Sandon
Michele Sandon (0556658)
Dr. Andrew Tomko
2014 JUN LIT-206-OL009 American Literature 2
29 June 2014
The Romantic
In The Great Gatsby by Scott Fitzgerald, we are introduced to a man who is rather "larger than life." "The character begins as a disciple of the work ethic and turns into a pursuer of wealth, and the American Dream accordingly turns into a nightmare" (Norton 2127). He is iconic in his representation of the style of life admired today. Gatsby's era is the "roaring twenties" where art, culture, music, society and entertainment are valued and idolized. Breaking forth from that picturesque view is Gatsby the romantic, having obtained the "toys" of the elite, appearing to love cultural pursuits, keeping himself a rather mysterious man, and uncompromisingly loyal to his true love.
Jay Gatsby is trying to make himself into a man who is a part of the respected upper class, and he obtains many of the "toys" that are enjoyed only by that social class.
A study of F. Scott Fitzgerald by Gordon Bryant. P...
The grave of F. Scott Fitzgerald and Zelda Fitzger...
F. Scott Fitzgerald, 1937, June 4He has a large, beautiful mansion with immaculate "blue garden" (42) grounds with "eight servants." He is flamboyant with his car, sees it as a status symbol, and wants the community to see him driving it. In fact, despite what they may think of Gatsby, those acquainted with him do admire the car. He also has his plane that he invites Nick along to enjoy. While, in reality, a long con to win Daisy, he appears to be a fun loving host with his friends and acquaintances, always wanting to provide them with the best social exchanges. "I watched his guests diving from the tower of his raft...taking the sun on his...beach...while his two-motor boats slit the waters...drawing aquaplanes. His Rolls-Royce became an omnibus bearing parties to and from the city" (43). "Fitzgerald illustrates the processes...