The Transformative Nature Of Gatsby's Character

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Walzzor makes a compelling point on this question, pointing out the performative nature of Gatsby 's character. Gatsby is not only hiding his past from society (for the most part), he has also created a role for himself. The "monied man with manners and grace" might be one way to term the part he plays for society, covering his humble background. Gatsby is not Gatsby but Jimmy Gatz, a poor boy from the Midwest--like Nick Carraway--who happened upon a chance that took him away from his life and gave him the opportunity to move into a different world. The title of the novel then refers, to some extent, to the idea that "Gatsby" is a performed character - a show and a showman. He does not "belong" in the world of the wealthy elite and his outsider