Characteristics of Jordan Baker in The Great Gatsby

Jordan Baker, a prominent character in F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel The Great Gatsby, possesses a variety of traits that contribute to her complexity and significance within the story. Her independent and self-assured nature, her dishonesty and lack of moral values, and her role as a symbol of the corruption and superficiality of the Jazz Age society are all key aspects of her character. Through an analysis of these traits, it becomes evident that Jordan Baker serves as a catalyst for the development of other characters and the exploration of major themes in the novel. This essay will delve into the various characteristics of Jordan Baker, highlighting their importance in understanding the overall narrative of The Great Gatsby.

Independent and Self-assured

Jordan Baker is introduced as a highly independent and self-assured young woman, which immediately sets her apart from the traditional female characters of the 1920s. She is described as having "an erect carriage, which she accentuated by throwing her body backward at the shoulders like a young cadet" (Fitzgerald 11). This physical description, combined with her confident demeanor, suggests that Jordan is not easily swayed by societal expectations or the opinions of others.

Jordan's independence is further emphasized through her career as a professional golfer. In a time when women were expected to prioritize marriage and domesticity, Jordan pursues her passion and achieves success in a male-dominated sport. This aspect of her character provides a critique of the restrictive gender roles of the era and highlights the progressive nature of her personality.

Furthermore, Jordan's self-assuredness is evident in her interactions with other characters. She speaks her mind freely and does not shy away from expressing her opinions, even when they may be unpopular. This trait is illustrated when she casually remarks, "Dishonesty in a woman is a thing you never blame deeply" (Fitzgerald 63). Jordan's ability to confidently voice her beliefs reflects her strong sense of self and her refusal to conform to societal norms.

Dishonesty and Lack of Moral Values

While Jordan possesses many admirable qualities, she is also characterized by her dishonesty and lack of moral values. This is exemplified through her involvement in the cheating scandal at her first golf tournament. Nick Carraway, the narrator and a love interest of Jordan, recounts the incident, stating that she had "moved her ball from a bad lie in the semi-final round" (Fitzgerald 57). This act of cheating not only undermines Jordan's integrity but also reveals her willingness to bend the rules for her own benefit.

Jordan's dishonesty extends beyond the golf course and permeates her personal relationships as well. She is known for her casual and shallow attitude towards love and commitment. She admits to Nick that she has been "careless" with the hearts of others, indicating a lack of empathy and concern for the emotions of those around her (Fitzgerald 64). Jordan's disregard for moral values and her selfish behavior contribute to the overall theme of moral decay and corruption in the novel.

A Symbol of Corruption and Superficiality

In addition to her individual traits, Jordan Baker serves as a symbol of the corruption and superficiality that pervade the Jazz Age society depicted in the novel. Her association with the wealthy and glamorous provides insight into the shallow and materialistic nature of the characters she surrounds herself with. As a professional golfer, she is often seen at parties and social events, mingling with the elite of society.

Jordan's connection to the Buchanan family, particularly Daisy Buchanan, further highlights her role as a symbol of corruption. Daisy, who is married to Tom Buchanan, represents the privileged upper class and the moral decay that comes with it. Jordan's close association with Daisy suggests that she too is a part of this corrupt world, reinforcing the notion that wealth and social status do not guarantee moral integrity.

Furthermore, Jordan's physical appearance and mannerisms contribute to the superficiality associated with her character. She is described as having "wan, charming, discontented face" and "an enthusiasm that was as contagious as it was profound" (Fitzgerald 11). These descriptions imply that Jordan's charm and beauty are integral to her character and are used to manipulate and deceive others.

Conclusion

Jordan Baker's character in The Great Gatsby embodies a variety of traits that contribute to the complexity and significance of the narrative. Her independent and self-assured nature challenges traditional gender roles, while her dishonesty and lack of moral values serve as a critique of the corrupt society of the Jazz Age. Additionally, Jordan's character functions as a symbol of the superficiality and moral decay that permeate the novel. Through an analysis of these characteristics, it becomes evident that Jordan Baker plays a crucial role in the development of other characters and the exploration of major themes in The Great Gatsby.

Overall, Jordan Baker's character provides valuable insights into the societal and moral climate of the 1920s, while also contributing to the overall narrative of the novel. Her complex personality and multifaceted traits make her a captivating and thought-provoking character, leaving a lasting impression on readers.

Bibliography

Fitzgerald, F. Scott. The Great Gatsby. Scribner, 1925.