Name: ____________________________

The Great Gatsby - Theme Essay Outline

Context:
When people think of being lonely, usually they think of being alone. Sometimes
people can be lonely even in a crowded room.

Thesis:
Given this information, loneliness is a result of isolating oneself through not only
physical connections but also through emotional connections. This is especially true
in Fitzgeralds The Great Gatsby through Gatsby, Daisy, and Nick.

Quote (Character Gatsby):

Transition: To begin with,
Sentence Starter: According to Fitzgerald,
Quote: As [Mr. Gatz, the minister, and Nick] started through the gate into the
cemetery I heard a car stop and then the sound of someone splashing after usIt
was the owl-eyed glasses (183

Quote (Character Daisy):

Transition: In addition,
Sentence Starter: As illustrated in The Great Gatsby,
Quote: Even alone I cant say I never loved Tom, she admitted in a pitiful voice,
It wouldnt be true (140).

Quote (Character Nick):

Transition: Lastly,
Sentence Starter: For example in The Great Gatsby, Fitzgerald
Quote: It made no difference to me. Dishonesty in a woman is a thing you never
blame deeply I was casually sorry, and then I forgot (63).

Conclusion:
Restate Main Idea: In conclusion, The Great Gatsby presents the theme of
loneliness not only through physical isolation, but also through a lack of meaningful
relationships: Gatsbys, Daisys, and Nicks.

Name: ____________________________
Summary of Ideas: It is clear through these three characters that loneliness is a
result of poor choices and ones inability to trust another.