The Great Gatsby Tom Buchanan Wealth Quotes

People pursue wealth as a means to gain power and influence, viewing it as a symbol of success. However, the relentless pursuit of wealth can lead to moral decay and corruption, causing people to sacrifice their moral principles in order to obtain material possessions. The character of Tom Buchanan in F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel exemplifies this phenomenon. Tom's relentless pursuit of an idealized lifestyle defined by wealth causes him to abandon his moral compass, how wealth can have a corrosive effect on an individual's character and drive them to behave in ways that destroy themselves and those around them. Tom Buchanan views physical objects as tools to assert his superiority and dominance over others. Early in the novel, the author introduces

Tom's “supercilious” manner stems from the perceived power he uses to manipulate others. However, Tom's behavior traces back to his obsession with material possessions. For instance, when Nick visits the Buchanan residence for the first time, he describes Tom's home as a "factual imitation of some Hotel de Ville in Normandy" (9). This description highlights how Tom's opulent lifestyle is meant to impress others as if he tries to create an image based on power and wealth rather than character. Nick’s description of his house as an imitation implies that it lacks any genuine substance, and is merely a superficial display of wealth. Furthermore, when Tom shows off his car to Nick, he says, "I've got to have this thing overhauled. That’s why I’m

He treats Myrtle as a possession and often physically abuses her. When Myrtle talks back to him during one of their arguments, Tom “[breaks] her nose with his open hand” (37). This violent act highlights Tom’s sense of entitlement and his belief in his inherent superiority due to his social status. He does not consider that he is committing this act in front of his family member Nick, as it is an acceptable action for a person of his character. Furthermore, when Myrtle dies in a car accident, Tom does not even attend her funeral. This callous disregard for Myrtle’s life further emphasizes Tom’s lack of empathy and humanity. Additionally, Tom demonstrates his treatment of Daisy as a possession to be controlled when he states, "I've got a nice place here… you ought to see the baby" (16). This quote reveals how Tom sees Daisy and her daughter as objects that complement his possessions, rather than human beings with their own desires and aspirations. Tom's treatment of Daisy serves as a powerful example of how the pursuit of wealth can dehumanize individuals and erode their sense of empathy, as he values his own wealth and social status more than her life and freedom. He also uses his wealth and power to maintain his position of privilege in society. He is dismissive of people who are not of his social class, referring to them as "the lower classes" and the