What Does The Estate Symbolize In The Great Gatsby

To many, the American Dream signifies prosperity and boundless opportunities that lead to success. In his novel The Great Gatsby, F. Scott Fitzgerald examines the concept of the American Dream with the character of Jay Gatsby. The symbols in Gatsby’s residence emphasise the devastating effects of pursuing the impossible, while Gatsby’s behaviour showcases the consequences of denying the truth. Therefore, through the symbolism of Gatsby’s estate and indirect characterization, Fitzgerald highlights how the pursuit of the American Dream leads to self-destruction. To begin, Fitzgerald uses the symbolism of Gatsby’s books and his mansion to demonstrate his desire to be a part of the upper class. The shelves of books in Gatsby’s library show his

This fella's a regular Belasco… [but] Knew when to stop, too—didn't cut the pages” (Fitzgerald 46). Fitzgerald uses the uncut books to symbolise Gatsby’s shallow and superficial life. The uncut pages signify the fact that the books are never read and are only displayed for show, illustrating that Gatsby’s wealthy and extravagant appearance and lifestyle is only a facade. Furthermore, Gatsby’s determination to be perceived as old money can be seen with his mansion. Gatsby’s residence is described as “a factual imitation of some Hôtel de Ville in Normandy, with a tower on one side, spanking new under a thin beard of raw ivy, and a marble swimming pool and more than forty acres of lawn and garden” (5). Gatsby’s house being an imitation of a grand place symbolises that despite his zealous attempt to be perceived as part of high society, Gatsby is only a false and forged version of the upper class, and will never be truly accepted as an upper class man. Additionally, as ivy-covered houses are old, the raw and new ivy on Gatsby’s house demonstrates that he is not old money, yet tries to portray himself as

Additionally, Gatsby’s reaction after reuniting with Daisy demonstrates the disillusionment that comes from the blind pursuit of the American Dream. When Gatsby meets Daisy for the first time in years, he realises that there "have been moments…that afternoon when Daisy tumbled short of his dreams—not through her own fault, but because of the colossal vitality of his illusion" (95). The phrase "colossal vitality of his illusion" indicates that Gatsby’s fantastical version of Daisy is incredibly powerful as it prevents him from consciously perceiving reality. After years of envisioning her through the lens of his fantasy, Gatsby is disappointed when he finally meets the real Daisy, demonstrating the disillusionment that comes from the pursuit of a fantasy. Gatsby’s inability to leave his reverie leads to Daisy falling short of his expectations, which eventually leads to his disappointment, shattering his version of the American