What is the purpose of the prologue in The Great Gatsby?

Answer 1

It gives us insight into the character of Nick Carraway. Knowing the background of the narrator creates a sense of trust and this then makes us believe more of what he will tell us later on in the novel. It also gives reasons for some of his judgments and actions he makes/does later on in the story. Without a prologue the story would jump too quickly and the prologue is instrumental in providing us with reasons, easing us into the story of the 'Great Gatsby'.

Answer 2

The prologue in The Great Gatsby sets the tone for the novel by introducing the themes of wealth, social class, and the American Dream. It also provides a glimpse into the mysterious and enigmatic nature of Jay Gatsby, the central character of the story. Additionally, the prologue foreshadows the complex relationships and events that unfold throughout the novel.

Answer 3

To show the effects and powers of consumerism, class division, decadence, the American Dream and loss of religion in 1920s society.

Answer 4

It is almost a chronicle of F. Scott Fitzgerald's life. The character Jay Gatsby was based on the author of the novel, and had the same aspirations out of life as the character Gatsby.

Answer 5

To criticize the moral decay of American society