Exploring Chapter 2 of The Great Gatsby

Chapter 2 of The Great Gatsby describes the Valley of Ashes, a bleak area symbolizing the waste of capitalism. Tom Buchanan takes Nick Carraway to New York to meet his mistress, Myrtle Wilson. They attend a party where Myrtle acts like a wealthy socialite, but the evening ends violently when Tom hits her. The chapter explores themes of social class, immorality, and the pursuit of wealth, using geography and symbolism to highlight these issues.

What is the Valley of Ashes described as?

• A luxurious area with mansions

• A bustling marketplace

• A dismal location covered in grey dust

• A vibrant and lively place

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Who does Tom want to introduce to Nick during their train journey?

• His wife Daisy

• His business partner

• A famous author

• Myrtle Wilson, his mistress

What does Myrtle insist on buying from a street vendor?

• A bouquet of flowers

• A new dress

• A puppy

• A piece of jewelry

How does the party at the apartment come to an end?

• Tom strikes Myrtle, breaking her nose

• The police arrive

• Nick decides to leave

• They run out of drinks

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What does the Valley of Ashes symbolize?

• A place of spiritual enlightenment

• The beauty of nature

• The waste of capitalism

• A thriving community

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What do the faded eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg represent?

• The eyes of a wealthy businessman

• The eyes of God

• The eyes of a famous artist

• The eyes of a detective

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How is geography used as a motif in the novel?

• To show travel routes

• To differentiate social classes

• To describe the weather

• To highlight natural beauty

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What does Myrtle pretend to be during the party?

• A famous actress

• A wealthy socialite

• A successful businesswoman

• A renowned artist

What is Myrtle's attitude towards the puppy she buys?

• She treats it as a superficial accessory

• She shows genuine affection

• She is afraid of it

• She gives it away immediately

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What does Tom remind Myrtle of during the party?

• Her responsibilities

• Her dreams and aspirations

• Her love for him

• Her place in society