American Literature
Assignment sheet #4: Modernism
M. D'Antonio
Each reading / writing assignment is due on the date listed below. Remember that there may be
unannounced reading quizzes. Feel free to read ahead, but always review the assigned reading before
class. You must bring your text to class with you. The questions that accompany each assignment will
guide your reading and prepare you for class discussion.
December 16
Introduction to Modernism and Fitzgerald
Read packet on Modernism
Start Gatsby in class
January 3
Read Gatsby Chapter I (1-21)
Evaluate the narration of Nick Carraway. Is he trustworthy?
What do you think of East Egg society as represented by the Buchanans and Jordan Baker?
January 4
Read Gatsby Chapters II-III (23-59)
What might be the meaning of the valley of ashes and the eyes of T.J. Eckleburg?
Is Gatsby what you expected? Why or why not?
January 6
Vocabulary quiz #11 [curmudgeon-delectation]
Read Gatsby Chapter IV (61-80)
What are some aspects of Gatsby that make him both admired by and repulsive to Nick?
January 9
Read Gatsby Chapters V-VI (81-111)
Distribute take-home essay assignment
What are some of the conflicts that threaten the renewed relationship between Gatsby and Daisy?
January 10
Read Gatsby Chapter VII (113-145)
Why would Tom allow Gatsby to take Daisy home?
January 11
Read Gatsby Chapters VIII-IX (147-180)
Take home essay due
Think about Gatsby’s love for Daisy and his dreams. How are they related? What might
Fitzgerald be saying about the American dream through Gatsby?
January 13
Vocabulary quiz #12 [deleterious-dichotomy]
Gatsby film
January 17
Final exam review
Thanks for a great semester! Good luck next term. I’ll miss you!