What Does The American Dream Represent In The Great Gatsby

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The American Dream is a major theme represented in the novel The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald. The American Dream is defined as the ideal that every US citizen has an equal opportunity to achieve success and prosperity through hard work, determination, and initiative. Several characters throughout the story are included in the American Dream lifestyle such as Gatsby, Daisy, Tom, and Jordan. The story takes place in the 1920’s, and during this time period a primary goal for most was to achieve this dream. For many, the American Dream consisted of having and maintaining wealth. Jay Gatsby takes the main role in the representation of the dream because throughout his life it is changed from rags to riches, his life is now represented by…show more content…
Gatsby’s mansion was “a colossal affair by any standard—it was 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” (Fitzgerald 3). With Gatsby’s wealth he purchases many items that some only dream of having. Gatsby own a ginormous mansion, fancy cars, and custom made clothing. Gatsby worked for this money and now is living up his life pursuing all his wants and wishes. He is able to purchase anything he desires and can afford it all without worry, due to careless spending, Gatsby is separate from others and demonstrates a pursuit in the American…show more content…
Gatsby’s parties were a massive event in which “men and girls came and went like moths among the whisperings and the champagne and the stars… bearing parties to and from the city between nine in the morning and long past midnight” (39). People from all places and all social classes would come to Gatsby’s parties. Gatsby had food and drinks for all the guest as well as entertainment. Gatsby, himself, did not actively engage in the parties but threw them for the guest. This shows that Gatsby has an outrageous amount of wealth; he can throw a terribly expensive party yet not enjoy the fun. His lifestyle is full of wealth and excitement overall which is something everybody dreams of. Gatsby does not need to have a financial care in the world and has the ability to share his wealth for the happiness of others. His parties represent how wealthy he is and contributes to his American Dream
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