The Great Gatsby Symbolism Essay
Assignment Overview
Write a 5-paragraph analytical essay (approximately 750-900 words) that examines how F. Scott Fitzgerald uses three different symbols in The Great Gatsby to develop deeper meaning and enhance the novel's central themes.
Essay Prompt
Analyze how Fitzgerald employs symbolism throughout The Great Gatsby. Select three different symbols from the novel and examine how each one contributes to Fitzgerald's overall message about wealth, morality, and the corruption of American ideals.
Symbol Options (Choose 3):
ine breen upne
The Eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg The Valley of Ashes Cars/Automobiles
arcos manson
The Clock (that Gatsby knocks over)
East Egg vs. West Egg The Weather/Seasons
Colors (green, white, yellow/gold)
Gatsby's Shirts
Essay Requirements
Structure:
Introduction Paragraph: Engaging hook, brief context about the novel, and thesis statement that identifies your three chosen symbols and their collective significance
Body Paragraph 1: Analysis of your first symbol with textual evidence
Body Paragraph 2: Analysis of your second symbol with textual evidence
Body Paragraph 3: Analysis of your third symbol with textual evidence
Conclusion Paragraph: Synthesize how all three symbols work together to support Fitzgerald's message about American society.
Content Requirements:
One direct quote or specific textual reference per body paragraph (minimum 3 total)
Clear analysis of what each symbol represents beyond its literal meaning
Connection of each symbol to larger themes (American Dream, moral decay, class conflict, etc.
Discussion of how the three symbols work together to create Fitzgerald's overall critique
Proper MLA format for citations (since our book does not include page numbers, please use the author's last name and the chapter number) Ex: (Fitzgerald 1).
Key Questions to Consider: :
What does each symbol literally represent vs. what it symbolically suggests?
How do these three symbols relate to each other thematically?
What is Fitzgerald saying about 1920s America through these symbols?
How do different characters interact with or perceive these symbols?
What common message do your three symbols convey about wealth, morality, or society?
Writing Tips Choose symbols that connect:
Select three symbols that relate to a common theme or message
Balance your analysis: Give roughly equal attention to each symbol •
Go beyond identification: Don't just say what each symbol represents-analyze how and why Fitzgerald uses it
Show relationships: In your conclusion, explain how your three symbols work together
Use transitions: Connect your body paragraphs to show the relationship between symbols