Daisy and Myrtle in The Great Gatsby: Exploring The Contrasting Lives of Two Women

When reading F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel The Great Gatsby, it becomes evident that the characters of Daisy Buchanan and Myrtle Wilson play significant roles in shaping the narrative. Both women are entangled in the lives of the male protagonists, but their differences are stark. Daisy, the epitome of elegance and wealth, represents the upper class, while Myrtle, a working-class woman, longs for a life of luxury. By examining the contrasting lives of Daisy and Myrtle, we can gain insight into the themes of social class and the pursuit of the American Dream. Through their differences in social status, relationships, and aspirations, these two characters serve as a lens through which we can explore the complexities of the 1920s society depicted in the novel.

Body

One of the most noticeable differences between Daisy and Myrtle is their social status. As the wife of Tom Buchanan, a wealthy and influential man, Daisy belongs to the upper echelons of society. She is described as having a "voice full of money" and is constantly surrounded by opulence and luxury. On the other hand, Myrtle is married to George Wilson, a working-class mechanic. They reside in the "valley of ashes," a desolate and impoverished area symbolizing the decay of the American Dream. Myrtle's longing for a more extravagant life is evident in her affair with Tom, as she seeks to escape her lower-class existence.

Moreover, Daisy's social status grants her certain privileges and freedoms that Myrtle cannot access. Daisy is able to maintain an air of innocence and fragility, shielded from the harsh realities of life. Meanwhile, Myrtle is forced to confront the harshness of her circumstances daily, working as a shop assistant in a small town. The stark contrast in their social standing not only affects their day-to-day lives but also shapes their motivations and desires.

The relationships of Daisy and Myrtle also differ greatly, highlighting their disparate experiences within the world of love and companionship. Daisy's marriage to Tom is presented as an empty and loveless union, characterized by infidelity and superficiality. Despite this, Daisy is able to maintain a certain level of stability and security due to her husband's wealth. On the other hand, Myrtle's relationship with George is also devoid of love, but for different reasons. Myrtle seeks solace and excitement in her affair with Tom, as she dreams of a life filled with passion and material abundance.

While Daisy's relationship with Tom is marred by disillusionment and indifference, it is still a socially acceptable union within their upper-class circles. Myrtle, however, is condemned for her affair with Tom, revealing the double standards and judgments prevalent in society. The differences in their relationships reflect the limitations and expectations placed on women in the 1920s, depending on their social standing.

Another significant difference between Daisy and Myrtle lies in their aspirations. Daisy, despite her discontentment in her marriage, does not actively seek to change her circumstances. Instead, she remains trapped in a world of privilege and superficiality, unable or unwilling to challenge societal expectations. Myrtle, on the other hand, aspires to break free from her lower-class life and experience the glamour and excitement of the upper class.

Myrtle's desire for a more extravagant life is evident in her affair with Tom, whom she sees as her gateway to a life of luxury. She yearns for material possessions and the social status that accompanies them. Daisy, although dissatisfied with her marriage, appears to prioritize the preservation of her reputation and social standing over personal fulfillment. Her lack of agency and willingness to conform to societal norms contrast sharply with Myrtle's ambition and pursuit of a life beyond her humble origins.

Conclusion

In The Great Gatsby, F. Scott Fitzgerald uses the characters of Daisy Buchanan and Myrtle Wilson to explore the complexities of social class and the pursuit of the American Dream. Daisy, representing the upper class, embodies the ease and privilege that wealth affords, while Myrtle, a working-class woman, longs for a life of luxury. Their differences in social status, relationships, and aspirations shed light on the contrasting experiences of women in 1920s society.

By examining the lives of Daisy and Myrtle, we gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and limitations faced by women during this time. Daisy's adherence to societal expectations and her reluctance to challenge her circumstances symbolize the constraints placed on women of privilege. Myrtle, on the other hand, represents the yearning for upward mobility and the pursuit of a better life.

The contrasting lives of Daisy and Myrtle serve as a reminder that the pursuit of the American Dream is not equally accessible to all. The choices and opportunities available to individuals are heavily influenced by their social standing and the expectations placed upon them. Through the lens of these two characters, Fitzgerald invites us to reflect on the complexities of social class, gender roles, and the illusion of the American Dream.

Bibliography

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