How does the notion of the American Dream manifest through The Great Gatsby?

This is a fantastic question. Lots to get your teeth into. First of all - unpack the question. If you unpack the question you will know which way to take it. So what does the 'American Dream' really mean? And what is the Great Gatsby anyway? To start off, it would be useful to find out when the term 'American dream' was first coined, and when did the phrase become more popular? Does the popularity of the this phrase link with the context of Great Gatsby in any way? It could be useful to draw parallels within the first paragraph or introduction. Secondly, what do you understand contextually about The Great Gastby? E.g. When was it written, when was it set, who was it written by, do we know anything about the life of the author which will enable us to make connections between 'The Great Gatsby' and 'the American Dream'?I have a help-sheet available with prompts and contextual information. Feel free to request this to support with your 'question unpacking'!

LH
Answered by Lizzie H. English tutor

1369 Views

See similar English A Level tutors

Related English A Level answers

All answers ▸

How should I successfully engage with literary criticism to gain higher marks in my A Level responses?


Why do I need to learn context when studying English literature?


Explain the difference between synecdoche and metonymy.


How important is including historical context in an essay?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning