Section 2: Section Diagnostic

Use your notes and materials from the previous lessons to respond to questions about Fitzgerald’s use of contrasting elements, imagery, and symbolism in developing themes. Build your response from an interpretive claim, using academic language related to literary analysis and keeping the following question in mind:

1. How does Fitzgerald use description, contrast, imagery, and symbolism to develop scenes, characters, and themes in The Great Gatsby?

Write a one-paragraph analysis in response to one or both of the following questions about the use of contrasting scenes or characters and about how literary devices are used to develop themes in Chapters 2–4 of The Great Gatsby:

1. How does Fitzgerald describe and contrast characters, settings, and scenes in Chapters 2–4? Analyze a set of contrasting characters or settings and scenes to explain the impact on your reading and your understanding of the novel.

2. How does Fitzgerald use description, imagery, and symbolism in a scene from Chapters 2–4 to develop a theme of the novel? Analyze a specific scene and explain how literary devices are used by the author to develop a key theme.

For each question you choose to answer, be sure to do the following:

• Respond to the specific issues framed by the question.

• Form a central claim in response to the question.

• Gather and organize relevant and strong evidence from Chapters 2–4.

• Organize your analysis into a well-developed paragraph.

• Integrate specific references and quotations.

• Use academic language and demonstrate your understanding of literary elements, devices, and terminology.

• Demonstrate a clear understanding of the first four chapters of the novel and the author’s choices in developing them.

• Use appropriate syntax, grammar, and mechanics.