Gatsby Essay: Test In what way does Gatsby represent the American Dream and what does this say about Fitzgerald’s perception of the dream in the 20s and 30s? In what way do the themes of dreams, wealth and time relate to America at the time?
In the story The Great Gatsby, by F. Scott Fitzgerald, many themes and messages are portrayed through the character of Jay Gatsby. The American Dream is the idea that everyone should have equal opportunities Fitzgerald reinforces the idea of the American Dream through the characters in the book as well, through the author’s life, the time period in which it was set and how it compares to other stories Fitzgerald has written. The main message that Fitzgerald conveys is that the American Dream is corrupt. …show more content…
The theme of class is first demonstrated at the beginning of the story when Nick explains where he lives, saying, “I lived at the West Egg, the - well, the less fashionable of the two,”, (Fitzgerald, pg.22). As well, Nick describes The Valley of Ashes as, “a fantastic farm where ashes grow like wheat into ridges and chimneys and rising smoke”, “dismal scene” and “unprosperous”, (Fitzgerald, p.35). Nick’s description of The Valley of Ashes creates a clear distinction between classes. This corrupts the idea of the American Dream as it is supposed to create equal opportunities for everyone. Although Gatsby achieves what many people strive for, he is never actually accepted by other wealthy people. Tom constantly tries to downplay Gatsby’s accomplishments or displays of wealth because it is implied that since he is from East …show more content…
Once again, the class distinction causes the idea of the American Dream and equal opportunities to be damaged. The message that the American Dream is corrupt can be supported through Fitzgerald’s life and how he dealt with class distinction. Throughout Fitzgerald’s life, he worked extremely hard with the idea that he had the opportunity to become rich and successful. However, Fitzgerald never experienced major success while he was alive and since he worked so hard and remained in the lower classes, his view on the American Dream must have become corrupt, similar to how it is made seem in the book. As well, it is clear that Fitzgerald sees alcohol as bad which can be seen through his and the Lost Decade, where the affects of alcoholism are clearly outlined. Gatsby is never seen drinking but the other people at his parties are always drinking and take advantage of Gatsby’s belongings and generous nature. As well, during the prohibition, the only people able to buy alcohol were rich people because it was illegal, indicating that it was morally wrong to drink. Emphasizing and symbolizing the corruption that is evident within the higher classes of society. Gatsby constantly
In the story The Great Gatsby, by F. Scott Fitzgerald, many themes and messages are portrayed through the character of Jay Gatsby. The American Dream is the idea that everyone should have equal opportunities Fitzgerald reinforces the idea of the American Dream through the characters in the book as well, through the author’s life, the time period in which it was set and how it compares to other stories Fitzgerald has written. The main message that Fitzgerald conveys is that the American Dream is corrupt. …show more content…
The theme of class is first demonstrated at the beginning of the story when Nick explains where he lives, saying, “I lived at the West Egg, the - well, the less fashionable of the two,”, (Fitzgerald, pg.22). As well, Nick describes The Valley of Ashes as, “a fantastic farm where ashes grow like wheat into ridges and chimneys and rising smoke”, “dismal scene” and “unprosperous”, (Fitzgerald, p.35). Nick’s description of The Valley of Ashes creates a clear distinction between classes. This corrupts the idea of the American Dream as it is supposed to create equal opportunities for everyone. Although Gatsby achieves what many people strive for, he is never actually accepted by other wealthy people. Tom constantly tries to downplay Gatsby’s accomplishments or displays of wealth because it is implied that since he is from East …show more content…
Once again, the class distinction causes the idea of the American Dream and equal opportunities to be damaged. The message that the American Dream is corrupt can be supported through Fitzgerald’s life and how he dealt with class distinction. Throughout Fitzgerald’s life, he worked extremely hard with the idea that he had the opportunity to become rich and successful. However, Fitzgerald never experienced major success while he was alive and since he worked so hard and remained in the lower classes, his view on the American Dream must have become corrupt, similar to how it is made seem in the book. As well, it is clear that Fitzgerald sees alcohol as bad which can be seen through his and the Lost Decade, where the affects of alcoholism are clearly outlined. Gatsby is never seen drinking but the other people at his parties are always drinking and take advantage of Gatsby’s belongings and generous nature. As well, during the prohibition, the only people able to buy alcohol were rich people because it was illegal, indicating that it was morally wrong to drink. Emphasizing and symbolizing the corruption that is evident within the higher classes of society. Gatsby constantly