Keyword Guide · chapter-summary
Chapter 8 marks the emotional turning point of The Great Gatsby. It reveals Gatsby’s past, shows the consequences of the novel’s conflicts, and sets up the tragic conclusion.
Nick spends time with Gatsby the morning after the accident. Gatsby explains his history with Daisy, including how their relationship began and why he believes she still loves him. Meanwhile, George Wilson becomes increasingly unstable as he searches for the person responsible for Myrtle’s death. The chapter ends with Gatsby’s death in his pool, followed shortly by Wilson’s suicide.
Gatsby’s memories show that his dream of Daisy has remained unchanged for years. He idealizes her as a symbol of a perfect future rather than a real person. This helps explain why he waits for Daisy’s call and refuses to accept that she has chosen Tom.
Chapter 8 emphasizes the danger of idealized dreams. Gatsby’s loyalty contrasts with Daisy’s silence, reinforcing the theme of illusion versus reality. The chapter also explores moral responsibility, as careless choices by others lead to irreversible consequences.
This chapter delivers the novel’s climax. Gatsby’s death represents the collapse of the American Dream as he imagined it. For exams and essays, focus on how Fitzgerald connects Gatsby’s past dreams to his tragic end.
Gatsby wants Nick to understand his devotion to Daisy and why he believes their love is worth waiting for, even after everything has gone wrong.
George Wilson kills Gatsby, believing him to be responsible for Myrtle’s death, before taking his own life.
The collapse of idealized dreams is central, showing how Gatsby’s hopes are destroyed by reality and other characters’ actions.
Continue in App
Need fast chapter summaries, theme breakdowns, and quiz prep? Download Readi.AI on iOS to review The Great Gatsby and other classics anytime.
