Great Gatsby: Tragic Hero Analysis

Before we can determine whether Gatsby is a tragic hero, we must first understand the definition of a tragic hero. According to Aristotle, a tragic hero is a character who is noble and virtuous but has a fatal flaw that leads to their downfall. The tragic hero experiences a reversal of fortune, or peripeteia, and recognizes their own role in their downfall. The audience experiences catharsis, or a purging of emotions, through the tragic hero's suffering.

Gatsby's Nobility and Virtue

One of the key aspects of a tragic hero is their nobility and virtue. Gatsby, whose real name is James Gatz, is a self-made man who has amassed great wealth through hard work and determination. Despite his shady past and involvement in illegal activities, Gatsby is portrayed as a romantic and idealistic figure. He is deeply in love with Daisy Buchanan and is willing to do anything to win her back, including throwing extravagant parties and buying a mansion across from her home.

Gatsby's Fatal Flaw

Gatsby's fatal flaw is his obsession with the past and his inability to let go of his idealized vision of Daisy. He believes that he can recreate the past and win Daisy back, despite the fact that she is now married to Tom Buchanan. Gatsby's single-minded pursuit of Daisy blinds him to the reality of her feelings and the consequences of his actions. This flaw ultimately leads to his downfall.

Reversal of Fortune and Recognition

Gatsby's reversal of fortune occurs when Daisy chooses to stay with Tom instead of leaving him for Gatsby. This event shatters Gatsby's illusion of the past and leads to his realization that he cannot change the circumstances of his life. He recognizes his role in his own downfall and acknowledges that his obsession with Daisy has ultimately led to his demise.

Catharsis

The audience experiences catharsis through Gatsby's suffering and eventual death. Gatsby's tragic end serves as a warning about the dangers of living in the past and the consequences of being unable to let go of unrealistic dreams. The audience is left with a sense of pity for Gatsby and a recognition of the tragic nature of his character.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Jay Gatsby can be considered a tragic hero according to the criteria set forth by Aristotle. He possesses nobility and virtue, a fatal flaw, experiences a reversal of fortune, and recognizes his role in his downfall. The audience experiences catharsis through his suffering and demise. Gatsby's tragic story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of living in the past and the consequences of being unable to let go of unrealistic dreams. Through the character of Gatsby, F. Scott Fitzgerald creates a timeless and compelling tragic hero.