1. The features of “the Jazz-Age” as reflected in the novel. Draw parallels between the novel, the life in America during the decades of the 1920-30s and Fitzgerald's life.
2. In what sense is “The Great Gatsby” an autobiographical novel? Does Fitzgerald write more of himself into the character of Nick or the character of Gatsby, or are the author's qualities found in both characters?
3. ”The American dream” as reflected in the novel. What is the American dream? Does it mean the same thing for different characters in the book?
4. Nick Carraway and his evolution throughout the novel. His view of Gatsby (a conflict of admiration and distaste) and of the other characters.
5. Compare and contrast Jay Gatsby and Tom Buchanan, comment on the conflict of moral values and the conflict of "old" and "new" money.
6. Which characters represent “the lost generation” in the novel? What are their inherent features?
7. Compare and contrast the female characters of the novel: Daisy Buchanan, Myrtle Wilson, Jordan Baker.
8. Daisy as one of the leading characters and her role in Gatsby’s life.
9. Jay Gatsby: his social background and the formation of his ideals and values.
10. Gatsby’s greatness as you see it, the essence of Gatsby’s drama and tragedy. Why does the title of the novel - "The Great Gatsby” – sound ironic?
11. What are some of the novel's most important symbols and metaphors? (green light, Dr. Eckleburg’s eyes, the valley of ashes, the pearl necklace, bad driving, etc.)
12. What role does setting play in “The Great Gatsby”? (the geographical locations, the weather, the seasons).