The Great Gatsby explores themes of deception, superficiality, and the failure of the American Dream through Nick Carraway's narration of Jay Gatsby's pursuit of wealth and love.
• Deception in The Great Gatsby manifests through multiple characters, particularly Gatsby's fabricated past and identity
• The novel critiques superficiality in The Great Gatsby through lavish parties and shallow relationships
• The failure of the American Dream in The Great Gatsby is symbolized through the Valley of Ashes and Gatsby's ultimate fate
• Key symbols include the green light, Doctor T.J. Eckleburg's eyes, and Gatsby's mansion
• The narrative explores class divisions between old and new money through the East and West Egg settings
