Person: F. Scott Fitzgerald
Age Group(s): Owlys (15-18)
Hello, Teachers!
PREDICTION / BRAINSTORMING FOR STUDENTS
1. What do you think makes someone a great writer? List some qualities or experiences that might help a person become a successful author.
2. Imagine you lived in America during the 1920s. What do you think life would be like? What kinds of things might people do for fun?
WHAT STUDENTS WILL LEARN
1. Understand the life and literary contributions of F. Scott Fitzgerald
2. Analyze the concept of the American Dream and its portrayal in literature
3. Explore the historical context of the Jazz Age and its impact on society
4. Develop critical thinking skills by examining the complexities of Fitzgerald’s life andworks
5. Identify the challenges faced by writers and artists in pursuing their passions
6. Recognize the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity
7. Understand the concept of social class and its influence on personal relationships
8. Explore the impact of historical events (such as World War I) on individuals and society
9. Analyze the relationship between an author’s life experiences and their literary works
10. Develop empathy by considering different perspectives and life circumstances
KEYWORDS
F. Scott Fitzgerald, American literature, Jazz Age, The Great Gatsby, This Side of Paradise, Zelda Fitzgerald, American Dream, social class, World War I, Princeton University, alcoholism, Hollywood,
screenwriting, perseverance, literary analysis, critical thinking
A QUICK SUMMARY
F. Scott Fitzgerald was a prominent American author of the 20th century, born in 1896 in St. Paul, Minnesota. His life and works exemplify the complexities of navigating personal ambitions, societal expectations, and the pursuit of the American Dream. Fitzgerald’s early life was marked by a mix of genteel poverty and affluence, which influenced his keen awareness of social status.
Fitzgerald’s talent for writing was recognized early, and he honed his skills during his time at Princeton University. His college years were formative, introducing him to fellow writers and artists while also presenting academic challenges. After a brief stint in the army during World War I, Fitzgerald met Zelda Sayre, who would become his wife and muse
The 1920s, known as the Jazz Age, saw Fitzgerald rise to fame with the publication of “This Side of Paradise” and later, his masterpiece “The Great Gatsby.” These works captured the spirit of the era while offering profound critiques of its excesses and moral ambiguities. Despite his literary success, Fitzgerald faced personal and professional challenges, including struggles with alcoholism and his wife’s mental health issues.
In his later years, Fitzgerald moved to Hollywood to work as a screenwriter, continuing to write despite setbacks. His life and works offer valuable lessons in perseverance, critical thinking, and the courage to confront life’s complexities.
Please remember that the content below is for guidance only and that the students need to do their own research about the person.
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