Set 8: Central Ideas (Intermediate)
Explanation
PASSAGE
The following text analyzes a symbol in F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel. In *The Great Gatsby*, the green light situated at the end of Daisy Buchanan's dock represents Gatsby's unattainable dream of the future. It is a beacon of hope for Gatsby, signifying his desire to reclaim the past and win Daisy's love. However, as the novel progresses, the green light loses its enchantment, transforming from a symbol of infinite possibility into a mere physical object, reflecting the disillusionment of the American Dream.
How does the symbolism of the green light change throughout the novel, according to the text?
Detailed Explanation
Choice B is the best answer. The text states that the green light is initially a 'beacon of hope' representing Gatsby's dream. It then says that 'as the novel progresses... [it] transforming from a symbol of infinite possibility into a mere physical object.' This transition from hope to a mundane object is accurately captured in Choice B.
Choice C is incorrect because the text never describes it as a warning signal.
Choice A is incorrect because while Gatsby is wealthy, the text specifically links the light to his 'unattainable dream' and 'hope,' not just wealth, and notes that the meaning changes.
Choice D is incorrect because the text does not mention a color change.
Key Evidence:
• "beacon of hope"
• "transforming from a symbol of infinite possibility into a mere physical object"
Why others are wrong: C (Unsupported - text does not mention warning), A (Incomplete - ignores the change described), D (Factually incorrect - text does not mention color change).
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