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1. (a) Describe an occasion from the text when you think Tom Buchanan behaves badly towards Myrtle - Leaving Cert English - Question 1 - 2018
Question 1
1. (a) Describe an occasion from the text when you think Tom Buchanan behaves badly towards Myrtle. (b) In your opinion, does Tom generally behave badly towards M... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:1. (a) Describe an occasion from the text when you think Tom Buchanan behaves badly towards Myrtle - Leaving Cert English - Question 1 - 2018
Step 1
Describe an occasion from the text when you think Tom Buchanan behaves badly towards Myrtle.
Answer
In F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby, a notable occasion when Tom Buchanan behaves badly towards Myrtle occurs during their meeting on the train. During this encounter, Tom displays aggression by breaking Myrtle's nose in a fit of rage after she repeatedly mentions Daisy's name. This violent act vividly illustrates Tom's domineering character and his utter lack of respect for Myrtle. His physical aggression serves as a potent symbol of the power dynamics in their relationship, thereby mirroring his broader treatment of women.
Step 2
In your opinion, does Tom generally behave badly towards Myrtle? Explain your answer with reference to the text.
Answer
In my opinion, Tom generally behaves badly towards Myrtle throughout The Great Gatsby. Tom treats Myrtle as an object of desire rather than as a person with her own feelings and identity. For example, even when he is with Myrtle in the city, he shows little genuine emotional connection and often reduces her to mere physical pleasure. His tendency to ignore her feelings and thoughts, coupled with his patronizing attitude, epitomizes his overall disrespectful behavior. This dynamic is evident in the way Tom dismisses her longing for a more stable and meaningful relationship.
Step 3
Identify a moment in the novel, The Great Gatsby, which you find particularly dramatic or exciting. Explain what makes this moment so dramatic or exciting.
Answer
One particularly dramatic moment in The Great Gatsby is Gatsby's confrontation with Tom Buchanan at the Plaza Hotel. The tension escalates as Gatsby attempts to assert his love for Daisy in the presence of Tom. This conflict reveals underlying themes of jealousy, power, and the fragility of the American Dream. The climactic showdown culminates in a heated exchange, with Gatsby demanding that Daisy tell Tom she never loved him. The emotional stakes are incredibly high, as both characters reveal their true selves, making this moment a turning point in the narrative.
Step 4
The use of contrasting settings can make a text more interesting. Identify two contrasting settings in The Great Gatsby and explain why the use of these contrasting settings makes the novel more interesting. Support your answer with reference to the text.
Answer
Two contrasting settings in The Great Gatsby are East Egg and West Egg. East Egg represents old money, characterized by sophistication and social prestige, exemplified by Tom and Daisy Buchanan's lavish lifestyle. In contrast, West Egg symbolizes new money and the pursuit of the American Dream, primarily represented by Gatsby's opulent parties. This juxtaposition highlights the societal divide between classes and the inherent struggles each group faces. The contrast amplifies the novel's exploration of themes such as wealth, status, and the elusive nature of the American Dream.
Step 5
From the list below, choose the phrase or phrases that best describe(s) your overall response to the novel, The Great Gatsby: I found the novel entertaining / I found the novel disturbing / I found the novel boring. Explain your response, giving reasons that demonstrate your knowledge of the text.
Answer
I found the novel disturbing. The exploration of themes such as moral decay, the hollowness of the American Dream, and the treatment of women creates a powerful narrative that lingers with the reader. Tom Buchanan's abusive behavior towards Myrtle and the ultimate tragedy of Gatsby's aspirations illustrate the darker aspects of society. This stark portrayal of the Jazz Age forces the reader to confront uncomfortable truths about ambition and morality.
Step 6
You have been asked to show your class three objects that you think help to reveal something about the life or personality of one of the following characters from the novel, The Great Gatsby: Jay Gatsby or Daisy Buchanan. Explain what you think each of the three objects you have chosen reveals about the character you have selected.
Answer
For Jay Gatsby, I would choose the following three objects:
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The Green Light: This iconic symbol represents Gatsby's unattainable dream and his relentless pursuit of Daisy. It signifies hope and ambition, yet also the futility of chasing after something that remains perpetually out of reach.
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The Yellow Car: Gatsby's luxurious yellow car symbolizes his wealth and status, but also serves as a catalyst for tragedy. The car is a reminder of the American Dream's superficial nature and the consequences of excess.
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The Photograph of Daisy: This keepsake reveals Gatsby's obsession and idealized love for Daisy. It serves as a physical representation of his past, illustrating how his memories of her shape his identity and motivations throughout the story.