2. Chapters 3-4 • Characterization • Gatsby: In chapter 1, Nick referred to Gatsby’s “extraordinary gift for hope.” This gift now inspires similar hope in Nick, but Gatsby’s charm dims with the absurd “old sport” affectation (artificial). • Gatsby’s biography is a strange mixture of truth and fiction, although Nick seems to buy it.

3. Chapters 3-4 • Jordan: Nick feels she has used deception most of her life; she fits right into Tom’s dishonest world. • Daisy: Through flashback, we learn about Daisy’s indecision to marry Tom. Wealth and proximity seemed to be his main attractions.

4. Chapters 3-4 • Style/Mood • Notice how chapter 2 ended with the party at the apartment; chapter 3 begins with party at Gatsby’s. • This is done to emphasize the contrasts between social classes. • Myrtle’s party is cramped, closed in; Gatsby’s is huge and formal.

5. Chapters 3-4 • Both feature heavy drinking and a superficial air of camaraderie; both end in physical damage. • Both reinforce the mood of false gaiety overlying potential tragedy.

6. Chapters 3-4 • Techniques • Flashback: Jordan recounts Daisy’s wedding. • Symbolism • Cars reflect status, with Nick’s old Dodge contrasting with Gatsby’s “gorgeous” car.

7. Chapters 3-4 • Symbolism: What’s in a name? • Daisy: startling beauty and superficial purity; white flower • Buchanan: power name, perfect for Tom • Myrtle: homely, plain, unworldly. • George = common; simple.

8. Chapters 3-4 • The party-goers • Whitebait, Hammerheads, Belugas: all sea-related names. Familiarity with the ocean and coast; implies wealth. All from East Egg • Orchid, Duckweed, Bull: plants and animals; of the earth; common. These men are from West Egg. • Catlip: “catty”; gossipy, insincere. The Catlips are from West Egg. • Belcher, Haag (pronounced “hag”); undesirable, substandard; also from West Egg.