Myrtle's Death in The Great Gatsby Analysis: Unveiling Symbolism

Myrtle's Death in The Great Gatsby Analysis: Unveiling Symbolism

The Great Gatsby, written by F. Scott Fitzgerald, is a classic novel that explores the glamorous and corrupt lifestyle of the wealthy elite in 1920s America. Amidst the opulence and decadence, the death of Myrtle Wilson, a working-class woman, stands out as a pivotal moment in the narrative. This essay aims to analyze the symbolism behind Myrtle's death, exploring its deeper implications and its contribution to the overarching themes of the novel.

The Symbolism of Myrtle's Death

Myrtle's death in The Great Gatsby symbolizes the destructive consequences of pursuing the American Dream and the illusion of social mobility. Throughout the novel, Fitzgerald uses Myrtle's character to represent the aspirations of the lower class and their desperate attempts to rise above their station. By examining the circumstances surrounding her death, we can unravel the layers of symbolism embedded within the narrative.

One of the key symbols related to Myrtle's death is the yellow car that fatally strikes her. The car, owned by the wealthy and mysterious Jay Gatsby, represents the materialism and excess that permeate the lives of the upper class. This symbolizes how the pursuit of wealth and status ultimately leads to destruction and tragedy. The yellow color is also significant, as it is associated with deceit and corruption, further highlighting the moral decay that underlies the characters' lives.

Furthermore, Myrtle's death takes place in the Valley of Ashes, a desolate and decaying wasteland that serves as a stark contrast to the extravagant world of the wealthy. This setting symbolizes the hollowness and emptiness of the American Dream, as it reveals the harsh reality faced by those who strive for upward social mobility. Myrtle's demise in this desolate landscape underscores the futility of her aspirations and the inevitable downfall of those who attempt to transcend their social class.

The Implications of Myrtle's Death

Myrtle's death holds significant implications for the characters in the novel, particularly Gatsby, Daisy, and Tom Buchanan. Firstly, Gatsby's involvement in Myrtle's death highlights the destructive consequences of his obsession with Daisy and his relentless pursuit of material wealth. Despite his attempts to reinvent himself and erase his humble origins, Gatsby's fatal flaw is his inability to escape the consequences of his actions. Myrtle's death serves as a reminder that his illusory world is built on a foundation of lies and superficiality.

For Daisy, Myrtle's death exposes her moral ambiguity and her willingness to manipulate others for her own benefit. Daisy's decision to drive Gatsby's car after the accident signifies her desire to protect her own social standing at the expense of others. This further demonstrates the corruption and moral decay prevalent among the upper class, as they prioritize their own interests above the lives of those less fortunate.

Lastly, Tom Buchanan's role in Myrtle's death reveals his callous disregard for the lives of those beneath him. Tom's affair with Myrtle and his subsequent refusal to take responsibility for her death showcase his privilege and his sense of entitlement. This highlights the underlying power dynamics and social inequality that drive the characters' actions throughout the novel.

Conclusion

Myrtle's death in The Great Gatsby serves as a powerful symbol that exposes the destructive consequences of pursuing the American Dream and the illusion of social mobility. Through the symbolism of the yellow car and the desolate Valley of Ashes, Fitzgerald highlights the moral decay and emptiness that underlie the lives of the characters. Myrtle's death also reveals the true nature of the wealthy elite, exposing their moral ambiguity and callous disregard for those beneath them. By analyzing the implications of Myrtle's death, we gain a deeper understanding of the themes and messages conveyed in The Great Gatsby, allowing us to reflect on the broader implications of the novel and its relevance to contemporary society.

Bibliography:

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