East Egg Versus West Egg: Who is That?

Throughout F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel, The Great Gatsby, the stark contrast between East Egg and West Egg serves as a backdrop for exploring the themes of wealth, social status, and the pursuit of the American Dream. The residents of these two fictional locations, Tom and Daisy Buchanan in particular, embody the values and aspirations associated with their respective eggs. This essay will delve into the differences between the two eggs, examining how the East Egg residents, like Tom and Daisy, most value wealth and social status. By analyzing the implications of these values, we gain insight into the characters' motivations and the larger societal critique presented in the novel.

One of the central aspects that distinguishes East Egg from West Egg is the perception of wealth and how it is acquired. East Egg is home to those born into wealth, the "old money" aristocracy who consider themselves the cultural elite. The residents of East Egg, including Tom and Daisy Buchanan, value their inherited fortunes as symbols of their class and social standing. They uphold the traditions of their lineage, attending exclusive social events and maintaining the appearance of a refined and sophisticated lifestyle. In contrast, West Egg represents the "new money" individuals who have recently acquired wealth through entrepreneurial pursuits. These residents, such as Jay Gatsby, are often viewed with suspicion and disdain by the East Eggers, who believe that their wealth lacks the sanctity of inherited riches.

Tom and Daisy Buchanan, as quintessential East Egg residents, epitomize the values associated with their social class. Their primary focus lies in preserving their status and maintaining the facade of their privileged lives. Tom's obsession with wealth is evident in his affair with Myrtle Wilson, a working-class woman from the "valley of ashes," which symbolizes the decay of the American Dream. Tom's choice to engage in this illicit relationship stems from his desire to exert power and control over those he perceives as beneath him socially. Daisy, on the other hand, values her reputation and the luxurious trappings of her life in East Egg. She is willing to overlook her husband's infidelity and live a life of superficial happiness, as long as it does not jeopardize her position in society. Their actions and priorities reflect the East Egg mentality, where wealth and social status take precedence over morality and personal happiness.

The implications of the East Egg residents' values extend beyond their personal lives. Fitzgerald uses these characters to highlight the corruption and moral decay that can result from the pursuit of wealth and social standing. Tom and Daisy's indifference towards the consequences of their actions, their disregard for others' feelings, and their willingness to protect their own interests at any cost all contribute to the tragic events that unfold in the novel. Through their portrayal, Fitzgerald critiques the shallow nature of the East Egg society and questions the notion that wealth equates to happiness or fulfillment.

In conclusion, the residents of East Egg, particularly Tom and Daisy Buchanan, prioritize wealth and social status above all else. Their values, rooted in the old money aristocracy, shape their actions and influence the trajectory of the story. By examining the implications of these values, we gain a deeper understanding of the characters and the societal critique presented in The Great Gatsby. This novel serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us that the pursuit of wealth and social status can lead to moral decay and personal tragedy. As readers, we are left to contemplate the broader implications of this critique and consider the timeless relevance of Fitzgerald's portrayal of East Egg versus West Egg.

Bibliography:

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