The role of women throughout, The Great Gatsby can be perceived in numerous ways. Whether it be the actions, personalities, or motives of the characters, an underlying theme of carelessness, and superficiality is portrayed. Throughout the course of the novel, The Great Gatsby by Scott F. Fitzgerald, readers are exposed to the unique role women play in society during the 1920’s. Fitzgerald’s depiction of the characters, Daisy, Jordan, and Myrtle illustrates the lack of women's status, in comparison to men during this time period, by highlighting their greed, selfishness, and incompetence.
Daisy Buchanan is one of the main characters, known for her exquisiteness and the effects it has upon the opposite sex. Her admirers are constant and …show more content…
Jordan herself is a careless driver, therefore it is quite ironic when she explains to Nick that she “hates careless people”. Fitzgerald use of this example of irony helps depict the absolute absurdity of the actions of women in the 1920’s. Jordan is judging others actions, while she is completing the action that she so very much “hates”. In no way is their true concern in her voice about her, or Nicks safety, whereas Nick appears to be the “adult” of the situation, making men appear as more superior in their judgment. Fitzgerald also uses Jordan's response to portray that women are not accountable for their actions. When Jordan says, “it take two to make an accident” she believes that she will never be at fault, because if an accident were to occur the blame is not solely upon herself, but another too. Ultimately, Jordan is taking a risk and living a life that is false to …show more content…
Daisy! Daisy!" shouted Mrs. Wilson. "I'll say it whenever I want to! Daisy! Dai –– "
Making a short deft movement, Tom Buchanan broke her nose with his open hand. (2.125-127)
Unlike the upper class women of the 1920’s Myrtle appears to be more openly defiant of men. In the example above she does not hesitate to say Daisy’s name, though she is warned by Tom not to. When she disobeys Tom he is quick to prove his point with physical strength, ultimately leading to Myrtles broken nose. Fitzgerald illustrates Tom’s use of violence to allow the readers to fully comprehend how men have the final word during the 1920’s, and the means in which they present their opinions are constantly justifiable. Whether it be through a violent action, like in the example above, or through verbal abuse.
The actions of Daisy, Jordan, and Myrtle reflect the persona of women during the 1920’s. Their superficial personalities, extravagant lives, and careless actions emphasize the stark comparison of men to women. All three women mentioned above are nothing more than accessories in a man's life. Waiting to be plucked, to live a life controlled by their husbands or societies standards. Whether it be Myrtle, who is abused by Tom due to her lack of complacency; Daisy, who is unable operate without the constant judgment by Gatsby or Tom ; or Jordan who replicates the incompetence and carefree manner of 1920’s women, all three women are unable to see a future filled with freedom and independence.
Daisy Buchanan is one of the main characters, known for her exquisiteness and the effects it has upon the opposite sex. Her admirers are constant and …show more content…
Jordan herself is a careless driver, therefore it is quite ironic when she explains to Nick that she “hates careless people”. Fitzgerald use of this example of irony helps depict the absolute absurdity of the actions of women in the 1920’s. Jordan is judging others actions, while she is completing the action that she so very much “hates”. In no way is their true concern in her voice about her, or Nicks safety, whereas Nick appears to be the “adult” of the situation, making men appear as more superior in their judgment. Fitzgerald also uses Jordan's response to portray that women are not accountable for their actions. When Jordan says, “it take two to make an accident” she believes that she will never be at fault, because if an accident were to occur the blame is not solely upon herself, but another too. Ultimately, Jordan is taking a risk and living a life that is false to …show more content…
Daisy! Daisy!" shouted Mrs. Wilson. "I'll say it whenever I want to! Daisy! Dai –– "
Making a short deft movement, Tom Buchanan broke her nose with his open hand. (2.125-127)
Unlike the upper class women of the 1920’s Myrtle appears to be more openly defiant of men. In the example above she does not hesitate to say Daisy’s name, though she is warned by Tom not to. When she disobeys Tom he is quick to prove his point with physical strength, ultimately leading to Myrtles broken nose. Fitzgerald illustrates Tom’s use of violence to allow the readers to fully comprehend how men have the final word during the 1920’s, and the means in which they present their opinions are constantly justifiable. Whether it be through a violent action, like in the example above, or through verbal abuse.
The actions of Daisy, Jordan, and Myrtle reflect the persona of women during the 1920’s. Their superficial personalities, extravagant lives, and careless actions emphasize the stark comparison of men to women. All three women mentioned above are nothing more than accessories in a man's life. Waiting to be plucked, to live a life controlled by their husbands or societies standards. Whether it be Myrtle, who is abused by Tom due to her lack of complacency; Daisy, who is unable operate without the constant judgment by Gatsby or Tom ; or Jordan who replicates the incompetence and carefree manner of 1920’s women, all three women are unable to see a future filled with freedom and independence.