Defense Mechanisms In The Great Gatsby

163 Words1 Pages
People have their own way of coping with the many challenges they may face throughout life. Some people deny their feelings, some repress their feelings, and some project their feelings onto other people. A prime example of all three defense mechanisms can be found in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel The Great Gatsby. The characters Jay Gatsby, George Wilson, and Daisy and Tom Buchanan all divert their problems with becoming attached to loved ones by using the defense mechanisms denial, repression, and projection. First, Gatsby denies his affair with Daisy and does not see it for what it truly is. At the same time, George denies that his wife is having an affair as well. Second, Gatsby, Wilson, Daisy, and Tom all use extreme precautions to avoid