Jay Gatsby

Mysterious neighbor in West Egg who owns an opulent mansion and is noted for his hopeful romantic nature. Gatsby appears, introduces himself to Nick, reveals he is the host, owns a hydroplane, has a butler who receives a call from Chicago, and promises a hydroplane outing. Gatsby shares an elaborate (likely false) personal history, claiming Oxford education, wartime heroics in the Argonne, a Montenegro decoration, and possession of a medal and a Trinity Quad photograph. Gatsby’s house is fully illuminated; he offers Nick a side‑business, discusses cutting grass, reveals his inheritance, past involvement in drug and oil trades, displays extensive shirt collection, and reacts emotionally to Daisy’s presence. Expanded backstory revealing his original name James Gatz, his youth on Lake Superior, mentorship by Dan Cody, inheritance, and false rumors. Gatsby is discovered dead in his house; Nick handles the aftermath and funeral arrangements.