Scott Fitzgerald is a literary icon known for his fiery wit, unique prose style, and keen observations about the American Dream. As an educator, teaching students about Scott Fitzgerald can be a rewarding experience that opens their minds to a whole new world of ideas and perspectives. This article aims to provide a comprehensive approach to teaching students about Fitzgerald’s life, works, and lasting impact on literature.
I. Introducing F. Scott Fitzgerald
A great way to introduce students to Scott Fitzgerald is by starting with a brief overview of his life and times. Born on September 24, 1896, in St. Paul, Minnesota, Fitzgerald lived during the Jazz Age – a time of unprecedented economic growth, cultural changes, and carefree excess.
Discuss the major events of his life, such as his strained relationship with his salesman father, his attendance at prestigious schools like Princeton University where he wrote for the Triangle Club, or how he met his future wife Zelda Sayre at an Alabama military base.
II. The Works of F. Scott Fitzgerald
Once students have been given some background knowledge on Fitzgerald’s life, it’s time to dive into his works – from short stories like “Bernice Bobs Her Hair” or “The Diamond as Big as the Ritz,” to famous novels such as Tender is the Night and The Great Gatsby.
While studying his writings, encourage students to pay attention to common themes that run throughout his body of work: romantic idealism vs. disillusionment, social class divisions in American society, materialism vs. spirituality, and the fleeting nature of youth and beauty.
III. Writing Style and Literary Devices
Fitzgerald was renowned for his unique writing style marked by poetic language, evocative imagery, and deliciously descriptive metaphors. Spend some time examining these aspects together with your students; try highlighting memorable passages from his work and ask students to identify and discuss the literary devices employed.
IV. The Great Gatsby: A Case Study
Arguably Fitzgerald’s most famous novel, The Great Gatsby offers a rich opportunity for engaging and thought-provoking discussions with students. Guide them to explore the book’s characters, such as Jay Gatsby, Daisy Buchanan, and Tom Buchanan, and how their actions reflect or contradict the themes mentioned earlier.
Additionally, discuss the symbolism found throughout the novel, such as the green light at the end of Daisy’s dock or Dr. T.J. Eckleburg’s eyes on the billboard over the valley of ashes. Assessing these symbols can foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for Fitzgerald’s work.
V. Historical Context & Impact on Society
Teaching students about Scott Fitzgerald would be incomplete without exploring the historical context of his works. Discuss the socio-political climate of the 1920s when many Americans struggled to balance newfound prosperity and liberty with old-world values and traditions.
Finally, assess Fitzgerald’s lasting impact on American literature and how his insights into human nature still resonate with readers today.
Conclusion
Incorporating these elements into your lesson plan will provide a well-rounded education on F. Scott Fitzgerald that engages and enlightens your students while fostering an appreciation for a truly remarkable author. By exploring his life, works, writing style, historical context, and lasting influence on literature, students can truly appreciate one of America’s greatest literary minds.
