The Great Gatsby and F. Scott Fitzgerald: Biography, Historical Background, the American Dream, and related nonfiction

This video clip explores the end of the house that may have inspired Fitzgerald's writing.

In order to appreciate historical fiction, students need to understand the factual context and recognize how popular culture reflects the values, mores, and events of the time period. Since a newspaper records significant events and attitudes representative of a period, students create their own newspapers utilizing primary source materials from the American Memory collections

(11:42) and (8:50)
Author John Green presents analysis and commentary on the novel in a manner designed to appeal to both students and their teachers. These YouTube videos are downloadable.

How did the instant celebrity of Charles Lindbergh after his 1927 transatlantic flight reflect Americans' values in the Twenties? Lesson includes student handouts, background information, close reading questions, vocabulary, and a follow-up assignment.

This New York Times article suggests a reason for Tom's behavior. Does it also explain Daisy? A good companion piece for pre- or post-reading.

This simulation from the McCord Museum of Canadian History in Montreal, Quebec, invites students to choose a role (male or female) and learn the ins and outs of the Twenties. Headsets recommended.

Nonfiction piece: a letter F. Scott Fitzgerald wrote to his 11-year-old daughter, "Scottie," who was away at camp. Possible writing assignment: what letter might Tom/Nick/Gatsby send to a daughter?

A good nonfiction background article on the mansions from the Twenties. Locates East and West Egg on Long Island.