Etymologically, modernism means an exaggerated love of what is modern, an infatuation for modern ideas. The term modernism is widely used to identify new and distinctive features in the subjects, forms, concepts, and styles of literature and the other arts in the early decades of the present century, but especially after World War I. A wide variety of new and experimental forms and techniques arose in architecture, dance, literature, music, painting, and sculpture.
B. They novel The Great Gatsby reflects this style of "modernist- writing, as well as the characters in the novel. .
II. Characters.
A. Jay Gatsby.
1. Represents the perfect modernist hero.
2. He belongs to the lost generation of WW1.
3. Has a dream that is torn and deferred.
A. In love with Daisy and goes to great lengths to impress her.
4. The hero is not a real hero.
a. Although he is the hero of the novel, he has no heroic characteristics; in fact nothing he does comes close to heroic. .
5. Characteristics.
a. Dedicated.
b. Loyal.
c. Determined.
` d. Good hearted.
.
B. Nick Carraway.
1. Narrator.
2. Represents Fitzgerald's voice in the novel.
3. Gives the audience the realization of moral depletion in this era.
4. Characteristics.
a. Tolerant.
b. Open-minded.
c. Quiet.
d. Good listener.
.
C. Daisy.
1. Object of Gatsby's pursue.
2. Represents perfection to Gatsby.
a. Charm.
b. Wealth.
c. Sophistication.
d. Grace.
3. Actual Characteristics.
a. Shallowness.
b. Sardonic .
c. Bored.
.
D. Tom Buchanan.
1. Daisy's Husband.
2. Characteristics.
a. Hypocritical.
1. Having an affair yet expects other to uphold excellent moral standards.
b. Bully.
c. Racist.
d. Sexist.
E. Jordan Baker.
1. Characteristics.
1. Cynical.
2. Boyish.
3. Self-centered.
4. Dishonest.
5. Habitual liar.
2. Represents the "new woman- of the 20's.
a. Single.
b. Independent.
c. Sporty.
III. Conclusion.
Each of the characters and their traits represents the time and period.
