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The Great Gatsby Death Essay

888 Words4 Pages

F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel, The Great Gatsby, presents an illusive titular character, Jay Gatsby, who is a man shrouded in mystery and speculation. Rumors about his past swirled around him. Ideas such as him being a German spy in the war to killing a man have drifted in-and-out of listeners' ears. Unknowingly to listeners, the heart of Gatsby’s story lies the transformation from James Gatz, a poor farm boy from North Dakota who dreams of leaving his impoverished life, to an enigmatic and wealthy figure who seems to rule Long Island, New York. This transformation is not simply a matter of acquiring wealth, but of shedding his past self and the shame that comes with it. Gatsby is haunted by the memory of who he used to be, and goes to great lengths to conceal that part of his identity from those around him. Contrary to people's beliefs, Jay Gatsby has not admitted to physically killing a man, but he has killed someone. Although, it's not in the way that is believed. …show more content…

Gatsby is not a violent man by nature, but he is consumed by a deep hatred for the person he used to be. He sees James Gatz as a symbol of everything he despises about himself: his poverty, his lack of education, his humble beginnings. In order to become Jay Gatsby, he must destroy that version of himself completely. In this sense, Gatsby “kills” James Gatz in order to become the man he is now. He creates a new identity for himself, complete with a new name, a new accent, and a new history. He even goes as far to fabricate a false backstory for his wealth and status. Gatsby’s transformation is not just a matter of changing circumstances; it is a total reinvention of

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