Classical literature has become increasingly controversial in American classrooms as teachers and students alike question the importance and advantages of reading older novels. Despite arguments, some teachers and students argue that classical books, like “The Great Gatsby”, are essential for the American school system. “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald should remain in American public high school curriculums because the novel provides relatable life lessons for young students and improves students' analytical and writing skills.
“The Great Gatsby” should be studied in American public high schools because it explores significant and relatable lessons for students in classrooms. Through the fascinating plot and characters, Fitzgerald
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Great Gatsby’s characters, on the surface, seem blatantly selfish and insensitive but examining their deeper motives reveals the complexities of the characters and the reality of human behavior. F. Scott Fitzgerald’s unique life lesson is essential in the American school curriculum because it teaches empathy and understanding to young students. After all, interpersonal skills have become a necessity for students’ future success just as much as academics. Within the novel itself, Jay Gatsby reflects that “[he] usually finds [himself] among strangers because [he] drifts here and there trying to forget the sad things that happened to [him]” (Fitzgerald 67). Despite Gatsby’s enormous wealth and glamorous parties, Gatsby struggles to find happiness due to his desperate search for love. Ultimately, Fitzgerald teaches that money doesn’t buy happiness. Although historically related to the 1920s luxurious lifestyle, this message is also increasingly …show more content…
Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel, “The Great Gatsby,” should continue being taught in American high schools because the intense literature analysis allows students to practice analytical and literary skills. “The Great Gatsby” is filled with intense symbolism, like the eyes of TJ Eckleburg or Daisy’s green light, to push readers to see a deeper meaning than just what’s on the surface. These critical thinking skills are essential for students inside the classroom for literature and academics but also crucial for developing problem-solving skills they can use in their future careers. In a radio station interview with Steve Almond, an American writer, the host discusses the unique structure of “The Great Gatsby” and describes Nick Carraway’s omnipresent narration as readers being “in communion with another mind” (Source B). Fitzgerald’s decision to provide an outsider's point of view pushes readers to gain a new perspective of the characters. Nick Carraway allows readers to gain a new perspective and practice their literary analysis by viewing Jay Gatsby through a unique lens. Despite the interesting plot and extravagant lifestyles in the novel, some students and teachers still claim that “The Great Gatsby” is outdated and overused in classroom settings. In comparison, teacher Chase Mielke argues that “The Great Gatsby” can be used in classrooms in cooperation with more modern novels, like “Great” by Sara Benincasa, and reflects that “even doing a side-by-side comparison …