Numerous examples of values, or lack of values (which
amounts to values) abound in The Great Gatsby that you can tab (try
sticky notes or even a small piece of paper to mark each page; use the sticky note
upside down with the top half extended out of the top of the book--this creates a
tab).
In chapter one when Nick the narrator introduces the
character, Tom, the description reveals that Tom values physical power and inherited
money--lots of it. His idea of glory is found in athletic feats and pompous displays of
wealth.
When Jordan tells Nick about her driving, she says
that she is a careless driver who depends on other drivers to watch out for her. Jordan
is careless, self-centered, and extremely egocentric. She values
herself.
Gatsby values the recapturing of his relationship
with Daisy above all else. He has a dream of the brief relationship he had with Daisy,
and the value in anything or anyone else is only relevant to him as it contributes to
his quest to recapture Daisy. At the same time, he is basically a giver, not a taker.
He is extremely polite and considerate, and is uncomfortable receiving anything from
others--notice how he offers Nick work when Nick is going to help him meet Daisy.
Gatsby is uncomfortable with others doing things for him. He also replaces a dress for
a party guest, even though doing so has nothing to do with his quest to recapture
Daisy.
Those are some examples of passages you could tab
in preparation for your next class. Your teacher, I think, wants you to be able to
point to passages that reveal values, probably for a class
discussion.
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