Social Conflicts In The Great Gatsby By F. Scott Fitzgerald

Throughout the novel, The Great Gatsby, written by F. Scott Fitzgerald, the main conflict exists between three distinct social classes: the old-money, the new-money, and the no-money. Tom and Daisy Buchanan descend from old-money and, therefore, felt as if they should inherit certain rights. They believe that their birth gives them power, similar to the idea of divine right. New-money is represented by the character Jay Gatsby. While the source of his money is originally unknown, it is obvious to other characters in the novel that Gatsby lacks certain social abilities that are bred into the characters from old-money. Finally, the no-money class is displayed through George and Myrtle Wilson, for they have worked all their lives and are unable …show more content…
The Buchanans could be labeled with several unsavory characteristics: careless, materialistic, slothful, and even childish, in Daisy’s case. Most importantly, the Buchanans lack the ability to face the consequences of their actions. Daisy tells Nick, “I hope she 'll be a fool — that 's the best thing a girl can be in this world, a beautiful little fool . . . You see, I think everything 's terrible anyhow . . . And I know. I 've been everywhere and seen everything and done everything,” about the life she hopes for her daughter. Daisy doesn’t want her to have to make hard decisions. She wants her to live an easy life, in which she is oblivious to the real problems that surround her. Daisy has realized that the life she’s living doesn’t make her happy, but it’s easy for it is familiar. In addition, Tom can be described as perfidious for his infidelity. Neither he nor Daisy is satisfied with their marriage, but it is what is expected of them, so they continue to endure it. On the contrary, many of Gatsby’s characteristics conflict with each other. He is proud, yet he is self conscious; he is wealthy, yet he desires acceptance; he is lonely, yet he is surrounded by people. However, readers are certain of one sentiment throughout the novel: Gatsby is in love with Daisy. Most concerning, the actions that Gatsby commits in his journey to recapture Daisy’s heart. Gatsby is so infatuated with Daisy that he believes the end justifies the means. In other words, he doesn’t care how he accomplishes it as long as he receives his happy ending with Daisy. Finally, while both Gatsby and Myrtle follow the “end justifies means” philosophy, a great juxtaposition can be identified in relation to the actions and beliefs of George Wilson. Wilson’s character is stuck, trapped in his garage in the Valley of Ashes. He survives in a lifeless and unnoticeable existence.