Exploring Relatable Characters in F. Scott Fitzgerald's 'The Great Gatsby'

First published in 1925, The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald remains a cornerstone of American literature. This novel portrays the opulent, yet ultimately disillusioning, world of the Roaring Twenties through the eyes of various interconnected characters. In this article, we'll delve into the characters that resonate with readers and why they continue to capture our imaginations.

The Enigmatic Jay Gatsby

Jay Gatsby stands out as one of the most intriguing and relatable characters in The Great Gatsby. As the novel's protagonist, Gatsby's pursuit of the American Dream through lavish parties and elaborate schemes captivates readers. His romanticism, idealization of Daisy Buchanan, and the struggle to achieve the image he projects have made him a symbol of pursuit and longing.

Why Gatsby Resonates:

The raw intensity of his yearning for Daisy, which reflects universal themes of love and loss His subtle sense of social injustice and his own disillusionment with the 'old money' elite The stark contrast between his public persona and his private dreams The ultimate tragedy of his pursuit, which leads to his downfall

Gatsby's journey is a universal narrative that allows readers to identify their own dreams and the lengths they are willing to go to achieve them. His story encapsulates the American ethos of striving and the crushing reality that often follows.

The Alluring Daisy Buchanan

Daisy Buchanan, the femme fatale at the center of the novel, is another character that many readers find relatable. Her complex character represents the moral and social ambiguities of the era. While she is captivating and alluring, Daisy's capacity for both love and deception makes her a compelling and relatable figure.

Why Daisy Resonates:

Her struggle between traditional gender roles and personal desires The contrast between her surface appearance of sweetness and her true character Her capacity for change and the facade she maintains to fit into society Her vulnerability, despite her outwardly cold demeanor

Many readers find themselves in Daisy's position, grappling with their true selves and societal expectations. The Great Gatsby reflects the harsh realities of such struggles through Daisy's character.

The Enigmatic Tom Buchanan

Tom Buchanan is the antithesis of Gatsby, representing the old money aristocracy that Gatsby is trying to emulate. His character is a mix of arrogance, wealth, and a sense of entitlement that has angered many readers. Despite his flaws, Tom also resonates with readers due to his unapologetic manipulation and the superficiality associated with his class.

Why Tom Resonates:

His unrefined and uncouth behavior, reflecting the superficiality of the era The power dynamics he exploits, which mirror real-world societal issues His defense of social norms that align with certain readers' views His manipulation and control over Daisy, symbolizing the class divide

Tom's character challenges readers to question the values and standards that underpin societal norms. His presence in the novel serves as a critique of the era's established order, making him a relatable figure in its own right.

The Relatable Struggles and Themes

The Great Gatsby is not just about the characters but about the struggles and themes that make them relatable. The Roaring Twenties, with its excesses and moral ambiguity, offer a backdrop for readers to connect with the narrative on a deeper level.

The American Dream: Gatsby's pursuit of wealth and social status reflects the universal struggle for success. Social Class: The difference between old and new money, and the struggles of integrating into high society, resonate with readers' own experiences with social stratification. Moral Ambiguity: The characters' actions and motives often challenge readers' moral compasses, making them feel as though they are part of the narrative. Romance and Betrayal: The romantic entanglements and betrayals in the novel reflect common themes in love and relationships.

By exploring these characters and themes, The Great Gatsby continues to resonate with readers across generations. From Gatsby's pursuit to Daisy's struggles and Tom's challenges, each character offers a window into the human condition, allowing readers to see their own lives and dreams reflected in the story.

Conclusion

Whether through the pursuit of the American Dream, the moral complexities of romance, or the social challenges of class, The Great Gatsby offers a multifaceted narrative that allows readers to see themselves in its characters. By analyzing the relatable struggles and themes, we can better understand the universal truths that Fitzgerald so masterfully captured in his masterpiece.