Compare and Contrast: Tom and Daisy Buchanan in The Great Gatsby

Throughout F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel The Great Gatsby, the characters Tom and Daisy Buchanan play significant roles in the story's development. While they may initially seem like polar opposites, closer examination reveals that Tom and Daisy share several similarities that contribute to their complex and flawed characters. This essay will compare and contrast Tom and Daisy, highlighting their shared traits and the implications of these similarities.

Similarity 1: Privileged Background

One of the key similarities between Tom and Daisy is their privileged backgrounds. Both characters come from wealthy families, which shapes their outlook on life and influences their actions. Tom, as an old-money aristocrat, represents the established upper class, while Daisy, born into a socially prominent family, enjoys the benefits of her elevated status. Their shared upbringing fosters a sense of entitlement, leading to their careless and reckless behaviors throughout the novel.

For instance, both Tom and Daisy exhibit a lack of concern for the consequences of their actions. They engage in extramarital affairs without considering the emotional pain they inflict on their partners, demonstrating a callous disregard for the feelings of others. This shared trait underscores their shared sense of entitlement and their belief that they are above the rules that govern ordinary people.

Similarity 2: Materialism and Superficiality

Another significant similarity between Tom and Daisy is their strong attachment to material possessions and their superficial way of life. Both characters prioritize wealth, luxury, and appearances over genuine human connections and moral values. This materialistic mindset is evident in their extravagant lifestyles, their obsession with social status, and their desire to surround themselves with opulence.

Tom and Daisy's materialism and superficiality contribute to their unhappiness and dissatisfaction. Despite their wealth and privilege, they constantly seek more, never finding true contentment. Their shared pursuit of material possessions becomes a symbol of their emptiness and the lack of genuine fulfillment in their lives.

Similarity 3: Lack of Accountability

A final similarity between Tom and Daisy is their consistent avoidance of accountability for their actions. Both characters consistently shirk responsibility and fail to face the consequences of their choices. Tom, for example, repeatedly engages in affairs and displays abusive behavior towards his wife, yet he is never held accountable for his actions. Daisy, on the other hand, chooses to remain passive and allows others to make decisions for her, effectively avoiding responsibility for her own happiness.

This shared trait of evading accountability highlights the characters' moral weakness and their inability to confront the truth. Tom and Daisy's refusal to take responsibility for their actions ultimately leads to tragic outcomes for those around them, emphasizing the destructive consequences of their shared flaw.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Tom and Daisy Buchanan may appear to be vastly different characters, a closer examination reveals several significant similarities. Their privileged backgrounds, materialism, and superficiality, as well as their consistent avoidance of accountability, contribute to their complex and flawed personalities. By exploring these shared traits, readers gain a deeper understanding of the characters' motivations and the destructive forces that shape their lives. The parallels between Tom and Daisy serve as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked privilege and the pursuit of shallow desires. In a world where appearances often outweigh substance, Fitzgerald's portrayal of these characters provides valuable insights into the human condition.

Bibliography

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