First Impressions of Tom Buchanan in The Great Gatsby

The Great Gatsby, written by F. Scott Fitzgerald, is a novel set in the 1920s that explores the lives of wealthy individuals in the fictional town of West Egg, New York. One of the central characters in the book is Tom Buchanan, a wealthy and arrogant man married to Daisy Buchanan. This essay will examine the first impressions of Tom Buchanan as portrayed in the text and analyze his character through various aspects such as his physical appearance, behavior, and dialogue. By doing so, we can gain a deeper understanding of Tom's personality and his role in the story.

Tom Buchanan's first impression is established through his physical appearance. Fitzgerald describes him as a "sturdy, straw-haired man of thirty with a rather hard mouth and a supercilious manner" (Fitzgerald, 11). This description immediately creates an image of a man who exudes confidence and dominance. His physical attributes, such as his strong build and the way he carries himself, suggest power and authority. This initial impression aligns with the typical characteristics of the upper class during this time period, where physical appearance played a significant role in determining one's social standing.

In addition to his physical appearance, Tom's behavior further reinforces the impression of him as an arrogant and self-absorbed individual. When he arrives at Nick Carraway's house, he immediately takes control of the conversation and dominates the room with his loud voice and forceful gestures. This behavior is evident when Tom interrupts Nick's narration, saying, "Don't believe everything you hear, Nick" (Fitzgerald, 7). Such actions highlight Tom's need for control and his disregard for others' opinions. His behavior suggests that he believes his own voice is more important and valid than anyone else's.

Furthermore, Tom's dialogue reveals his misogynistic and racist tendencies, adding to the negative impression formed upon first meeting him. For instance, during a conversation about books, Tom dismissively claims, "It's up to us, who are the dominant race, to watch out or these other races will have control of things" (Fitzgerald, 17). This statement not only reflects his racist beliefs but also his sense of entitlement and superiority. His dialogue portrays him as someone who believes he has the right to dictate the course of society based on his own views, regardless of their ethical implications.

Tom Buchanan's first impression in The Great Gatsby aligns with the academic convention of analyzing a character's initial portrayal in a literary work. By examining his physical appearance, behavior, and dialogue, it becomes evident that he is an arrogant and self-centered individual. However, it is important to note that first impressions can be deceiving, and further exploration of Tom's character may provide a more nuanced understanding of his motivations and actions.

In conclusion, Tom Buchanan's first impression in The Great Gatsby is one of arrogance and dominance. His physical appearance, behavior, and dialogue all contribute to this initial portrayal. However, it is crucial to remember that first impressions may not always accurately represent a character's true nature. By delving deeper into Tom's character, readers can uncover the complexities and motivations that drive his actions. This further analysis is necessary to fully understand the role he plays in the novel and the broader themes explored by Fitzgerald. Overall, Tom Buchanan's first impression serves as a starting point for a more comprehensive examination of his character and the social dynamics depicted in The Great Gatsby.

Bibliography

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