Lecture Notes: The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald - Chapter Six

Introduction

• A young ambitious reporter arrives at Gatsby's door, asking if he has anything to say.
• Gatsby's name has become popular in the reporter's office, linked with some mysterious connection.
• Despite being a random inquiry, the reporter's instinct about Gatsby's notoriety was accurate.

Gatsby's Increasing Notoriety

• Gatsby's notoriety grew over the summer due to the many legends about him.
• Rumors include an underground pipeline to Canada and a story about him living in a house-boat.

Jay Gatsby's Origin

• Originally named James Gatz from North Dakota.
• Changed name at age 17 when he saw Dan Cody's yacht on Lake Superior.
• His parents were unsuccessful farmers. Gatsby viewed himself as self-created, a son of God.

Gatsby's Early Life

• Worked as a clam digger and salmon fisher around Lake Superior.
• Developed a contempt for women due to early experiences.
• Had a vivid imagination and dreams of grandeur.
• Briefly attended a Lutheran college but left disillusioned.

Encounter with Dan Cody

• Dan Cody, a wealthy man, became Gatsby's mentor.
• Gatsby worked on Cody's yacht in various capacities.
• The relationship lasted five years and shaped Gatsby's character.
• Gatsby inherited $25,000 from Cody, but it was taken by Ella K through legal means.

Post-Cody Life

• Gatsby gained a "singularly appropriate education" through his time with Cody.
• The vague rumors about Gatsby's past were mostly untrue.

Tom Buchanan's Visit

• Gatsby encounters Tom Buchanan unexpectedly at his house.
• Gatsby is eager to impress Tom and offers hospitality.
• Tom views Gatsby's lifestyle and parties with disdain.

Gatsby's Party with Daisy and Tom

• Tom and Daisy attend one of Gatsby's parties, which has an oppressive air.
• Daisy does not enjoy the party, contrasting with her previous excitement.
• Tom is suspicious of Gatsby's wealth and lifestyle.

Gatsby's Dream

• Gatsby's primary desire is for Daisy to reject Tom and marry him.
• He hopes to return to the past and restore his relationship with Daisy.
• Gatsby's idealism is highlighted through his past memories with Daisy.

Conclusion

• Gatsby's vision is tied to a past moment with Daisy, symbolizing his romantic idealism.
• The chapter explores themes of identity, ambition, and the illusion of the American Dream.

Final Thoughts

• The chapter reveals more about Gatsby's background and his unwavering pursuit of an idealized past.
• The narrative hints at the futility of recapturing the past and the consequences of Gatsby's dreams.