Choose a novel or film or play that you have studied and explain two things that you found interesting about the world your chosen text was set in - Junior Cycle English - Question 11 - 2022

One interesting aspect of the world depicted in 'The Great Gatsby' is the stark contrast between the opulence of the East Egg and the desolation of the Valley of Ashes. The East Egg represents the wealth and glamour of the upper class, while the Valley of Ashes symbolizes the moral decay and social inequality present in the society of the 1920s. This contrast highlights the superficial nature of the American Dream and critiques the era's materialism.

Another fascinating element is the role of the party culture in the novel. Gatsby's extravagant parties serve as a microcosm of the Jazz Age, attracting a diverse crowd that revels in excess yet remains emotionally disconnected. These gatherings illustrate the emptiness of wealth and the quest for belonging, as many attendees are more interested in the spectacle rather than genuine relationships. This theme underscores the disillusionment with the American Dream during that period.