What is the historical context of The Great Gatsby?

What is the historical context of The Great Gatsby?

The Great Gatsby is set in the 1920s, a period known as the Roaring Twenties, characterized by economic prosperity, cultural change, and social upheaval.

How did the 1920s influence the characters in the novel?

The characters are shaped by the era's materialism and social dynamics, reflecting the pursuit of the American Dream and the disillusionment that followed.

What major events from the 1920s are referenced in the book?

Key events include the Prohibition, the rise of jazz music, and the stock market boom, all of which influence the characters' lifestyles.

How does Fitzgerald portray the American Dream in the novel?

Fitzgerald critiques the American Dream by showing its unattainability for characters like Gatsby, highlighting the gap between wealth and true happiness.