Gatsby_Ch. 1&2_Vocab

Front

What does the term 'waves' refer to in the context of water movement?

Back

Waves are disturbances that transfer energy through water, creating ripples or larger movements on the surface.

Front

Define 'grotesque' as used in literature.

Back

Grotesque refers to something that is comically or repulsively ugly or distorted, often evoking both laughter and disgust.

Front

What is the meaning of 'libel' in a legal context?

Back

Libel is a published false statement that is damaging to a person's reputation; a written defamation.

Front

Explain the term 'effeminate' in relation to gender expression.

Back

Effeminate describes a man who exhibits traits traditionally associated with women, such as softness or delicacy.

Front

What does 'strident' mean when describing a sound?

Back

Strident refers to a loud, harsh, and grating sound that is often unpleasant to hear.

Front

What is the significance of 'valley of ashes' in The Great Gatsby?

Back

The 'valley of ashes' symbolizes moral and social decay resulting from the uninhibited pursuit of wealth, contrasting with the opulence of the characters' lives.

Front

How does the imagery of 'ashes' contribute to the themes in The Great Gatsby?

Back

The imagery of ashes represents the remnants of a once-vibrant society, highlighting themes of decay, loss, and the emptiness of the American Dream.

Front

What does the phrase 'laden mattress' suggest in a literary context?

Back

A 'laden mattress' suggests heaviness and burden, possibly symbolizing emotional weight or the consequences of one's actions.

Front

Define 'cynical' in terms of attitude or outlook.

Back

Cynical refers to an attitude of distrust or disbelief in the sincerity or goodness of human motives and actions.

Front

What is the role of symbolism in The Great Gatsby?

Back

Symbolism in The Great Gatsby serves to deepen the narrative, conveying complex themes such as the American Dream, class struggle, and moral decay.