Symbolism in the Great Gatsby

SYMBOLISM IN THE GREAT GATSBY

A symbol is a concrete object or an idea that has its own meaning but is used to suggest another. Match the following the following objects ideas with one of the symbolic explanations found below. Include one example from the novel to demonstrate your answer.

Valley of Ashes / Green Light / Eyes of Dr.T.J. Eckleburg / Automobile / East Egg / West Egg / Owl-Eyes / Gatsby’s gold tie and silver shirt

Object/Idea Symbolic Significance Example (Quote with MLA formating)

Wisdom; the ability to see beyond appearances.

Omniscient power, aware of everything. God is dead.

Poverty; barrenness; hopelessness.

Pretentious. Glittery, but really an imitation

Destruction and recklessness.

Wealth and material excess.

Fashionable, affluent. Old money and values.

Inviting false hope.