Requirements

• Develop a clear, debatable thesis that takes a stance on how Gatsby's idealism contributes to his downfall.
• Incorporate at least three pieces of textual evidence, including one major symbol (e.g., the green light, the Valley of Ashes, the eyes of Doctor T. J. Eckleburg).
• Analyze Fitzgerald's use of Nick Carraway as narrator and how his perspective influences the reader's understanding of Gatsby.
• Address a counterargument: consider whether Gatsby's dream is more admirable than destructive.
• Conclude by linking Gatsby's fate to Fitzgerald's broader commentary on American society in the 1920s.

Requirements

• Formulate a clear, arguable thesis that goes beyond just summarizing the plot.
• Include at least three pieces of textual evidence, with proper citations.
• Consider at least one counterargument (for instance, viewing Gatsby's ambition as admirable or a hallmark of the American spirit) and refute it.
• Wrap up by linking Fitzgerald's critique to a wider theme concerning society, identity, or the nature of desire.

Write a well-organized essay in which you argue whether Fitzgerald portrays the American Dream as inherently unattainable, morally corrupting, or both. Use specific evidence from the novel — including characterization, symbolism (like the green light, the Valley of Ashes, and the eyes of Doctor T. J. Eckleburg), and narrative perspective — to support your argument.

Guiding Questions to Consider

• What does the American Dream signify for Gatsby, Tom, Daisy, and Nick? Do they each pursue the same version of it?
• How does Fitzgerald use setting and symbolism to emphasize his critique of wealth and ambition?
• In what way does Nick Carraway's narration influence the reader's moral assessment of the other characters?
• Does the novel hint at any possibility of a genuine or redeemable version of the American Dream, or is it dismissed entirely?

Requirements

• Develop a clear, defensible thesis that presents a specific claim about Fitzgerald's critique.
• Integrate at least three pieces of textual evidence with analysis.
• Address at least one counterargument and refute or complicate it.
• Suggested length: 4–6 paragraphs (or as directed by your teacher).