{"content":{"sharePage":{"page":0,"digests":[{"id":"13706021","dateCreated":"1251139534","smartDate":"Aug 24, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"hljacobs","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/hljacobs","imageUrl":"https:\/\/ssl.wikicdn.com\/i\/user_none_lg.jpg"},"monitored":false,"locked":false,"links":{"self":"https:\/\/kahonorsenglish11.wikispaces.com\/share\/view\/13706021"},"dateDigested":1531982841,"startDate":null,"sharedType":"discussion","title":"Are you ready?? ","description":"Well, the frist day of school is almost here. Are you ready? I have been reading your responses here and hope to have some feed back for you next week. We'll be starting off with a bang!","replyPages":[{"page":0,"digests":[],"more":0}]},{"id":"13558615","dateCreated":"1250197831","smartDate":"Aug 13, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"hljacobs","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/hljacobs","imageUrl":"https:\/\/ssl.wikicdn.com\/i\/user_none_lg.jpg"},"monitored":false,"locked":false,"links":{"self":"https:\/\/kahonorsenglish11.wikispaces.com\/share\/view\/13558615"},"dateDigested":1531982841,"startDate":null,"sharedType":"discussion","title":"HELLO!!","description":"Well, the summer is winding down and it is time to start getting ready to go back. Let me know if there are any problems on your end as far as the rest of the assignments go. I'll be responding to many of your posts in the next days!!","replyPages":[{"page":0,"digests":[],"more":0}]},{"id":"12660335","dateCreated":"1244218355","smartDate":"Jun 5, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"hljacobs","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/hljacobs","imageUrl":"https:\/\/ssl.wikicdn.com\/i\/user_none_lg.jpg"},"monitored":false,"locked":false,"links":{"self":"https:\/\/kahonorsenglish11.wikispaces.com\/share\/view\/12660335"},"dateDigested":1531982841,"startDate":null,"sharedType":"discussion","title":"Question 3","description":"Fitzgerlad is concerned with moral decisions and their effect upon character. How is this depicted in the novel?","replyPages":[{"page":0,"digests":[{"id":"13820531","body":"In response to kayladiller.
\n
\nI never stopped to think that Gatsby caused his own death. I just thought Daisy caused Gatsby's death by not admitting to killing Myrtle, but now that you explained that it is evident that Gatsby's death was due to his own immoral decisions. Also, if the same reasoning was used, it could be said that Myrtle caused her own death by being Tom's mistress. She was greedy for wealth and Tom was rich and high on the social ladder. Even though Daisy murdered Myrtle, it is partly Myrtle's fault for staying in a relationship with Tom.","dateCreated":"1251594071","smartDate":"Aug 29, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"mrumon","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/mrumon","imageUrl":"https:\/\/ssl.wikicdn.com\/i\/user_none_lg.jpg"}},{"id":"13820577","body":"In response to Mrumon:
\n
\nI agree with your example about Jordan Baker. Throughout the novel, Nick stated that he loved Jordan several times, but overall he was repulsed by her excessive need to lie. Lying is one of the basic morals that we are all taught, and Fitzgerald's depiction of Jordan's choice to lie is very blunt and relatable.","dateCreated":"1251594307","smartDate":"Aug 29, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"kayladiller","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/kayladiller","imageUrl":"https:\/\/ssl.wikicdn.com\/i\/user_none_lg.jpg"}},{"id":"13822119","body":" in response to mrumom
\n
\nI liked the fact that you paralleled the actions of Tom and Daisy. The situation is usually presented with Gatsby and Tom being immoral, and sometimes it's forgotten that Daisy had a part to play in Gatsby's wrongdoing, although he is the one who bears the brunt of the blame. I also agree with you that the novel is outstandingly immoral! This fact alone should show any reader that Fitzgerald is very much concerned with morality and people's decisions.","dateCreated":"1251604212","smartDate":"Aug 29, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"SWesolosky","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/SWesolosky","imageUrl":"https:\/\/ssl.wikicdn.com\/i\/user_none_lg.jpg"}},{"id":"13824727","body":"The moral decisions that the characters make effect both them and others. Relationships were ruined and lives were changed. Each moral decision almost had a domino effect.
\n
\nOne of the most effective moral decisions was Gatsby's to continue to pursue Daisy. Even though she was married to Tom he felt that he loved her more and deserved her in a way.An effect was Daisy responding to him. If he had been able to move on with his life after hearing Daisy was married, she was likely to have done the same. She may never of had to even know he was in West Egg. But he invited her over to his house and rekindled the lost flame between them. In a chain of events them being together would lead to Gatsby's death. If he hadn't forced Daisy to renounce her love to Tom. They wouldn't have been together in his car leaving the apartment. Daisy wouldn't have been so upset that she'd ask to drive, and so wouldn't have hit Mrs.Wilson. Finally Mr.Wilson would not have assumed it was him and shot him.
\n
\nGatsby is not the only man who made effective moral decisions.Tom deciding to cheat on Daisy with Mrs.Wilson made an effect similar to Gatsby's. He was fairly open about his affair so Daisy came to know about it. Knowing this pushed her even closer to Gatsby. If Tom had been a loyal husband maybe Daisy would have resisted a relationship with Gatsby. The relationship also contributed to multiple deaths. Though I can't say it was fully responsible, everyone is responsible for their own decision. Mrs.Wilson ran out to the car thinking Tom was in it, Daisy was behind the wheel and killed her. Mr.Wilson was in such a state of grief that he shot Gatsby thinking he had killed his wife, and then committed suicide. Its possible that if Mrs.Wilson hadn't thought Tom was driving the car, she wouldn't have gone onto the road to get its attention. Then the entire situation would have been avoided.
\n
\nSo every decision managed to effect multiple people. The decisions that were made shaped the story. If one of the characters had changed a decision the entire story would be effected.","dateCreated":"1251638420","smartDate":"Aug 30, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"jvNelson","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/jvNelson","imageUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/pic\/1248456337\/jvNelson-lg.jpg"}},{"id":"13824761","body":"in response to DominiqueCarino.
\n
\nI like how you focused on Toms way of thinking. He did feel completely justified in all his actions. He felt nothing he did would push Daisy away so it was o.k to have another affair. He blamed all the consequences on someone else. I never gave much thought to just how self absorbed Tom was,I'm glad you pointed it out.","dateCreated":"1251638828","smartDate":"Aug 30, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"jvNelson","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/jvNelson","imageUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/pic\/1248456337\/jvNelson-lg.jpg"}},{"id":"13825635","body":"In response to Kayladiller:
\n
\nReading your post made me realize how love for another can greatly affect the moral decisions one makes. You discussed how Gatsby had first met Daisy when he was a young man in the army. In order to impress her he made one of his first immoral decisions by lying about his background. Later on he becomes involved in bootlegging, again, to impress Daisy. He buys a huge house and throws extravagant parties, trying to attract her attention. These actions give the impression that Gatsby cares more about material possessions than people. He pursues a relationship with Daisy, even though he is fully aware she is married to Tom. Love and affection can cause people to make immoral decisions they would not have otherwise, as displayed in the novel by Gatsby. Had Jay Gatsby never fallen for Daisy, he may have been a more honest and morally correct character.","dateCreated":"1251647042","smartDate":"Aug 30, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"KylieJackson","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/KylieJackson","imageUrl":"https:\/\/ssl.wikicdn.com\/i\/user_none_lg.jpg"}},{"id":"13826169","body":"In response to Carasuni
\n
\nIn the second paragraph of your response, I really like how you explained the chain reaction of going against moral values. Tom and Myrtle's relationship certaintly causes many problems in the novel outside of their affair. If it was not for their affair, Myrtle's life would have most likely been saved. This shows that going against moral values not only affects your life, but others lives as well","dateCreated":"1251650337","smartDate":"Aug 30, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"ryan4141","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/ryan4141","imageUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/pic\/1300650693\/ryan4141-lg.jpg"}},{"id":"13830059","body":"Morality( or the lack of it)is a big theme in the novel. Characters in the novel could be divided into categories bases on their tendency to abide by their good morals. Characters of these opposing categories are presented quite differently.
\n "Good" characters are presented as innocent, naive, and old fashioned. Examples of "good" characters include Nick and...well, pretty much just Nick. This does not mean, however, that all of his decisions are morally correct. Nick, like most people, act base on what he "feels is correct".
\n The "Bad" characters are presented as greedy, arrogant, boastful, and abusive. None fits these characteristic as well as Tom does. He has an affair on his wife, but at the end gets away with it. Gatsby strays from the "badness" and takes the blame for Myrtle's death to spare Daisy. Gatsby, however, does not "get away with it". Instead, Mr. Wilson, tipped off by Tom, kills him. It seems that Gatsby paid the price for his immorality, but Tom( the most immoral of them all) gets to come away unscathed.","dateCreated":"1251671000","smartDate":"Aug 30, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"Lin45","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/Lin45","imageUrl":"https:\/\/ssl.wikicdn.com\/i\/user_none_lg.jpg"}},{"id":"13830139","body":"Considering how immorality affected the characters, did you think it was strange that Tom was able to walk away almost without being affected at all?","dateCreated":"1251671344","smartDate":"Aug 30, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"Lin45","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/Lin45","imageUrl":"https:\/\/ssl.wikicdn.com\/i\/user_none_lg.jpg"}},{"id":"13830529","body":" The minute a child is born, an admirable parent will do everything in their power to teach their child right from wrong. The problem in the world is that all parents\u2019 morals and standards are not exactly the same. An action that one child is taught may be morally permissive in one household, but not acceptable in another household. Every religion has moral guidelines and principles for their followers to abide by. The Ten Commandments are a set of moral standards that could pertain to the story, The Great Gatsby. Not every one of The Ten Commandments pertain to the story, but most of them do. Fitzgerald stresses throughout the novel that your actions have consequences, and a strong adequate moral foundation is key for an exceptional life.
\n
\n The forth commandment says to always honor your mother and father. Jay Gatsby abandons his family at an early age, and travels the world with Dan Cody. Jay did not think about how his actions would affect his parents. Jay did not honor his parents, and had a poor relationship with them; therefore, he grew up differently than he would have if he\u2019d have stayed home.
\n
\n According to the fifth commandment, thou shall not kill. A terrible mishap occurs towards the end of the story that involves Jay Gatsby, Daisy, and Tom\u2019s yellow car. It begins when Myrtle Wilson has a fight with George Wilson. She informs him that she is leaving and she walks out to the road. Meanwhile, Gatsby and Daisy come whizzing by in Tom\u2019s yellow car and fatally hit Myrtle, instantly taking her life. When Tom realizes who hit Myrtle, he is devastated and furious. In spite of Gatsby, Tom tells George Wilson that Jay Gatsby is the man who killed his wife. George Wilson is very unstable and he thinks very brashly. George arrives at Gatsby\u2019s estate and murders him. He then turns the gun on himself, and takes his own life.
\n
\n The commandment that is most frequently broken is the sixth commandment. The sixth commandment states, thou shall not commit acts of adultery. Throughout the story, the reader learns that the majority of the characters are having affairs with a number of the other characters\u2019 spouses. Tom Buchanan is having an affair with Myrtle Wilson. Tom Buchanan attempts to hide his affair by taking Myrtle to an apartment. George Wilson is left on the outside of this interweaving web of adultery. While this is occurring, Daisy Buchanan begins having an affair with her former lover, Jay Gatsby. Many of the characters find it very easy to cheat on their spouse; as a result, they continue to lie and cheat. The characters\u2019 poor moral decision making results in terrible outcomes for them. Myrtle and Gatsby end up dead. Tom and Daisy have to live with each other, always knowing that they both cheated on each other. They will probably be haunted by the idea that the other one is cheating on them because of their history. Their marriage will never be the same.
\n
\n The seventh commandment states, thou shall not steal. Jay Gatsby was a man who prestiged from rags to riches. The problem was that he gained his wealth and power through criminal activity. Jay was a bootlegger. He illegally smuggled and distributed alcohol. He gained his money wrongfully, and disobeyed the seventh commandment. Jay Gatsby became too powerful and felt as though he could steal whatever he wanted. He took Tom Buchanan\u2019s wife from him, and he paid the consequences.
\n
\n The ninth and tenth commandments state, thou shall not covet your neighbors house; you shall not covet your neighbor\u2019s wife; nor his male servant, nor his female servant, nor his ox, nor his donkey, nor anything that is your neighbors. These commandments mean that one should not wrongfully desire his neighbor\u2019s possessions. The crowds that attend Gatsby\u2019s lavish parties are composed of wealthy people. Many of his guests envy and want the power and wealth that Gatsby has. As included with the sixth commandment, many of the men in the story desire to acquire another man\u2019s wife. Fitzgerald displays his concern about man\u2019s greed by inflicting pain to the greedy men in the story.
\n
\n The Catholic faith believes that sinners must admit their sins and make peace, or they will be punished for their sins. Fitzgerald administers this idea of moral decisions to The Great Gatsby. Every character in the story that made corrupt moral decisions was punished in some fashion. The extent of the punishments that Fitzgerald administers range from a corrupt marriage to a fatal accident. Fitzgerald\u2019s moral decision concern is very evident throughout the story.","dateCreated":"1251673637","smartDate":"Aug 30, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"readim","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/readim","imageUrl":"https:\/\/ssl.wikicdn.com\/i\/user_none_lg.jpg"}},{"id":"13830963","body":"I liked how your response uniquely sorted the story\u2019s events into cause and effect. I also agree with the idea that Nick was an enabler third party that added to the poor moral decisions of the other characters. If Nick would have informed everyone about what was going on behind their backs, perhaps the story\u2019s events would have turned out differently. Nick did the wrong thing by helping to hide the affairs. The consequences of the other characters\u2019 actions would not have been as severe if Nick did not help hide their affairs.","dateCreated":"1251675639","smartDate":"Aug 30, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"readim","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/readim","imageUrl":"https:\/\/ssl.wikicdn.com\/i\/user_none_lg.jpg"}},{"id":"13831477","body":" The minute a child is born, an admirable parent will do everything in their power to teach their child right from wrong. The problem in the world is that all parents\u2019 morals and standards are not exactly the same. An action that one child is taught may be morally permissive in one household, but not acceptable in another household. Every religion has moral guidelines and principles for their followers to abide by. The Ten Commandments are a set of moral standards that could pertain to the story, The Great Gatsby. Not every one of The Ten Commandments pertain to the story, but most of them do. Fitzgerald stresses throughout the novel that your actions have consequences, and a strong adequate moral foundation is key for an exceptional life.
\n
\nThe fourth commandment says to always honor your mother and father. Jay Gatsby abandons his family at an early age, and travels the world with Dan Cody. Jay did not think about how his actions would affect his parents. Gatsby\u2019s early years were full of poverty and misfortune. As a result, he was not always the nicest to his parents. He believed in the green light at the end of the dock by Daisy\u2019s house. This light represents Gatsby\u2019s hopes and dreams for the future. He hopes to repay his father because he feels bad about leaving home at an early age. Fitzgerald explains that he hopes to repay his father by saying, \u201cGatsby believed in the green light, the orgastic future that year by year recedes before us. It eluded us then, but that\u2019s no matter- tomorrow we will run faster, stretch out our arms farther\u2026. And the one fine morning- So we beat on, boats against the current, borne back ceaselessly into the past.\u201d Jay did not honor his parents, and had a poor relationship with them; therefore, he grew up differently than he would have if he\u2019d have stayed home.
\n
\nAccording to the fifth commandment, thou shall not kill. A terrible mishap occurs towards the end of the story that involves Jay Gatsby, Daisy, and Tom\u2019s yellow car. It begins when Myrtle Wilson has a fight with George Wilson. She informs him that she is leaving and she walks out to the road. Meanwhile, Gatsby and Daisy come whizzing by in Tom\u2019s yellow car and fatally hit Myrtle, instantly taking her life. When Tom realizes who hit Myrtle, he is devastated and furious. In spite of Gatsby, Tom tells George Wilson that Jay Gatsby is the man who killed his wife. George Wilson is very unstable and he thinks very brashly. George arrives at Gatsby\u2019s estate and murders him. He then turns the gun on himself, and takes his own life.
\n
\nThe commandment that is most frequently broken is the sixth commandment. The sixth commandment states, thou shall not commit acts of adultery. Throughout the story, the reader learns that the majority of the characters are having affairs with a number of the other characters\u2019 spouses. Tom Buchanan is having an affair with Myrtle Wilson. Tom Buchanan attempts to hide his affair by taking Myrtle to an apartment. George Wilson is left on the outside of this interweaving web of adultery. While this is occurring, Daisy Buchanan begins having an affair with her former lover, Jay Gatsby. Many of the characters find it very easy to cheat on their spouse; as a result, they continue to lie and cheat. The characters\u2019 poor moral decision making results in terrible outcomes for them. Myrtle and Gatsby end up dead. Tom and Daisy have to live with each other, always knowing that they both cheated on each other. They will probably be haunted by the idea that the other one is cheating on them because of their history. Their marriage will never be the same.
\n
\nThe seventh commandment states, thou shall not steal. Jay Gatsby was a man who prestiged from rags to riches. The problem was that he gained his wealth and power through criminal activity. Jay was a bootlegger. He illegally smuggled and distributed alcohol. He gained his money wrongfully, and disobeyed the seventh commandment. Jay Gatsby became too powerful and felt as though he could steal whatever he wanted. He took Tom Buchanan\u2019s wife from him, and he paid the consequences.
\n
\nThe ninth and tenth commandments state, thou shall not covet your neighbors house; you shall not covet your neighbor\u2019s wife; nor his male servant, nor his female servant, nor his ox, nor his donkey, nor anything that is your neighbors. These commandments mean that one should not wrongfully desire his neighbor\u2019s possessions. The crowds that attend Gatsby\u2019s lavish parties are composed of wealthy people. Many of his guests envy and want the power and wealth that Gatsby has. As included with the sixth commandment, many of the men in the story desire to acquire another man\u2019s wife. Fitzgerald displays his concern about man\u2019s greed by inflicting pain to the greedy men in the story.
\n
\nThe Catholic faith believes that sinners must admit their sins and make peace, or they will be punished for their sins. Fitzgerald administers this idea of moral decisions to The Great Gatsby. Every character in the story that made corrupt moral decisions was punished in some fashion. The extent of the punishments that Fitzgerald administers range from a corrupt marriage to a fatal accident. Fitzgerald\u2019s moral decision concern is very evident throughout the story.","dateCreated":"1251677389","smartDate":"Aug 30, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"readim","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/readim","imageUrl":"https:\/\/ssl.wikicdn.com\/i\/user_none_lg.jpg"}}],"more":40}]},{"id":"12660295","dateCreated":"1244218302","smartDate":"Jun 5, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"hljacobs","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/hljacobs","imageUrl":"https:\/\/ssl.wikicdn.com\/i\/user_none_lg.jpg"},"monitored":false,"locked":false,"links":{"self":"https:\/\/kahonorsenglish11.wikispaces.com\/share\/view\/12660295"},"dateDigested":1531982842,"startDate":null,"sharedType":"discussion","title":"Question 2","description":"At one pint Fitzgerlad considered titling this novel Under the Red, White and Blue. Is this story exclusively American?","replyPages":[{"page":0,"digests":[{"id":"13703551","body":"The Great Gatsby, written by F. Scott Fitzgerald, is considered to be a novel reflective of American culture in the roaring twenties. Because of the strong American theme, the novel was almost titled Under the Red White and Blue. The great Gatsby is an exclusively American story because of the way that it represents American culture.
\n The story takes place in New York, during the 1920\u2019s, a turn of the century decade. The 1920\u2019s were a time of rebellion and gratification, very important to the history of America. People learned that at this time it was easier to get what they wanted by using less traditional tactics such as lying, stealing, and murder. The characters in the novel portrayed this theme very well. Most of them had few or little moral obligations, such as Tom Buchanan. Tom left his wife and child on a regular basis to have scandalous parties in his secret apartment and meet with his mistress. He was rebelling against the traditional society rules, and was pursuing his desires. This represents how America began to lose its respectable values and morals. Jay Gatsby also engaged in wrongful doings to get what he wanted. He wanted to become wealthy so he could win the heart of his former love, Daisy. He was a bootlegger, and \u201csold grain alcohol over the counter\u201d (133). Gatsby then threw lavish and wild parties every Saturday night with the hope of attracting Daisy; \u201cGatsby bought that house so that Daisy would be just across the bay\u2026he half expected her to wander into one of his parties\u201d (78). Just like America today, most Americans want to forget their responsibilities, act rebellious, and have fun. Jay Gatsby represents how Americans began to do whatever it took to achieve the big expensive house, the breakable foreign artifacts, and the ability to have wild parties where everyone forgets who they are.
\n The themes that made The Great Gatsby are the things that have shaped America throughout the years. Americans feel less guilty to lie, cheat, and steal their way to success. Americans also want to feel important and rich; not only rich with money but rich in lifestyle and rich with friends. The Great Gatsby portrayed American culture not only in the 1920\u2019s but also how America was shaped in today\u2019s culture.","dateCreated":"1251130214","smartDate":"Aug 24, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"marincypher","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/marincypher","imageUrl":"https:\/\/ssl.wikicdn.com\/i\/user_none_lg.jpg"}},{"id":"13703765","body":"In response to hollingerk's answer.
\n
\n I believe that the foreign concepts of the novel are not important enough to change the sole American theme of the novel. Although it could be argued that the novel is American, and not exclusively Amecerican, I still disagree with your answer.
\n
\nIn response to Lin45's answer.
\n
\n I agree with what you said about how the events of the novel can be universaly understood. People can lie and cheat anywhere, not just in America. Also, everyone does have their own variation of a story but I think that The Great Gatsby would have the same sole theme of the corruption by greed and wealth throughout the world. Although, you are right in saying that a story comes from our imagination, and everyone's imagination differs so The Great Gatsby could be interpreted differently by different cultures and people.","dateCreated":"1251130963","smartDate":"Aug 24, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"marincypher","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/marincypher","imageUrl":"https:\/\/ssl.wikicdn.com\/i\/user_none_lg.jpg"}},{"id":"13738931","body":"The novel is exclusively american for many reasons. There were many different events that are only in america such as Gatsby's parties. While in other countries they partake in frivolous parties it is mostly in america that people would be allowed to just stop by like some of the guests encountered in the novel. Most of the partiers had never even met Gatsbty before and yet Jay allowed then to remain at his party. Another event in the novel that was american was prohibition. The criminilization of alcohol was entirely american in the sense that bootleggers came about in america when prohibition did. It was also common in the days of prohibition that people would make backdoor deals to get the alcohol. A lot of americans made fortunes selling illegal alcohol. It is also american in the sense that america is the place where someone can act as they please within the limitations of the law. In most countries, a woman even looking at another man would mean immediate death and is viewed as betrayal to her husband. Daisy Buchanan had dared to love Jay Gatsby while she was married to Tom Buchanan and she, for the most part, had gotten away with it.
\n
\nThe novel is also not exclusively american because of the habits of the main characters. The men cheated on their wives and the wives were expected to except that fact. The same situation is also commonly found in countries such as Arabia and the Philippines. Most of the situations in the novel could apply to any country such as the indulgance of alcohol, the partying, and the men controlling the woman.
\n
\nOverall i believe that the novel being exclusively american is up to the interpretation of the reader. i don't necessarily believe that the novel is exclusively american even though the most evidence leans in that direction.","dateCreated":"1251253945","smartDate":"Aug 25, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"galleygirl","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/galleygirl","imageUrl":"https:\/\/ssl.wikicdn.com\/i\/user_none_lg.jpg"}},{"id":"13739263","body":"In response to mmm18's answer:
\n
\nI dont necessarily agree with your observation that people in other countries can't go from "rags to riches". While most countries dictate that where a person stands in life is where he is born, a person can still make something of themselves. I stated in one of my posts that a person is defined bu his actions, and i believe that it not only qualifies in america but in other countries as well. Even though someone is born into a certain situation doesnt mean that they cant do the necessary things to change their situtaion.","dateCreated":"1251254869","smartDate":"Aug 25, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"galleygirl","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/galleygirl","imageUrl":"https:\/\/ssl.wikicdn.com\/i\/user_none_lg.jpg"}},{"id":"13781671","body":"this is in response to kisemans
\n
\ni cannot deny there were other cultures present in this novel. you provided a valid point. Now i cannot decide if the title is apropiate or not. Your points defiantly made me rethink my answer.","dateCreated":"1251407808","smartDate":"Aug 27, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"meezer11","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/meezer11","imageUrl":"https:\/\/ssl.wikicdn.com\/i\/user_none_lg.jpg"}},{"id":"13807165","body":" The American dream has varied since the beginning of our country; however, the idea of obtaining freedom, self-reliance, and a desire for something greater has remained the same. Beginning at an early age, Americans begin competing with each other for wealth, social status, power, and love. We are willing to put everything on the line to achieve these personal progresses. All the characters in The Great Gatsby are striving for the American dream. Jay Gatsby tries to impress his true love, Daisy, by obtaining materialistic things. He spends his entire life enticing people with his possessions, in order to be reunited with Daisy. Gatsby\u2019s drive in life and all his success was for Daisy.
\n Unfortunately, Americans prove to be never satisfied. When Jay Gatsby has won Daisy\u2019s heart, he still wants more. He tells Daisy to admit that she never loved her husband Tom, and that the only man she ever loved was Jay Gatsby. She responds to him by saying, \u201cOh, you want too much! I love you now, isn\u2019t that enough?\u201d The married couples in the novel have all achieved great feats in their lives. Their need for more is what causes them to cheat on their spouses. Fifty percent of marriages in the United States end in divorce because Americans always want more. No matter how much wealth and power an American has, we still yearn for more. This American power hungry drive in life is what leads to the down fall of many of the characters in the novel.
\n Another American dream is to go from rags to riches. James Gatz was a poor young man who had the great quality of self determination. His self-determination paid off when he became a wealthy adult. Jay Gatsby\u2019s father is very proud of his son, and explains to Nick that he always knew he was bound for greater things. Henry Gatz (Jay\u2019s Father) tells Nick, \u201cJames knew he had a big future in front of him. And ever since he made success he was very generous to me.\u201d
\n The most patriotic act that an American can do for their nation is to serve in the military. Jay Gatsby defended the United States and proudly served in World War I. It was during this war that he made many friends and connections in the business world.
\n F. Scott Fitzgerald mentions the two most American sports in the novel. Tom Buchanan attended Yale and played college football. The 1919 World Series is mentioned because Mr. Meyer Wolfsheim supposedly was the man who fixed the series.
\n Although there is foreign influence present in the story, it is still exclusively American. Fitzgerald\u2019s idea of titling the novel Under the Red, White, and Blue would have been an appropriate title for this story.","dateCreated":"1251490748","smartDate":"Aug 28, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"readim","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/readim","imageUrl":"https:\/\/ssl.wikicdn.com\/i\/user_none_lg.jpg"}},{"id":"13807191","body":"I agree with Kiseman\u2019s ideas about the foreign influence present in the novel. Although, the cultural influence Kiseman spoke about is what defines America. An American is not a person of one specific background. One will rarely find two Americans with the same cultural background and ancestry. There aren\u2019t any other nations like America, and that is what makes our country so great. Every other country in the world has people who like an act similar to each other. America has a variety of different people with ancestry from all over the globe. The characters in the story are American due to their vastly different backgrounds and personalities","dateCreated":"1251490886","smartDate":"Aug 28, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"readim","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/readim","imageUrl":"https:\/\/ssl.wikicdn.com\/i\/user_none_lg.jpg"}},{"id":"13816649","body":"In response to Kiseman
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\nAlthough you make excellent points about the characters' diverse nationalities, I have to disagree with you. All Americans are descendants of immagrants from different countries, making The Great Gatsby an American novel. The different backgrounds of Americans have helped shape our couontry to where it is today.
\n
\nThe extravagant parties that Jay Gatsby throws help depict the great deal of prosperity and wealth that many Americans had during the Roaring Twenties. This time in American history is well-known, and this novel helps describe what life was like.","dateCreated":"1251565692","smartDate":"Aug 29, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"ryan4141","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/ryan4141","imageUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/pic\/1300650693\/ryan4141-lg.jpg"}},{"id":"13819621","body":"The Great Gatsby is exclusively American for a number of reasons.
\n
\nFirst, the novel takes place during a time era known as the 'Roaring Twenties.' Yes other countries have went through similiar occurrances but not like America. For example, many countries have had a period of time where it was spent with parties and wealth, but only America 'abused' these things so greatly causing America to fall into a depression in a mere 8 or 9 years. Also this decade in time seems to be more extreme than any other country when said country went through similiar experiences.
\n
\nSecondly, the book displays numerous foreign aspects. America is known as the 'mixing pot' due to all of the different ethnicities and backgrounds that form America. Therefore, the foreign aspects of this novel only prove that this novel is exclusively American. No other country is created from a number of backgrounds such as America.
\n
\nLastly, the book portrays the American Dream which, of course, is only possible in America. Nick Carraway moved from the Midwest to New York City in order to become more of a business man. Jay Gatsby went from being poor to being an aristocrat. Both are possible in other countries, but both are considered American Dreams. America was a place of hope.
\n
\nAlthough I feel that The Great Gatsby is exclusively American, actions from the characters are universal. In almost all countries men and women cheat on their spouses. It is, however, considered more acceptable in the United States more so than any other country. Also many countries hold extravagant parties such as Gatsby did. Therefore i see how The Great Gatsby can be seen as a universal book, but i feel that it shows to be more of an American novel.","dateCreated":"1251588099","smartDate":"Aug 29, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"mrumon","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/mrumon","imageUrl":"https:\/\/ssl.wikicdn.com\/i\/user_none_lg.jpg"}},{"id":"13819801","body":"In response to DominiqueCarino
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\nYour answer makes me agree with your opinion more. I did not think and consider the Renaissance like you did in your answer. I feel that America handled the twenties in a more extreme manner, though, causing it to differ greatly. Due to this, America sets itself apart from other countries in times such as the twenties. I do agree with you on the fact that people take many things for granted and feel that that is universal like you said. All in all, I thought you put a lot a thought into your response and brought out some interesting points that i did not consider.","dateCreated":"1251588945","smartDate":"Aug 29, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"mrumon","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/mrumon","imageUrl":"https:\/\/ssl.wikicdn.com\/i\/user_none_lg.jpg"}},{"id":"13820287","body":"Yes, this story is exclusively American because of the social advancement present in the novel and the overall themes of greed and self-indulgence. America is famous for the ability of people to go from "rags to riches." It is a common idea in America that a person can be born into a lowerclass family and grow up to be wealthy and powerful, such as Gatsby did. Gatsby came from a family with no money or power but left his family and went on to become a great officer in the Army. Gatsby abandoning his family shows that he is more concerned with himself than others.
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\nHowever, upon arriving home, Gatsby was penniless, but once again became wealthy and important. Gatsby acquired his wealth through questionablt methods like bootlegging, but this also characterizes America. The Great Gatsby was set in the Roaring 20s, which was a time of illegal alchol production and other corrupt business. Although the way Gatsby advanced in society was illegal and immoral, his actions characterized American during the 1920s.
\n
\nAmericans are also notorious for being greedy and selfish, which is also evident in the novel. Gatsby chases after what he wants without thinking of the consequences of his actions. Not only did Gatsby lust after money, but he lusted after Daisy and even though she was already married, Gatbsy did anything in his power to attain Daisy.
\n
\nOverall, this book is predomininatly American because the themse in the novel coincide with American society.","dateCreated":"1251592615","smartDate":"Aug 29, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"kayladiller","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/kayladiller","imageUrl":"https:\/\/ssl.wikicdn.com\/i\/user_none_lg.jpg"}},{"id":"13820497","body":"In response to Kiseman:
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\nI disagree with your opinion that The Great Gatsby is not exclusively an American novel. Yes, some of the characters are from foreign descent, but that is a commonplace in America. Almost every American is from foreign descent, and that is why America is referred to as the Melting Pot. If anything, diversity among the characters makes this book more American.
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\nI think aknowledging that the overriding themes in this book as being stereotypical of America makes it obvious that The Great Gatsby is exclusively American.","dateCreated":"1251593842","smartDate":"Aug 29, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"kayladiller","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/kayladiller","imageUrl":"https:\/\/ssl.wikicdn.com\/i\/user_none_lg.jpg"}}],"more":39}]},{"id":"12660241","dateCreated":"1244218243","smartDate":"Jun 5, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"hljacobs","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/hljacobs","imageUrl":"https:\/\/ssl.wikicdn.com\/i\/user_none_lg.jpg"},"monitored":false,"locked":false,"links":{"self":"https:\/\/kahonorsenglish11.wikispaces.com\/share\/view\/12660241"},"dateDigested":1531982843,"startDate":null,"sharedType":"discussion","title":"Question 1","description":"What is a real gentleman? Discuss the men in the novel.","replyPages":[{"page":0,"digests":[{"id":"13705035","body":"In response to hollingerk's answer and comment.
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\nI like your definition of a gentleman, I think it pertains well to this story. Although I do disagree that Jay Gatsby is a true gentleman. He is having an affair with a married woman, and a true gentleman would not attempt to start an affair. Liek you said, a gentleman should respect what a lady wants. I do agree with you that Nick appears to be a gentleman on the surface, and it was a gentleman-like gesture when he tried to gather up people for Gatsby's funeral.","dateCreated":"1251135971","smartDate":"Aug 24, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"marincypher","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/marincypher","imageUrl":"https:\/\/ssl.wikicdn.com\/i\/user_none_lg.jpg"}},{"id":"13737967","body":"In response to JPenta's answer:
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\neven though the men in the novel acted the way that society expected them to act, they still could have broken away from the traditional expectations. Bad behavior should not be measured by the behavior of other people. i also disagreed when he said that "By acting as they did, they made themselves gentlemen, simply because their peers condoned their actions, and expected nothing less." this isnt necessarily true by the meer fact that people have their own minds and they have thier own actions. just because thier peers expected them to be a certain way, didn't mean that they had to act that way.","dateCreated":"1251251991","smartDate":"Aug 25, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"galleygirl","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/galleygirl","imageUrl":"https:\/\/ssl.wikicdn.com\/i\/user_none_lg.jpg"}},{"id":"13747643","body":"A real gentleman is someone who attempts in all instances to be moral and respectful. Most of the men in The Great Gatsby cannot be considered a gentleman by this definition. In fact, there is only one man in the story that I would consider a real gentleman.
\nTom Buchanan seems to be the farthest from a gentleman. Not only does he frequently cheat on his wife, but in one instance, he hit his mistress so hard he broke her nose. He is also openly racist and appears to believe he is better than others because of his wealth. These attributes show a lack of respect and consideration for others. Mr. Wilson, too, is out of the running for the title of gentleman because he shot Mr. Gatsby. Most people will agree that in no situation is murder an attempt to be moral.
\nJay Gatsby is closer to a gentleman than Tom, but still has a few major flaws. Although he is polite to others and is a generous host, he attained his vast wealth through criminal activity. This action reveals that his decisions are made through selfishness rather than ethics.
\nBy my definition, Nick Carraway wins the title of "gentleman" in this novel. Although he is the narrator, many of Nick's thoughts and opinions are not revealed to the reader, which is why one must guess at his reasoning. At one point in the novel, Nick is offered a high-pying job for Mr. Wolfsheim, a shady character in a shady business, but Nick declines. This simple action reveals that he places morals over money. Throughout the novel, Nick know about Tom's affair with Myrtle, but does not tell Daisy. However, it appears to already know that Tom was unfaithful. In that case, it would have been unhelpful to bring up the subject during his visits and cause a fight. It also can be concluded from this that when he involved himself in Daisy's and Gatsby's affair, he felt is was for the best and that Daisy deserved better than Tom. Therefore, even though the result of his actions may have been bad, Nick was only doing what he thought was best. This qualifies him as a real genlteman.","dateCreated":"1251296182","smartDate":"Aug 26, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"mkrynock","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/mkrynock","imageUrl":"https:\/\/ssl.wikicdn.com\/i\/user_none_lg.jpg"}},{"id":"13775611","body":"In response to MKrynock
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\nI forgot that Nick was offered a job by Mr. Wolfsheim. Like you stated, this definitely shows that he has good moral values. If he did not, he would have taken the job regardless of its legality. The more I think about it the more I feel that Nick is in fact, a gentleman. Everyone has flaws and thinking that Nick could not be a true gentleman just because he has flaws would be foolish. MKrynock is right in stating that although we may see it as a bad decision not to tell Daisy about Tom's infidelity, he was just trying to do what is best for her.","dateCreated":"1251390741","smartDate":"Aug 27, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"KylieJackson","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/KylieJackson","imageUrl":"https:\/\/ssl.wikicdn.com\/i\/user_none_lg.jpg"}},{"id":"13781717","body":"in respone to kyliejackson
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\nI fully agree with all the points you made in your answer. A true gentlmen is not only how he treats women but also how he treats others around him. I left this out in my answer only focusing on how they treated women but you make a valid point.","dateCreated":"1251408026","smartDate":"Aug 27, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"meezer11","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/meezer11","imageUrl":"https:\/\/ssl.wikicdn.com\/i\/user_none_lg.jpg"}},{"id":"13806999","body":" The term gentleman is an extremely vague topic that can be used to describe numerous men from diverse backgrounds. The characteristics that define a gentleman are often arguable. One may find himself wondering what truly defines a gentleman. The American Heritage College Dictionary administers two definitions that could help depict a real gentleman.
\n According to the first definition, a gentleman is a man of gentle or noble birth or superior social position. All of the men from the novel fall under this category to some extent. Jay Gatsby claims to have obtained his fortune from his father; but throughout the novel, the reader learns that he was a bootlegger and a criminal. The first definition of a gentleman focuses on superior social position, and Jay Gatsby has achieved that from his lavish parties that he throws every Saturday night. The men of West Egg are characterized as \u201cthe newly rich.\u201d The majority of the men were born into families with money and had many advantages and opportunities in which they benefited from early in life. At the beginning of the novel, Nick explains a quote about morals that his father taught him. He explains that his father said, \u201cWhenever you feel like criticizing anyone, just remember that all the people in this world haven\u2019t had the advantages you\u2019ve had.\u201d All of the men in the novel attended prestigious colleges and had many opportunities given to them early in life. According to the first definition all of the men from the novel are so call \u201cGentlemen\u201d.
\n The second definition states that a gentleman is a well-mannered and considerate man with high standards of proper behavior. The majority of the men in the novel lack the qualities of good manners and proper behavior. Most people would believe that a Yale graduate like Tom Buchanan would have some manners and proper behavior, but early on in the novel he proves to be an arrogant racist and sexist. Tom believes it is morally right to have an affair with another man\u2019s wife. In the second chapter, Tom goes to the Wilson\u2019s home and blatantly takes Myrtle Wilson (The woman he is having the affair with) with him. That evening, Tom and Myrtle have a dinner party at their apartment where they keep their affair. A true gentleman would not run off and commit adulteries in a random hidden apartment. At the dinner party, Tom punches Myrtle in the nose for speaking of his wife Daisy. After committing this heinous act, he could never be defined as a gentleman. By having an affair with Myrtle, Tom is ruining his marriage as well as Myrtle and George Wilson\u2019s marriage. Tom does not consider other people\u2019s feelings or emotions at all throughout the novel. Tom Buchanan has the least amount of gentleman\u2019s qualities of all the men in the novel. The fact that Jay Gatsby does not drink alcohol at his parties could classify him as a gentleman. The true reason he sustains from drinking is because he wants to have an advantage over all his guests. He manipulates his guests when they are intoxicated and learns personal information from them that they would not tell him when they were sober. Jay Gatsby learned this tactic from Dan Cody, a famous man in which he often traveled with during his early years. The reader learns that James Gatz (Jay\u2019s former name) was once a determined young man that had many fulfilling life goals and dreams. His adult character Jay Gatsby is displayed as a man with distraught morals and values. Jay Gatsby has an affair with Daisy Buchanan and uses Nick Carraway to get to her. Jay Gatsby obtained his wealth to gain a high social status and to woo his true love Daisy. Although he may act like a real gentleman, his actions prove him of being far from one. The narrator of the novel, Nick Carraway, might be the only man in the novel close to achieving the characteristics of a real gentleman. The quote that best describes Nick\u2019s personality is when he says, \u201cEveryone suspects himself of at least one of the cardinal virtues and this is mine: I am one of the few honest people that I have ever known.\u201d Nick lives up to that quote countless times throughout the novel. The quality that keeps Nick from being a real gentleman is that he is cowardly. Nick is aware of all the affairs and the adulteries that are occurring with his friends; although, he fails to inform his friends on what is happening behind their backs. Another example of a man who pretends to be a gentleman, is a man named Klipspringer. He is a man who pretends to be Gatsby\u2019s friend, but is truly only a freeloader. Klipspringer takes advantage of Gatsby\u2019s fortune while Gatsby is alive. When Gatsby dies, he does not attend his funeral. Instead of mourning his friend\u2019s death, he calls Nick about a pair of tennis shoes that he forgot at the mansion.
\n After studying the definitions of a real gentleman and discussing the men of the novel, a real gentleman can be defined in one sentence. A real gentleman is a man born into an admirable family, who respects women, and has exceptional manners!","dateCreated":"1251490078","smartDate":"Aug 28, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"readim","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/readim","imageUrl":"https:\/\/ssl.wikicdn.com\/i\/user_none_lg.jpg"}},{"id":"13807109","body":" I strongly agree with Kiseman\u2019s definition of a real gentleman. I believe it gave a personal and deeper insight of the qualities of a real gentleman. The topic of chivalry is strongly controversial. Chivalry is more than just opening doors for women. The term chivalry is defined by three components-(Courage, Courtesy, and Loyalty).
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\n Not one of the men in the novel display chivalrous behavior; therefore, they are not real gentleman. Nick Carraway has the courtesy factor of chivalry, but lacks loyalty and courage. Nick respects women and is cordial towards them. He displays no courage and disloyalty by failing to inform his own cousin about the affair that Tom is having with Myrtle. Jay Gatsby has courage but falls short of being courteous and loyal. Jay Gatsby displayed courage by fighting in the war and for his beloved Daisy. Jay deserted his family and traveled with Dan Cody. He lacks courtesy by having an affair with Daisy. Tom Buchanan has the same qualities of chivalry as Jay Gatsby. I believe that this is the reason that Tom and Jay both love the same woman. Tom shows the wrong kind of courage by going to the Wilson\u2019s garage and taking Myrtle with him. He lacks loyalty to his wife. Tom displays no amount of courtesy by punching Myrtle in the nose.
\n
\n According to Kiseman\u2019s definition of a real gentleman, none of the men in the novel qualify.","dateCreated":"1251490488","smartDate":"Aug 28, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"readim","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/readim","imageUrl":"https:\/\/ssl.wikicdn.com\/i\/user_none_lg.jpg"}},{"id":"13812097","body":"In response to Kiseman's answer
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\nI think Kate is very accurate on identifying that although there are no real gentlemen in The Great Gatsby, Nick is the closest to being one. Nick at least understands and attempts to treat others, including women, with the upmost respect. However, it almost seems as if his involvement in the other characters' affairs is a result of being corrupted by society. Nick came from a family that apparently had strong moral values, as enforced by his father. But as he gets involved with the other characters, he loses sight of these moral values and becomes caught up in their affairs.","dateCreated":"1251514810","smartDate":"Aug 28, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"ryan4141","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/ryan4141","imageUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/pic\/1300650693\/ryan4141-lg.jpg"}},{"id":"13819191","body":"The title 'gentleman' has changed throughout the years to fit accordingly to society. In the 1920s, for example, a gentleman would be a man born into a family with wealth and high social standings. Today, however, a man is considered a gentleman when he is polite and courteous. In both cases, the definition of a gentleman does not fully apply to any of the characters in the novel.
\n
\nNick Carraway, the narrator of The Great Gatsby, is the only man in the novel to be considered a gentleman by his actions and not his standings in society. Nick is almost always courteous to others. Even though he does not tell Daisy of the affair that is occuring between Tom, Daisy's husband, and Myrtle, Tom's mistress, that is not considered to be rude. It is considered to be dishonest, but that does not fall under the category of a gentleman. I feel that it would be rude, however, to barge in on the personnal lives of Tom and Daisy. Out of all the male characters, Carraway is by far the closest to a gentleman.
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\nTom Buchanan, the husband of Daisy, is only considered a gentleman by his wealth and standings in society. He is not a gentleman by the means of courtesy. Tom not only cheats on his wife, he also flaunts his wealth and lifestyle infront of Nick. Tom is very sexist and feels that men should be in control of nearly everything. He also displays an air of arrogance to those who surround him. Tom's only means of being a gentleman are due to the family he was born into.
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\nJay Gatsby, formally known as James Gatz, is not a gentleman in either situations. He was born into a family with little money and almost no social standing. Jay also recreated himself in order to acheive something he fancied: wealth and Daisy. This is not an action from a gentleman. Parties are thrown every weekend in order to impress the public. Gatsby never proves to be polite such as a gentleman should be. Neither definitions of a gentleman apply to Jay Gatsby.","dateCreated":"1251584201","smartDate":"Aug 29, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"mrumon","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/mrumon","imageUrl":"https:\/\/ssl.wikicdn.com\/i\/user_none_lg.jpg"}},{"id":"13819253","body":"In response to mkrynock
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\nI agree with all the points you stated. I too feel that by not bringing up the affair to Daisy was a gentleman action. It would have caused more trouble than good. It is also obvious that Daisy knew at least something about the affair because Miss Baker, a guest at dinner from chapter 1, stated, "I thought everbody knew," referring to the affair between Tom and Myrtle. Like Michelle said, Nick's morals are placed higher than wealth which makes him the best example of a gentleman.
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\nThis is not in response to mkrynock response, but i forgot to mention in my prior post that Jay Gatsby is even less of a gentleman due to the way he acheived his wealth.","dateCreated":"1251585028","smartDate":"Aug 29, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"mrumon","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/mrumon","imageUrl":"https:\/\/ssl.wikicdn.com\/i\/user_none_lg.jpg"}},{"id":"13819813","body":" Traditionally, a gentleman is simply a well-bred from a wealthy and powerful family. It was thought that a man's family background will instill certain values and morals, such as respect towards others, avoiding indulging in one's desires, and overall social grace, which all define the modern gentleman.
\n In The Great Gatsby, Tom Buchannon is a gentleman by the tradtional definition, although he obviously lacks the values that we associate with gentlemen. Tom comes from a rich, Mid-western family that is very well respected. However, upon marrying Daisy is character flaws become evident. Tom first disrespects Daisy by having an affair with Myrtle Wilson. Tom shows no remorse for his actions, but at the slightest inclination of an affair between Daisy and Gatsby, Tom becomes an overzealous, contentious brute. He quarrels with Gatsby over Daisy's love and tries to manipulate her into admitting she never had feelings for Gatsby, when its evident that she did. Tom also makes several insensitive comments that elude to his intolerant views on women and other races, such as comparing love between Daisy and Gatsby to marriage between Blacks and Whites. Overall, Tom proves himself to be arrogant, rude, selfish and hypocritical, however his posistion as a traditional gentleman is not challenged in the book because of his family's power.
\n Nick, who also comes from the Midwest, did not come from a familiy quite as powerful as Tom's nor as wealthy, but Nick is more civilized and has better character. From the start of the novel, Nick seems to be relaxed and helpful. He is more concerned with helping the lives of others instead of personal gain. For example, Nick helps Gatsby reunite with his love Daisy but refuses Gatsby's compensation, a well-paying job in Gatsby's shady business, because he does not want to be connected to something immoral or wrong. Nick also remains a true friend of Gatsby after his death by organizing his funeral. Before his death, Gatsby seemed to be very popular because of the large number of guests that attended his parties. However, only Nick seems to be truly devoted to Gatsby after his death because nobody else is interested in the funeral. Overall, Nick fits the modern definition of a gentleman by proving himself to be courteous, well-mannered devoted, and trustworthy throughout the novel.
\n The last man in question of being a gentleman is Gatsby. Gatsby comes from a menial family but makes money as an adult through scandalous methods. Although Gatsby's past is secretive and criminal, Gatsby is dictated by an innocent love for Daisy Buchannon. Gatsby fell in love with Daisty five years before the novel takes place. Since then, everything he did was to find Daisy, which was why he moved into the big house across the bay from where she lived with Tom Buchannon and threw giant parties in hopes that she would venture back into his life. However, Gatsby says himself that he would never steal another man's wife, so he was conflicted with how to attain Daisy again. This shows that he has some amount of respect for others. In the end, despite his belief, Gatsby does give into his own desires and asks Nick to arrange a meeting between the two of them. Although Gatsby seems to have good intentions, he always does what is best for him and his own advancement. Overall, Gatsby cannot be classified as either definition of a gentleman because he does not come from a upperclass family and he is selfish and deceitful.","dateCreated":"1251589143","smartDate":"Aug 29, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"kayladiller","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/kayladiller","imageUrl":"https:\/\/ssl.wikicdn.com\/i\/user_none_lg.jpg"}},{"id":"13820447","body":"In response to mkrynock:
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\nI agree that Nick did the right thing whenever he did not inform Daisy of Tom's affair with Myrtle Wilson. By informing Daisy of the affair, Nick would have just embarassed Daisy and possibly damaged her reputation, which is unlike a proper gentleman. Also, I agree that Nick interfered in Daisy's relationship with Tom with the best intentions. It was obvious to Nick that Gatsby loved Daisy more than Tom and would take better care of her. Therefore, by arranging a meeting between Daisy and Gatsby, Nick was only trying to do the best thing for Daisy.","dateCreated":"1251593500","smartDate":"Aug 29, 2009","userCreated":{"username":"kayladiller","url":"https:\/\/www.wikispaces.com\/user\/view\/kayladiller","imageUrl":"https:\/\/ssl.wikicdn.com\/i\/user_none_lg.jpg"}}],"more":42}]}],"more":false},"comments":[]},"http":{"code":200,"status":"OK"},"redirectUrl":null,"javascript":null,"notices":{"warning":[],"error":[],"info":[],"success":[]}}