The document provides historical context about the 1920s time period known by nicknames like "The Roaring 20s" and "The Jazz Age". It suggests the period was defined by post-WWI euphoria, disregard for pre-war values, financial freedom, and a feeling that one could achieve the American Dream of success through hard work. However, it argues this optimism was founded on little that was real as society was becoming morally bankrupt with no solid values following the death and loss of the war. It then outlines a reading schedule to discuss F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel The Great Gatsby over five days.

1. The Great Gatsby Historical Context & Study Schedule

2. The 1920’s: Nicknames The Roaring 20’s The Jazz Age The Flapper Era The Aspirin Age The Age of Wonderful Nonsense What do these nicknames suggest about the time period?

3. 1920’s Context

4. Post WWI Physical & Spiritual Euphoria & Freedom Disregard for Pre-War Values Financial Freedom: - Low interest / buying on credit - Stock market growth - Relative luxury for common people

5. Implications for the 1920’s “ I can do anything” feeling (success-wise, morality-wise) Resurgence of the “American Dream” that brought immigrants to America in the first place: “ If you put your mind to something and work hard, you can have whatever you want (money, success, fame) even if you start with nothing.”

6. Therefore, the 1920’s feel was: Optimism Freedom Celebration Positive feeling about the promises & potential of new life and new values

7. BUT… Upon what were all of these great feelings actually founded?

8. Answer: nothing “real” Death of family & friends in War Fewer jobs as Wartime production over Women competing for jobs Things owned / bought with “virtual money” (stocks / credit & debt) Morally bankrupt society; no solid values (carefree, silly, fun)

9. The American Dream… … a misleading illusion:

10. The Great Gatsby: Geography

11. The Great Gatsby: Geography

12. Gatsby Reading Schedule Gatsby Day 1: Chapters 1-3 Gatsby Day 2 : Chapters 4-5 Gatsby Day 3 : Chapters 6-7 Gatsby Day 4 : Chapters 8-9 Gatsby Day 5 : Gatsby Test & Film

13. Related Handouts Gatsby Biography / Book Review Gatsby Essay Topics Getting into The Great Gatsby Chapter Questions

14. Enjoy The Great Gatsby!