Is Jay Gatsby Truly Great?

Even 93 years after The Great Gatsby was written, the character of Jay Gatsby remains a subject of intense debate. Is he truly great, or is he a tragic figure with flawed ambitions? Let's delve into the key points that contribute to this ongoing discussion.

The American Dream

At its core, Jay Gatsby embodies the American Dream, having risen from humble beginnings to immense wealth. His determination, ambition, and relentless pursuit of success are admirable qualities that reflect the spirit of the American Dream. Gatsby's rags-to-riches story is a testament to the possibility of achieving greatness through hard work and perseverance.

Romantic Idealism

Gatsby's love for Daisy Buchanan drives the majority of the plot in F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel. His idealization of her represents a deep yearning for love and connection, showcasing his romantic nature. However, Gatsby's idealism can be seen as unrealistic and ultimately destructive. The realities of their relationship and the societal expectations of their time highlight the limitations of Gatsby's romantic idealism.

Moral Ambiguity

Gatsby's wealth, while impressive, is acquired through questionable means, including bootlegging and other illegal activities. This raises ethical questions about the nature of his success and whether it can be deemed legitimate. The moral ambiguity of his actions highlights the complexities of his character and the society he inhabits.

Isolation and Tragedy

Despite his wealth and lavish parties, Gatsby remains profoundly lonely. His isolation and tragic end serve as a poignant reminder of the emptiness of his pursuits. The hollowness of the world he tried to penetrate is evident in the way he is ultimately unable to fulfill his aspirations, highlighting the unsustainability of his lifestyle.

Legacy and Impact

Gatsby's story serves as a critique of the American Dream and the social elite of the 1920s. His life and tragic end leave a lasting impression on the other characters and the reader, prompting reflection on themes of aspiration, identity, and loss. The Great Gatsby remains a powerful exploration of the human condition and the pursuit of the impossible.

When we consider 93 years later, it's hard to escape the modern perception that Gatsby is little more than an obsessed stalker, albeit one whose wealth, manners, and gracious acceptance of defeat play against the modern caricature of a revengeful, unshaven drunk with a switchblade skulking around in a black ski cap. Perhaps in 1925, his single-minded quest to reconquer Daisy’s heart would have been regarded as romantic. I don't know. I wasn't there.

It might have been seen as silly in a rather libertine time, which might explain the book's poor sales in its first ten years. I don't see Gatsby as 'great' at all. Obviously, Nick Carraway does, but Nick gives us little reason to care what he thinks. I see Gatsby as pathetic. He had the power to reinvent himself, but his quest forces him to play a bad imitation of an aristocratic Englishman in a desperate but ultimately futile attempt to disguise his wealth and keep the source of his fortune secret long enough to convince Daisy to run away with him and fulfill his rescuer fantasies.