The Great Gatsby and the American Dream

Definition

The Great Gatsby, written by F. Scott Fitzgerald, is a novel that explores the theme of the American Dream, which suggests that anyone can achieve success and prosperity through hard work and determination. The story critiques this ideal by illustrating how it can lead to disillusionment and moral decay, showcasing characters who pursue wealth and status, yet find emptiness instead of fulfillment. The juxtaposition of Gatsby's dream and the reality of 1920s America reveals deeper social issues such as class struggle, the pursuit of happiness, and the corruption of ideals.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. F. Scott Fitzgerald wrote The Great Gatsby in 1925, during a period known as the Jazz Age, reflecting the cultural changes in America post-World War I.
2. The novel's main character, Jay Gatsby, represents the idea of the self-made man who rises from humble beginnings to immense wealth but ultimately fails to attain true happiness.
3. The Valley of Ashes is a significant symbol in the novel that illustrates the moral and social decay resulting from the uninhibited pursuit of wealth.
4. The green light at the end of Daisy's dock symbolizes Gatsby's unattainable dream and the elusive nature of the American Dream itself.
5. The Great Gatsby critiques the notion that financial success equates to happiness by showing that many characters are unfulfilled despite their wealth and status.

Review Questions

• How does Fitzgerald use symbols in The Great Gatsby to convey themes related to the American Dream?
  • Fitzgerald employs various symbols throughout The Great Gatsby to illustrate themes surrounding the American Dream. For instance, the green light at Daisy's dock represents Gatsby's hope and longing for a future with Daisy, symbolizing the unattainable aspects of the American Dream. Additionally, the Valley of Ashes serves as a stark contrast to the wealth displayed in East Egg and West Egg, emphasizing the moral decay hidden beneath the surface glamour of society. These symbols collectively underscore the critique of materialism and disillusionment inherent in the pursuit of success.
• Analyze how class distinctions impact character relationships and aspirations in The Great Gatsby.
  • Class distinctions significantly impact character relationships and aspirations in The Great Gatsby. Characters like Tom Buchanan epitomize old money and privilege, while Gatsby represents new money, highlighting tensions between established aristocracy and those who seek acceptance through wealth. This class divide not only shapes their interactions but also influences their dreams; Gatsby's desire for Daisy is complicated by her societal status. Ultimately, Fitzgerald illustrates how these class barriers contribute to the broader theme of disillusionment with the American Dream.
• Evaluate how The Great Gatsby reflects the societal changes in America during the 1920s and what this says about the American Dream.
  • The Great Gatsby serves as a reflection of societal changes in America during the 1920s by illustrating both the exuberance and moral ambiguity of that era. As traditional values began to wane following World War I, people chased wealth and hedonism, often at great personal cost. Fitzgerald critiques this shift by showing that while characters like Gatsby achieve financial success, they remain emotionally unfulfilled and disconnected from true happiness. This portrayal suggests that while the American Dream promises prosperity through hard work, it can also lead to profound disillusionment when personal values are sacrificed for material gain.

Related terms

Jazz Age: A term used to describe the 1920s in America, characterized by a cultural and social revolution, marked by jazz music, flappers, and a general sense of exuberance.

Social Stratification: The hierarchical arrangement of individuals or groups in society based on factors like wealth, income, education, and social status.

Materialism: The preoccupation with material possessions and physical comfort, often at the expense of spiritual or ethical values.