As F. Scott Fitzgerald's *The Great Gatsby* marks its 100th anniversary, educators discuss its continued relevance in classrooms. Teachers Alonzo Vereen and Alexandra Howes reflect on how the book's themes of wealth, identity, and race resonate differently today. Vereen, a Black man from the South, shares his initial struggles with the novel, citing the lack of relatable characters and problematic representations of race. Despite these challenges, both teachers emphasize the importance of contextualizing the novel, engaging students in discussions about its historical background, and drawing connections to contemporary issues.
Teaching a classic like *The Great Gatsby* requires addressing its historical context and its implications on race and identity, especially in contemporary classrooms.
There's a gap between Gatsby's glittering world and the experiences of many students today, making the book's relevance a challenging discussion.
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