Question

part 2: during reading questions

1. in this chapter somebody comes to gatsby’s and starts asking questions. what does he ask about?

a reporter and he ask about his past

1. what does this interaction reveal about gatsby and his social status?

Explanation:

Question 1

In "The Great Gatsby", a reporter visits Gatsby to ask about his past, specifically regarding rumors of his wealth, background (like being an Oxford man, his supposed exploits), and the nature of his parties. The reporter’s inquiry stems from the public’s curiosity and the mystery surrounding Gatsby’s identity, as his sudden rise to wealth and lavish lifestyle spark speculation.

This interaction reveals Gatsby’s ambiguous social status. His wealth and parties make him a subject of public fascination (suggesting he has entered the realm of public interest, like a celebrity), yet the reporter’s questions also highlight the uncertainty around his origins. Gatsby’s inability to fully control his narrative (or the rumors) shows he is not part of the established, old-money elite—his status is new, fragile, and built on mystery. The fact that a reporter feels compelled to investigate him implies his status is not fully legitimate or accepted by the traditional social order, even as he garners attention.

Answer:

A reporter comes to Gatsby’s and asks about his past (including rumors of his wealth, background, and the nature of his parties, driven by public curiosity about his mysterious identity and lavish lifestyle).

Question 2