The Great Gatsby - Chapter 1 Notes

Introduction

• Narrator reflects on advice from his father: avoid criticism as others may not have the same advantages.
• This leads to a habit of reserving judgment, attracting various characters confiding in him.
• Mention of Gatsby, who embodies hope and idealism.

Background of the Narrator

• Comes from a prominent Midwest family.
• Graduated from New Haven in 1915.
• Served in the Great War, returned restless.
• Moved East in 1922 to learn the bond business.
• Settles in West Egg, a less fashionable but affluent area near East Egg.

West Egg and East Egg

• Narrator rents a modest house in West Egg beside Gatsby’s mansion.
• Describes East Egg as more fashionable, across the bay from West Egg.

The Buchanan's

• Narrator visits Tom and Daisy Buchanan in East Egg.
  • Daisy: narrator’s cousin, charming yet cynical.
  • Tom: wealthy, physically imposing, has a harsh demeanor.
• Tom speaks about racist theories from a book he’s reading.

Dinner at Buchanan's

• Introduced to Jordan Baker, a golfer, and friend of Daisy.
• Tension during dinner due to a phone call from Tom's mistress.
• Daisy displays a mix of charm and vulnerability.

Themes of Sophistication and Cynicism

• Daisy expresses a cynical view on life and sophistication.
• Reflects societal attitudes and personal disillusionment.

Conclusion

• Nick drives home reflecting on the evening.
• Sees Gatsby for the first time, reaching out towards a green light on the bay.
• Sets the stage for the mysterious allure of Gatsby.

Important Characters Introduced

• Nick Carraway: Narrator, moved to West Egg to work in bonds.
• Daisy Buchanan: Nick's cousin, portrays charm and dissatisfaction.
• Tom Buchanan: Daisy's husband, wealthy and aggressive.
• Jordan Baker: Friend of Daisy, professional golfer.
• Jay Gatsby: Nick’s mysterious neighbor, represents hope.

Key Locations

• West Egg: Less fashionable, where Nick and Gatsby live.
• East Egg: More fashionable, home to the Buchanans.

Themes and Motifs

• Judgment and Tolerance: Advice from Nick's father influences his interactions.
• Wealth and Class: Distinctions between East and West Egg highlight societal divides.
• Hope and Dreams: Embodied by Gatsby's mysterious reach towards the green light.