Great Gatsby Symbolism and Symbols

The Great Gatsby, written by F. Scott Fitzgerald, is a classic novel that explores themes of wealth, love, and the American Dream. Throughout the text, Fitzgerald uses various symbols to convey deeper meanings and enhance the reader's understanding of the characters and their motivations. This essay will analyze the symbolism in The Great Gatsby and how it contributes to the overall themes of the novel.

Symbolism of the Green Light

One of the most prominent symbols in The Great Gatsby is the green light at the end of Daisy's dock. This green light represents Gatsby's longing for Daisy and his pursuit of the American Dream. Gatsby believes that if he can just reach the green light, he will be able to achieve happiness and fulfillment.

This symbolism is evident in the text when Gatsby first sees the green light. Fitzgerald writes, "He stretched out his arms toward the dark water in a curious way, and far as I was from him, I could have sworn he was trembling. Involuntarily I glanced seaward—and distinguished nothing except a single green light, minute and far away" (Fitzgerald, 25). This scene not only highlights Gatsby's desire for Daisy, but also his belief in the power of the American Dream to transform his life.

The green light also represents the illusion of the American Dream. Gatsby believes that wealth and material possessions will bring him happiness, but in reality, they only lead to his downfall. This is seen when Gatsby throws extravagant parties and surrounds himself with wealth, yet remains unfulfilled and empty inside.

Symbolism of the Valley of Ashes

Another significant symbol in The Great Gatsby is the valley of ashes. This desolate and barren place represents the moral decay and corruption of society. It serves as a stark contrast to the luxurious and glamorous world of the wealthy characters.

The valley of ashes is described as "a fantastic farm where ashes grow like wheat into ridges and hills and grotesque gardens" (Fitzgerald, 27). This imagery highlights the industrialization and materialism that have overtaken society, leaving behind a wasteland of broken dreams and lost hope.

The valley of ashes also symbolizes the impossibility of the American Dream for those in the lower social classes. Characters like George Wilson, who live in the valley of ashes, are trapped in poverty and struggle to improve their circumstances. Their dreams are shattered, much like the broken billboard of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg that overlooks the valley.

Symbolism of the Eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg

The eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg are a recurring symbol throughout The Great Gatsby. These giant, faded eyes on a billboard represent the judgment and moral decay of society. They serve as a constant reminder of the characters' shallow and corrupt behavior.

The eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg watch over the valley of ashes, silently observing the immoral actions of those around them. This symbolism is evident when Wilson confronts Tom Buchanan about his affair with Myrtle. Fitzgerald writes, "Wilson's glazed eyes turned out to the ash heaps, where small gray clouds took on fantastic shapes and scurried here and there in the faint dawn wind" (Fitzgerald, 137). The eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg witness the consequences of the characters' actions and serve as a moral compass in a world devoid of values.

Conclusion

The symbolism in The Great Gatsby adds depth and complexity to the novel, allowing readers to explore the themes of wealth, love, and the American Dream on a deeper level. The green light, the valley of ashes, and the eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg all contribute to the overall narrative and enhance the reader's understanding of the characters and their motivations.

By analyzing these symbols, we can see how Fitzgerald comments on the illusion of the American Dream, the moral decay of society, and the consequences of pursuing wealth and material possessions. The Great Gatsby serves as a cautionary tale about the emptiness and futility of the pursuit of wealth, and the symbols used by Fitzgerald help to convey this message effectively.

In conclusion, the symbolism in The Great Gatsby is a crucial element of the novel that aligns with academic essay writing conventions. By examining the green light, the valley of ashes, and the eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the themes and messages of the novel. The Great Gatsby symbol essay serves as a reminder that true happiness and fulfillment cannot be found in wealth and material possessions, but rather in genuine human connections and the pursuit of meaningful goals.

Bibliography

Fitzgerald, F. Scott. The Great Gatsby. Scribner, 2004.