Differences and Similarities Between Tom and Gatsby

In F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel, The Great Gatsby, the characters of Tom Buchanan and Jay Gatsby stand in stark contrast to each other, yet share some similarities as well. This essay will explore the key differences and similarities between these two characters, providing a deeper understanding of their complex personalities and motivations.

Contrasts and Comparisons Between Tom and Gatsby

Tom Buchanan is portrayed as a wealthy, arrogant, and entitled man who comes from old money. He is married to Daisy Buchanan, the novel's female protagonist, and is depicted as controlling and manipulative. Tom represents the old, established upper class in America, with his inherited wealth and sense of entitlement. He is a symbol of the corruption and moral decay that pervades the society in which the novel is set. On the other hand, Jay Gatsby is a self-made man who has amassed his wealth through illegal means. He is obsessed with Daisy Buchanan and believes that through his wealth and lavish parties, he can win her back. Gatsby represents the American Dream, the idea that anyone can achieve success and wealth through hard work and determination. However, his pursuit of Daisy ultimately leads to his downfall.

Despite their differences, Tom and Gatsby share some similarities as well. Both men are deeply flawed characters who are motivated by their desires and insecurities. They both use their wealth and power to manipulate those around them, albeit in different ways. Tom uses his wealth to control Daisy and assert his dominance, while Gatsby uses his wealth to try to win Daisy's love. One key difference between Tom Buchanan and Jay Gatsby is their approach to wealth and status. Tom comes from old money and is comfortable in his privileged position in society. He flaunts his wealth and status, using it to assert his dominance over others. In contrast, Gatsby has worked his way up from a lower-class background to become rich and successful. However, he is never fully accepted by the old money elite, despite his extravagant parties and flashy lifestyle.

Analysis of Their Treatment of Daisy

An example of this can be seen in the way Tom and Gatsby treat Daisy. Tom sees Daisy as a possession, someone to be controlled and manipulated. He is possessive of her and treats her as an object rather than a person. Gatsby, on the other hand, idealizes Daisy and puts her on a pedestal. He is convinced that his wealth and status can win her back, but in doing so, he fails to see her as a real, flawed individual. This failure to recognize Daisy's humanity ultimately contributes to the tragic unfolding of events, illustrating the destructive nature of idealized love and obsession.

Attitudes Towards the Past

Another key difference between Tom and Gatsby is their attitudes towards the past. Tom is nostalgic for a time when things were simpler, when the old money elite ruled without challenge. He resists change and clings to the traditions of the past. Gatsby, on the other hand, is fixated on the future. He is constantly looking forward, believing that he can recreate the past and win back Daisy's love if he just works hard enough. In a scholarly article by literary critic Harold Bloom, he discusses the theme of wealth and class in The Great Gatsby, highlighting the differences between Tom Buchanan and Jay Gatsby. Bloom argues that Tom represents the decline of the old money elite, while Gatsby symbolizes the rise of the self-made man in American society (Bloom, 2003).

Conclusion

In conclusion, the characters of Tom Buchanan and Jay Gatsby in The Great Gatsby provide a nuanced exploration of wealth, power, and social class in 1920s America. While they may seem like polar opposites, they share common desires and flaws that drive their actions throughout the novel. By examining their differences and similarities, readers gain a deeper understanding of the complex themes and characters that Fitzgerald has created in this timeless classic. This analysis underscores the enduring relevance of Fitzgerald's work in exploring the intricacies of human nature and societal structures.

References:

• Bloom, H. (2003). The Great Gatsby: Modern Critical Interpretations. Chelsea House Publishers.
• Fitzgerald, F. S. (1925). The Great Gatsby. Charles Scribner's Sons.