F. Scott Fitzgerald

1. F. Scott Fitzgerald The Great Gatsby

2. About the Author • Writing reflects dreams and insecurities he experienced in his own life. • Grew up in a country-club setting in Minnesota • -embarrassed by his mother’s immigrant background and father’s career failures. -Attended Princeton, never graduated, joined the army and fell in love with Zelda.

3. About the Author (cont’d) • All about $$$: Zelda would not marry Fitzgerald because he could not support her. • Finally married after success of first novel, lived a glamorous lifestyle, but it did not last for long (1920-1930). • Zelda suffered mental collapse in 1930, and Fitzgerald was drinking heavily.

4. About the Novel • Written in early 20s while Fitzgerald/Zelda lived in Great Neck, Long Island. • Setting of the novel was modeled after his own surroundings and lifestyle. • Major Characters: -Nick Carraway- narrator, moves to West Egg to a home that is next door to a mysterious rich man (Gatsby) -Gatsby- acquired wealth in questionable way, throws huge parties hoping his love will return

5. Major Characters (cont’d): • -Daisy- had the long of the young and poor Gatsby, lives across the water from Gatsby with her wealthy husband (Tom Buchanan).

6. Why is this still studied? • The book paints a picture of our world, the American world, with clearer eyes than anything ever before. • Accurately depicts time period • Soap opera • Major/minor themes are still relevant today American Dream -to most this is money, but Gatsby conveys that something other than wealth matters…