Similarities Between The Great Gatsby And The Crucible

James Truslow Adams defines the American Dream as the “dream of a land in which life should be better and richer and fuller for everyone, with opportunity for each according to ability or achievement” (The American Dream). An idea sought after by millions of people is the American Dream; they believe there is a reward for hard work and that that reward is happiness and prosperity. The Great Gatsby, Of Mice and Men, and The Crucible are all works, which portray the pursuit and destruction of the American Dream.
Jay Gatsby’s American dream was to marry the woman he loved. This is evident throughout the novel; Gatsby is determined to transform his life from dirt to diamonds all to be a suitable man for Daisy. Thus, despite his poverty- stricken

Throughout the novel, Lennie and George discuss the luxuries available to them living on their own farm. During their conversations, George imagines and explains, “We'd jus' live there. We'd belong there. There wouldn't be no more runnin' round the country and gettin' fed by a Jap cook. No, sir, we'd have our own place where we belonged and not sleep in no bunk house” (Steinbeck 57). They dream of this because they are tired of living the nomad life, barely earning enough, and not belonging anywhere. They want something more for themselves because they deserve to feel the sense of belonging and living a happy and full life. Lennie and George do not want to tell many people about this dream because they know it is ridiculous, but when Candy discovers their plan, he wants to join. He exchanges a secret with them too. Candy informed them that he has three hundred and fifty dollars saved that he could contribute to the farm, and he would leave a will with his share of the land to both George and Lennie. After discussion, the men realized the dream was possible. Steinbeck described their reaction as the following, “They fell into a silence. They looked at one another amazed. This thing they had never really believed was coming true” (Steinbeck 60). At this time, George, Lennie, and Candy believed the American Dream was possible, but not all dreams can come true. Lennie was destined for trouble, but the

People of the world have goals and aspirations, but they are never achieved because the opposing forces are too powerful to overcome. Despite the situations, various people have hope of achieving a life that is good and full of opportunity. Do you think the American Dream is