F. Scott Fitzgerald: The Great Gatsby/Tender is the Night

Nicolas Tredell's examination of The Great Gatsby and Tender is the Night is a rare critical look at two of F. Scott Fitzgerald's most important texts, side by side. While the two novels have often been interpreted, rarely are they read in tandem, as this study does. Insightful, intelligent and thought-provoking, this study provides fascinating contexts within which new dimensions of both novels are brought to the fore, in light of each other.' - Stephanie Smith, University of Florida, USA

This stimulating study takes a fresh look at two of Fitzgerald's major texts. Part I uses carefully selected short extracts for close textual analysis, while Part II examines the historical and literary contexts and key criticism. The volume is an ideal introductory guide for those who are studying Fitzgerald's work for the first time.The Great Gatsby and Tender is the Night are F. Scott Fitzgerald's best-known novels. They draw on Fitzgerald's own vivid experiences in the 1920s but transform them into art. This stimulating introductory guide analyses their accomplished style and their concern with the promise and perplexity of modern life. Part I of this indispensable study: - Provides interesting and informed close readings of key passages - Examines how each novel starts and ends - Discusses key themes of society, money, gender and trauma - Outlines the methods of analysis and offers suggestions for further work. Part II supplies essential background material, including: - An account of Fitzgerald's life - A survey of historical, cultural and literary contexts - Samples of significant criticism Also featuring a helpful Further Reading section, this volume equips readers with the critical and analytical skills which will enable them to enjoy and explore both novels for themselves.