THE GREAT GATSBY Chapter 2:

Daisy & Myrtle

Compare and contrast Daisy Buchanan and Myrtle Wilson in the chart below.
Then, answer the questions that follow.

Daisy Buchanan Myrtle Wilson

DIFFERENCES: DIFFERENCES:
1. Born into wealth. 1. She is from the Valley of
2. Skinny body and beautiful. Ashes.
3. Unaware. 2. Notable immorality.
4. Extrovert. 3. Acts rude or mean around
5. Takes no action regarding Tom.
Tom's infidelity. 4. Thicker body.
5. She wants Tom for herself.
SIMILARITIES:
1. Neither of them are happy in their marriage.
2. They both want a comfortable life when it comes to money.
3. Both are superficial.
4. They are both in toxic and abusive relationships with Tom.

Analysis Questions

Given the above information, why do you think Tom is attracted to Myrtle?
Why is Myrtle attracted to Tom? Explain.
I believe Tom is drawn to Myrtle's physique or body, as well as the image she
presents to others. Fitzgerald mentions in her book that she "she carried her
surplus of flesh sensuously as some women can". This may hint at Tom's
superficial view of Myrtle.
Daisy and Myrtle are both named after flowers. Do a Google search of both
flowers (make sure to look at images), and then explain why Fitzgerald might
have named Daisy and Myrtle after these particular flowers.
Daisy flower petals represent an outward appearance of purity and innocence,
in contrast to the yellow center, which demonstrates Daisy's corruption due to
her materialism and desire for wealth. The other flower, myrtle, stands in
stark contrast to the delicate beauty and ephemerality of the daisy.