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Readers of The Great Gatsby are greatly influenced by the narrator, Nick Carraway - Leaving Cert English - Question B - 2013
Question B
Readers of The Great Gatsby are greatly influenced by the narrator, Nick Carraway. Discuss this statement, supporting your answer with suitable reference to the text... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Readers of The Great Gatsby are greatly influenced by the narrator, Nick Carraway - Leaving Cert English - Question B - 2013
Step 1
Discuss the statement: "Readers of The Great Gatsby are greatly influenced by the narrator, Nick Carraway."
Answer
To examine the influence of Nick Carraway on the readers of The Great Gatsby, one must consider his narrative role and the reliability of his perspective. Nick serves as the lens through which we understand the complexities of the characters, particularly Gatsby himself.
Firstly, Nick’s measured judgments of Gatsby highlight the intricacies of the character, allowing readers to develop a deeper connection. His admiration juxtaposed with skepticism provides a rich emotional texture, influencing reader reactions towards Gatsby's grand aspirations and tragic flaws.
Secondly, Nick’s subjective influence must also be scrutinized. As he often filters events through his personal biases, this prompts readers to question whether they are receiving an objective portrayal of the world around Gatsby. For instance, his depiction of the lavish parties can create an alluring image while simultaneously revealing the disillusionment of the Jazz Age.
Lastly, Nick’s narrative voice controls the perspective throughout the novel. Through his unique style, marked by introspective hypostatizing and imaginative reflections, he shapes our understanding of the American Dream as represented by Gatsby's story. This intricate interplay between narrator and audience culminates in a reading experience that is both captivating and reflective.
Step 2
Discuss the view: "Readers often find aspects of The Great Gatsby attractive but ultimately the world of the novel is not admirable."
Answer
In response to the view regarding the attractions versus the shortcomings of the world depicted in The Great Gatsby, one must delve into specific characteristics and themes that frame this dichotomy.
One of the most attractive aspects of the novel is Jay Gatsby himself, who embodies the ultimate romantic and delusional dreamer. His grand parties and relentless pursuit of love unveil a captivating world of wealth and idealism, drawing readers into his lush lifestyle. However, this glamour is gradually undercut by the realization of the moral wasteland that lies beneath the surface.
Additionally, the initial glow of the American Dream as represented through Gatsby's character becomes increasingly tarnished when juxtaposed with the shallowness and materialism of the other characters. As the novel progresses, the façade of high society reveals itself as hollow and ultimately tragic. Readers become aware of the tensions between this dream and the stark realities of betrayal and moral decay.
In conclusion, while there are undeniably attractive elements within The Great Gatsby, the world crafted by Fitzgerald ultimately reveals itself as a cautionary tale about the illusion of the American Dream, prompting readers to contemplate the ethical implications of such aspirations.