The Great Gatsby
Culminating Writing Assessment
You will be assigned one of the following topics to address:
A. The American Dream: What is F. Scott Fitzgerald’s commentary on the American
Dream? In other words, what theme is he trying to convey about the American Dream?
Include specific evidence from the book that shows the Modernist (NOT modern) view of
the American Dream.
B. Meaningful Symbols: How does Fitzgerald use symbols to convey a major theme? This
one sounds easy, but it is challenging because you must discuss three symbols, however,
all three have to contribute to one theme.
C. The Role of “Setting”: How do the various settings reflect themes and characters? East
and West Egg are obvious, so if you discuss them, they must be examined together in
one paragraph. Then, choose two additional settings to analyze. How do dwellings
reflect characters and themes?
D. Tragic Flaws: Which character do you think is the most flawed, and why? This will be a
very in-depth analysis of the person and will explore his or her desires, realities, character
flaws, etc.
E. The Use of Violence: Fitzgerald injects several scenes in the novel that depict great
acts of violence. Cite at least three instances of violence, and analyze the effect each
has on the story and on an identified theme.
Length: Minimum of five paragraphs
Requirements:
A handwritten rough draft
Final draft: MLA format, typed, double-spaced, Times New Roman, size 12 font
One block quote, formatted correctly
One secondary source from GALILEO used to support your own analysis
An MLA Works Cited page to list outside sources and the novel
Due Date: __________________
In-class Drafting Days: _______________________________________________________________________
Media Lab Days: ____________________________________________________________________________