Name:__________________________________________ Pd.:_____
The Great Gatsby Chapter 7 Breakdown
Goals for this activity:
1. Understand the symbolism used in the chapter and how it adds meaning to the text;
demonstrate that understanding within explanation.
2. Understand how the chapter serves as a turning point in the novel.
3. Acquire greater understanding of how Fitzgerald uses characterization (often hidden)
4. Notice the use of certain motifs and how they are used to add meaning.
5. Explain prompted answers adequately through use of the text as support.
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1. Trimalchio’s career is over – Trimalchio was a former slave who became wealthy through
shady means in Petronius’ The Satyricon. He would hold lavish feasts for the people in Rome.
The mansion is now a castle solely for Daisy.
a. What ominous signs are there at the beginning of this chapter?
b. Find a quote on page 121 to show that Gatsby’s dream is beginning to fall apart. Explain.
2. At the Buchanans’ house
Look at the description of Daisy and Jordan on page 122-123 as they wait in a darkened room.
Note the parallels between this scene and the scene in Chapter 1 when Nick goes to the
Buchanans’ for the first time.
a. Fill in the table below (there are some clues to help you):
Similarities to the scene in Chapter 1
Differences to the scene in Chapter 1
Telephone call:
Couch:
Garden:
Breeze:
Girls:
1
