Examples Of Misconception In The Great Gatsby

A misconception is a preconceived or incorrect idea and it can be found in many areas of life including literature. A misconception can also be viewed as being blind sided and simply not seeing the full aspect of things in general. In F Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby, the idea of the American dream is a common misconception that is explored throughout the novel. The American dream is the idea of living your best life and achieving success and prosperity through hard work and determination. Fitzgerald challenges this idea by showing how it is often unattainable for those who are not born into wealth. Through the characters of Jay Gatsby and Tom Buchanan, Fitzgerald demonstrates how the American dream is a misconception that can lead to

However as the novel progresses it becomes clear that the American dream is only attainable for those born into wealth and privilege. Another example is Tom Buchanan is able to maintain his position of power and wealth despite his many flaws while Gatsby who has worked hard to achieve his wealth is ultimately unable to win back the love of Daisy buchanan. This illustrates how the American dream is a misconception that can lead to disillusionment and

He turned to us and spoke rapidly. 'He and this wolfsheim brought up a lot of side street drug stores here and in Chicago and sold grain alcohol over the counter. That's one of his little stunts. I picked him up for a bootlegger the first time I saw him, and I wasn't wrong’” ( Fitzgerald 133). This quote supports the idea that the American dream is a misconception because it shows how Gatsby's wealth was acquired through illegal and unethical means rather than through hard work and determination. This illustrates how the American dream is a misconception that leads to disillusionment. Gatsby's pursuit of wealth and status ultimately leads to his downfall because he is unable to achieve his dreams through legitimate means. Instead he turns to illegal activities in order to acquire the wealth and Status he desires. This shows how the American dream can be a harmful and destructive force because it encourages people to pursue their dreams at any cause necessary even if it means breaking the law or engaging in unethical Behavior. In the end Gatsby's pursuit of the American dream leads to his tragic death which serves as a cautionary about the dangers of pursuing the American