Which philosophical concern of Modernism does Fitzgerald's writing MOST depict?

Which philosophical concern of Modernism does Fitzgerald's writing MOST depict?

• A. Skepticism of national progress.
• B. Faith in inevitable progress.
• C. Absolute certainty of cultural destiny.
• D. Unwavering belief in stable national identity.

Answer: (A)

Modernism often doubts that outward progress automatically means meaningful improvement for society. Fitzgerald embodies this by showing a glittering surface of growth and opportunity—the Jazz Age, wealth, and rapid change—while exposing deeper moral emptiness and social instability. In The Great Gatsby, the dream of progress and success is undercut by careless behavior, corruption, and a pervasive sense that material advancement doesn’t bring genuine happiness or justice. This tension—prosperity on the surface but disillusionment beneath—highlights skepticism about national progress as a guiding faith. The other options imagine progress as inevitable, certain, or stable; Fitzgerald instead emphasizes the uneasy, ambiguous character of modern life, where progress often feels hollow.

Modernism often doubts that outward progress automatically means meaningful improvement for society. Fitzgerald embodies this by showing a glittering surface of growth and opportunity—the Jazz Age, wealth, and rapid change—while exposing deeper moral emptiness and social instability. In The Great Gatsby, the dream of progress and success is undercut by careless behavior, corruption, and a pervasive sense that material advancement doesn’t bring genuine happiness or justice. This tension—prosperity on the surface but disillusionment beneath—highlights skepticism about national progress as a guiding faith. The other options imagine progress as inevitable, certain, or stable; Fitzgerald instead emphasizes the uneasy, ambiguous character of modern life, where progress often feels hollow.