The Unattainable Dream- Decoding the Underlying Theme of ‘The Great Gatsby’
What is the theme for “The Great Gatsby”? This question has intrigued readers for decades since F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel was first published in 1925. The Great Gatsby, set in the Roaring Twenties, explores various themes, including the American Dream, the decline of the American Dream, the corruption of the American Dream, and the pursuit of wealth and status. This article will delve into these themes and analyze how they contribute to the novel’s enduring appeal.
The American Dream is a central theme in “The Great Gatsby.” The novel opens with Nick Carraway, the narrator, arriving in New York and becoming a part of the glittering world of the wealthy. The characters in the novel are all striving to achieve the American Dream, whether it is through wealth, love, or social status. Gatsby, in particular, embodies the quintessential American Dreamer. He starts as a poor man from the Midwest and becomes a wealthy socialite, all in the hope of winning back the love of his lost love, Daisy Buchanan.
However, the novel also highlights the decline of the American Dream. The characters in “The Great Gatsby” are portrayed as hollow and empty, with their pursuit of wealth and status leaving them unfulfilled. The novel suggests that the American Dream is unattainable for most people, as it is built on the foundation of corruption, greed, and moral decay. The wealthy characters, such as Tom and Daisy Buchanan, are depicted as amoral and selfish, using their money and power to manipulate others.
Another significant theme in “The Great Gatsby” is the corruption of the American Dream. The novel portrays the wealthy as corrupt and morally bankrupt, using their money to buy influence and happiness. Gatsby’s dream is not only about wealth and status but also about love and redemption. However, his dream is ultimately corrupted by the materialistic and shallow world he has entered.
The pursuit of wealth and status is another prominent theme in the novel. The characters are constantly vying for a higher social status, often at the expense of their morality and relationships. The novel suggests that the pursuit of wealth and status can lead to a hollow existence, as the characters are unable to find true happiness or fulfillment.
In conclusion, “The Great Gatsby” explores various themes, including the American Dream, the decline of the American Dream, the corruption of the American Dream, and the pursuit of wealth and status. These themes contribute to the novel’s enduring appeal and its relevance to modern readers. The novel serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of pursuing wealth and status at the expense of one’s values and relationships.
