Causes of Myrtle's Death in The Great Gatsby

In F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel, The Great Gatsby, the character of Myrtle Wilson meets a tragic end, but what were the causes of her death? Some may argue that it was solely the result of a car accident, while others believe that there were deeper underlying factors at play. By examining the events leading up to Myrtle's demise, it becomes clear that her death was not simply a matter of being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

One of the primary causes of Myrtle's death is her tumultuous relationship with Tom Buchanan. As a married woman trapped in a loveless marriage, Myrtle seeks solace in the arms of Tom, a wealthy and powerful man who provides her with material comforts and a sense of excitement. However, Tom's treatment of Myrtle is often callous and degrading, as he openly flaunts his wealth and status in front of her. This toxic dynamic creates a sense of dependency in Myrtle, leading her to make risky decisions in order to maintain her connection to Tom.

Another factor that contributes to Myrtle's demise is her own desire for a better life. Myrtle is dissatisfied with her social standing and yearns for the glamour and luxury that she associates with the wealthy elite. This longing drives her to pursue a relationship with Tom, as she believes that he can offer her the lifestyle she desires. However, this pursuit of wealth and status ultimately leads Myrtle down a dangerous path, where she becomes entangled in a web of deceit and betrayal.

The party at the Plaza Hotel serves as a turning point in Myrtle's fate. During this fateful gathering, tensions run high as Tom and Gatsby confront each other over their shared love interest, Daisy Buchanan. In a fit of rage, Tom lashes out at Myrtle, striking her in a moment of unchecked anger. This act of violence sets off a chain of events that culminates in Myrtle's tragic death, as she runs out into the street in a desperate attempt to escape the chaos unfolding around her.

Ultimately, Myrtle's death is a result of the intersecting forces of love, desire, and social inequality. Her relationship with Tom exposes the power dynamics at play in their affair, while her own aspirations for a better life blind her to the risks she is taking. In the end, Myrtle's death serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of pursuing happiness at any cost, and the destructive nature of unfulfilled desires.

In conclusion, the causes of Myrtle's death in The Great Gatsby are multi-faceted and complex. From her toxic relationship with Tom Buchanan to her own pursuit of wealth and status, Myrtle's demise is the result of a perfect storm of emotional turmoil and societal pressures. By examining these factors in depth, it becomes clear that Myrtle's death is not simply a tragic accident, but a cautionary tale about the dangers of chasing after an unattainable dream.