The Protagonists In The Great Gatsby, By F. Scott Fitzgerald

Readers have been intrigued by the idea of a hero protagonist in literature because of their strength and determination. We are drawn to stories that highlight these role models' heroic achievements. However, beneath the surface of this traditional narrative lies a larger truth: protagonists are not always the example of perfection we assume them to be. The protagonists in "1984", by George Orwell, and "The Great Gatsby," by F. Scott Fitzgerald, provide strong instances that disprove the idea that protagonists are heroes. These literary works feature protagonists with flawed character traits, failed attempts to achieve their ideal goals, and a strong sense of isolation. We learn more about how these works challenge traditional ideas of heroism

Through their flawed character traits, they prove to readers that not all protagonists are hero's. Winston Smith, the protagonist in “1984” lacks mental and physical strength which sets him apart from a traditional hero. Winston is initially portrayed as a rebellious individual who questions the Party’s control and seeks to assert his individuality. However, he loses this burning passion as he proves his naivety. Orwell states, “The best books, he perceived, are those that tell you what you know already” (Orwell 253). This proves that Winston is not seeking to learn new things and therefore lacks mental strength. Winston’s physical weakness also emphasizes his unheroic nature. It is stated that Winston has a “varicose ulcer above his right ankle” (Orwell 3) making him weak. Winstons lack of mental and physical strength demonstrate his flaws and weaknesses that distinguishes him from a traditional hero. Additionally, Jay Gatsby, the protagonist in “The Great Gatsby” is driven by his insecurities and his desire to relive the past. Gatsby’s character is defined by his relentless pursuit of material wealth and love all stemming from his need to win the affection of Daisy Buchanan. It is his insecurities and longing for things to be how they used to, half a decade ago, that lead to his downfall which is quite unlike a hero. The quote “”Can’t repeat the past?” he cried incredulously.

Throughout “1984”, Winston wishes to achieve freedom, individuality, and a rebellion against the Party. However, he realizes his goal is unattainable due to the seemingly invincible nature of the Party and its control over society. The quote, “In any case the Party was invincible. It would always exist, and it would always be the same. You could only rebel against it by secret disobedience or, at most, by isolated acts of violence such as killing somebody or blowing something up” (Orwell 192) exemplifies Winston's realization of the immense power of the Party. Orwell underlines Winston's realization of his own helplessness in the face of the Party's domination through this quote. This realization reveals his failed attempts to bring about meaningful change and achieve his idealistic goals of freedom. Winston is not a hero because he has accepted the fact that his rebellion is pointless and that the Party will always remain in power. Furthermore, in “The Great Gatsby”, Gatsby also displays failed attempts to reach his idealistic goals, especially in his pursuit of the American Dream and his obsessive longing for Daisy Buchanan. Gatsby’s obsession with Daisy symbolizes his desire to attain wealth, social status, and relive the past, but ultimately fails. The quote, “His heartbeat faster and faster as Daisy’s white face came up