Discuss the effectiveness of the opening chapter of Fitzgerald’s ‘the Great Gatsby’.

Review of essay

Rating: 5 star(s)

Response to the question

This question engages superbly with the question. There are numerous paragraphs analysing the techniques used in the first chapter, always referring back to why they make it effective. I liked how they defined what an effective first chapter is, however this could be slightly more sophisticated. For example, when talking about the "feel", I would've spoken about a genre. Instead of simply mentioning characters, I would've explored Nick's introduction as a narrator. To make the introduction slightly stronger, it would've been wise to summarise the main techniques Fitzgerald uses to ensure the introduction doesn't feel detached too much from the context of the book.

Level of analysis

The analysis in this essay is strong, as it always gives evidence for a technique, and then analyses its effect and the consequence on the narrative. It was nice to see this, compared to some essays which think analysis is as easy as retelling the plot! The breadth of analysis is great, but I would note that to get top marks it would be wise to cut some of this down. Yes, you want to include as much analysis as possible, but with the length of this essay it is clear that it loses focus at points. This is evident when the analysis of the technique focuses on what the reader learns, yet loses that sharpness to link it back to the question and evaluate why it makes it effective. There are times when the analysis could be a bit more technical. When exploring the description of Tom, the essay quotes a few adverbs. If I was doing this essay, I would mention how the use of adverbs allows the reader to associate traits with Tom easily, allowing Fitzgerald to characterise him quickly in the first chapter. Language, setting, characters, structure and style are all explored with strength.

Quality of writing

This essay has a clear structure, with a strong introduction and conclusion. As mentioned earlier, I would personally cut down some of the points to ensure a concise argument. The style and sophistication of writing make this essay very convincing, and the way quotes are embedded allows the argument to flow nicely. Spelling, punctuation and grammar are flawless. Although there are a few improvements which still can be made, this essay should be admired at GCSE level!