The Great Gatsby Research Paper

Is the American Dream fact or fiction? The American Dream is a concept that has been widely discussed and analyzed in American literature, especially in F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel The Great Gatsby. The novel is set in the 1920s and explores the lives of wealthy individuals who live on Long Island, New York. These individuals, who are primarily involved in the stock market and other forms of investment, embody the ideals of the American Dream. In The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, displays the American Dream throughout the characters' lives. Nick Carraway is the main point of view, and the book is told and seen through his eyes. Fitzgerald characterizes the other characters in the book and often leaves Symbolic messages in his writing

For example, Jay Gatsby's desire to achieve his dream of winning back his lost love, Daisy Buchanan, drives him to accumulate vast wealth through illegal means. Similarly, Tom Buchanan's desire to maintain his social status and power motivates him to maintain his wealth and privilege at any cost. However, Fitzgerald also reveals the darker side of the American Dream, as characters become corrupted by their wealth and power. For example, Tom Buchanan's extramarital affair with Myrtle Wilson and his violent and abusive behavior towards her demonstrate the corrupting influence of power and privilege. Similarly, Jay Gatsby's criminal activities and his obsession with Daisy demonstrate the destructive nature of the American

Tom's character reveals the darker side of the American Dream, as he is willing to use his wealth and power to manipulate and control those around him.

The character of Nick Carraway serves as a moral compass in the novel, as he observes the lives of the wealthy individuals he encounters and becomes increasingly disillusioned with their lifestyle. Nick's character represents the struggle to reconcile the idealized concept of the American Dream with the harsh realities of American society. Nick becomes disillusioned with the American Dream, as he witnesses the corruption and emptiness that lie beneath the surface.

In conclusion, The Great Gatsby explores the concept of the American Dream and its portrayal in American society. Fitzgerald portrays the American Dream as a powerful driving force that motivates characters to pursue success and wealth. However, he also reveals the darker side of the American Dream, as characters become corrupted by their wealth and power. Fitzgerald portrays the American Dream as a hollow and empty ideal that leads to disillusionment and despair. The Great Gatsby is a powerful critique of American society and its values, and it remains an important work of literature that continues to resonate with readers