray The American Dream

Essay prompts: The paper aims at discussing the American Dream by analyzing films that portray the accomplishment of the dream as well as the factors that make it difficult for individuals to achieve their version of the American Dream.

Representation and Discourses of The American Dream in Film

Essay prompts: This paper aims at conferring the American Dream by analyzing films which portray the accomplishment of the dream as well as the factors that make it difficult for individuals to achieve their version of the American Dream.

Why Economies Succeed or Fail during The Great Depression

Essay prompts: The Great Depression was an austere worldwide financial depression in the 1930s, starting in the United States. One major cause of the Great Depression was the ensuing global crisis. Europe had not settled after the First World War and faced severe consequences.

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The Great Gatsby: Essay Topics & Samples

No novel is written for the sake of writing. You can be immersed in the plot and feel sympathy toward the protagonists, but there is something more about every great book. A good The Great Gatsby essay should question the narrative to determine what the text’s broader purpose is.

Are you out of ideas? Our topics and The Great Gatsby writing prompts can kickstart your creative process. They won’t limit the flight of your thought in any way: instead, they’ll show you the right direction to follow. You can also use our essay samples for inspiration or apply for professional writing help .

💡 Essay Topics
✒️ Essay Samples

💡 The Great Gatsby Essay Topics & Prompts

Did Daisy genuinely love Gatsby, or did she want to return the past feelings? Why was preserving her social class so important? Or did she stay with Tom for other reasons, like the shared experience, stability, and the daughter? Do you think Daisy opted for Tom after a careful comparison?
Old and New Money in The Great Gatsby. What did Gatsby lack to feel like he belongs to the Old Money, apart from heritage? What did elevate him above the Old Money representatives and make him more humane? Why didn’t he possess the traits related to the corruption of the upper class?
Money and wealth in The Great Gatsby . Money is helpless in matters of love and friendship. Nick Carraway was Gatsby’s only friend. As far as we know, only Daisy loved him, and even this fact is doubtful. Was it the reason why Gatsby’s success did not make him happy? Write an argumentative essay about it!
Compare and contrast The Great Gatsby 2013 movie vs. the book in an essay. Does the movie represent the characters as profoundly as the book does? Make the book review from the point of view of a person who watched the film first. What are the strengths and weaknesses of the film?
How does Gatsby represent the American Dream ? This essay should start with the historical background that formed the general idea of the American Dream. Is Gatsby’s version of the American Dream universal for all US citizens, or does it have any unique features? “The American Dream in The Great Gatsby ” is a perfect title for this kind of essay.
Is Gatsby great? This essay can discuss the strengths and failures of Jay Gatsby. It could also reveal why the novel is titled like this. Is Gatsby great because he has made a fortune without any heritage, or is the title ironic?
The Great Gatsby symbolism is a good topic for an essay. It could cover the setting of the novel, the color symbolism in The Great Gatsby (especially the green light , gold, and the color white,) and the small symbolic details like bespectacled eyes of various protagonists and TJ Eckleburg on the billboard.
Write The Great Gatsby literary analysis essay , exploring why the author chose these specific characters to convey the main idea to the reader. What is the primary purpose of the novel, and what helped the author to achieve it? Dwell upon the decline of morality as the typical feature of the Roaring Twenties.
Time in The Great Gatsby . Throughout the entire novel, Gatsby is trying to recapture his past feelings. Did he succeed, to some extent? Can living in the memories, even recreated in real life, make someone happy? The novel is full of flashbacks. Explain why the time is non-linear in the story .
The Great Gatsby themes might also be a great as an essay topic. The novel is multifaceted and profound, with several layers of meaning. Money and wealth, society and class, love and marriage , hope, morality, time, and the American Dream in The Great Gatsby are to be discussed in this essay.

✒️ The Great Gatsby: Essay Examples

Below you’ll find a collection of The Great Gatsby essay examples. Use them for inspiration!

Color Symbolism in The Great Gatsby
Symbolism in The Great Gatsby
Masculinity in The Great Gatsby and The Breakfast Club
Imagery in The Great Gatsby by F. Fitzgerald
Conception of The American Dream
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F. Scott Fitzgerald wrote The Great Gatsby as a satire of society. Why did the novel appear in the given historical period? Why are there no positive characters in the book? What does it take to fulfill the American dream? The Great Gatsby Study Guide answers these and many other...

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The Power of Ethos in Literary Works: Persuasion and Credibility

This essay about the influence of ethos in literary works highlights how authors use credibility and ethical appeal to shape persuasion and trust. Through examples like Nick Carraway in “The Great Gatsby” and Atticus Finch in “To Kill a Mockingbird,” it explains how reliable narrators and characters establish trust. It also discusses the role of the author’s reputation and ethical themes in enhancing a narrative’s persuasiveness and impact.

How it works

The influence of ethos in literary works is a potent force, deeply affecting persuasion and credibility. Ethos, one of Aristotle’s three modes of persuasion, centers around the character and credibility of the author or speaker. In literature, ethos is reflected through the authority, trustworthiness, and ethical appeal of the narrative voice or characters, significantly shaping the audience’s perception and interpretation of the text.

Ethos in literature plays an essential role by establishing a bond between the author and the reader, fostering trust and a sense of reliability.

This trust is vital in persuading the audience to accept the themes, messages, and arguments presented within a literary work. Ethos operates on various levels in literature, from the narrative voice and character development to the broader context of the author’s reputation and societal standing.

The narrative voice is a primary conduit for ethos in literary works. A narrator’s reliability, honesty, and moral character profoundly impact how the story is received. For instance, in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby,” the narrator, Nick Carraway, is portrayed as a trustworthy and objective observer. Nick’s credibility enables readers to navigate the morally ambiguous world of Jay Gatsby and the Jazz Age with confidence in his account. Fitzgerald carefully constructs Nick’s character as an ethical and reliable narrator, whose observations and judgments are considered credible by the audience. This use of ethos amplifies the persuasiveness of the novel’s critique of the American Dream and societal moral decay.

In a similar vein, in Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird,” the character of Atticus Finch embodies ethos. As a lawyer and father, Atticus is depicted as a paragon of virtue, integrity, and wisdom. His ethical stance and moral courage in defending Tom Robinson, an African American falsely accused of raping a white woman, establish his credibility and authority. Atticus’s ethos not only persuades other characters within the narrative but also profoundly influences readers’ understanding of justice, racism, and morality. His character serves as a moral compass, guiding the audience through the complex social issues presented in the novel.

Authors also establish ethos through their own reputation and societal standing. The author’s background, expertise, and previous works contribute to the credibility of their current literary endeavors. For example, George Orwell’s experiences as a journalist and his critical perspectives on totalitarianism lend significant ethos to his dystopian novel “1984.” Orwell’s authoritative voice and firsthand knowledge of political oppression enhance the novel’s persuasive power and credibility. Readers are more inclined to accept the grim realities depicted in “1984” due to Orwell’s established ethos as a commentator on social and political issues.

Ethos in literature is not limited to individual characters or narrators but extends to the broader themes and ethical considerations within a work. Literary texts often engage with ethical dilemmas and moral questions, inviting readers to reflect on their own values and beliefs. By presenting characters and situations that resonate with universal ethical principles, authors persuade readers to engage with the text on a deeper level.

William Shakespeare’s plays frequently explore the complexities of human morality and ethical decision-making. In “Hamlet,” the eponymous character grapples with questions of justice, revenge, and moral integrity. Hamlet’s introspective soliloquies and ethical dilemmas invite the audience to consider the nature of right and wrong. Shakespeare’s nuanced portrayal of Hamlet’s internal struggle establishes a strong ethos, compelling the audience to empathize with the character’s moral quandaries and consider broader ethical implications.

Ethos also plays a crucial role in non-fiction literary works, where the author’s credibility is paramount. In memoirs, autobiographies, and essays, the author’s personal experiences and ethical stance directly influence the audience’s perception of the text. For instance, in “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings,” Maya Angelou’s powerful narrative voice and honest recounting of her life experiences establish a profound ethos. Angelou’s credibility as a writer and her candid exploration of themes such as racism, trauma, and identity engage readers on an intimate and persuasive level.

In persuasive essays and rhetorical works, ethos is a foundational element that enhances the author’s argument. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “Letter from Birmingham Jail” exemplifies the power of ethos in persuasive writing. King’s authority as a civil rights leader, coupled with his articulate and morally grounded arguments, establishes a compelling ethos. His credibility and ethical appeal persuade readers to consider the justice of his cause and the urgency of civil rights issues. The letter’s persuasive power is rooted in King’s ethos, as he effectively combines personal integrity with logical and emotional appeals.

Moreover, ethos in literature extends beyond the text itself to encompass the broader cultural and historical context. The societal values and norms of a particular time period influence the reception and interpretation of literary works. Authors who align their narratives with prevailing ethical standards or challenge societal norms can significantly impact their audience’s perception.

In summary, the influence of ethos in literary works is multifaceted and crucial in shaping persuasion and credibility. Through the narrative voice, character development, authorial reputation, and engagement with ethical themes, literature employs ethos to establish trust and authority. This trust, in turn, enhances the persuasiveness of the narrative, allowing readers to connect with the text on a deeper level. Whether through the reliability of a narrator, the moral integrity of a character, or the credibility of an author, ethos remains a central element in the art of literary persuasion. As readers, we are continually influenced by the ethical appeals woven into the fabric of literary works, guiding our understanding of the world and our place within it.

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88 Perfect Essay Topics on The Great Gatsby
Welcome to The Great Gatsby Essay Topics page prepared by our editorial team! Here you'll find a large collection of essay ideas on the novel! Literary analysis, themes, characters, & more. Get inspired to write your own paper! We will write a custom essay specifically. for you for only 11.00 9.35/page.
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144 The Great Gatsby Essay Topics. Let's travel to the roaring 1920s with our collection of The Great Gatsby essay prompts! F. Scott Fitzgerald's iconic novel, set amidst the luxury and decadence of the Jazz Age, thrills readers with its exploration of love, wealth, and the elusive pursuit of the American Dream.
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The Great Gatsby themes might also be a great as an essay topic. The novel is multifaceted and profound, with several layers of meaning. Money and wealth, society and class, love and marriage, hope, morality, time, and the American Dream in The Great Gatsby are to be discussed in this essay. ️ The Great Gatsby: Essay Examples
The Power of Ethos in Literary Works: Persuasion and Credibility
This essay about the influence of ethos in literary works highlights how authors use credibility and ethical appeal to shape persuasion and trust. Through examples like Nick Carraway in "The Great Gatsby" and Atticus Finch in "To Kill a Mockingbird," it explains how reliable narrators and characters establish trust.

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