Myrtle's Pursuit of The American Dream: Insights from Her Relationship Dynamics

Introduction to Myrtle's Ambitions

In F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby," Myrtle Wilson emerges as a character driven by her unquenchable thirst for the American Dream. Unlike others in the novel who pursue this elusive dream through wealth, status, or love, Myrtle's approach is more complicated and deeply intertwined with her relationships—especially with Tom Buchanan. Her aspirations, fueled by desires for social mobility and personal fulfillment, ultimately highlight the pitfalls of her pursuit. This essay will delve into how Myrtle's relationship dynamics reflect her ambitions and provide insights into the broader theme of the American Dream within the narrative.

Myrtle’s Background and Initial Dreams

Myrtle Wilson represents a specific segment of society that yearns for a better life, yet feels trapped by its circumstances. Living in the desolate area known as the Valley of Ashes, she embodies the struggles faced by many during the Roaring Twenties—a time marked by stark economic divides and burgeoning materialism. From her initial appearance in the novel, we see that she is dissatisfied with her working-class existence and longs for something greater.

This longing becomes manifest through her affair with Tom Buchanan, a man emblematic of old money and privilege. To Myrtle, Tom symbolizes an escape from her mundane life; he offers not just romance but also a glimpse into a world filled with luxury and social standing that she craves. However, it's essential to recognize that Myrtle’s infatuation is not merely about love; it’s about ambition—her desire to ascend from her lower status into a realm she believes will bring happiness and fulfillment.

The Illusion of Power

In many ways, Myrtle perceives herself as powerful when she is with Tom. She revels in moments where she can momentarily shed her old identity as “the wife of George Wilson,” becoming instead “Myrtle Buchanan.” This transformation highlights how relationships can serve as catalysts for self-perception and ambition. With Tom's affluence comes an illusion of power; for instance, when they visit New York City together, Myrtle embodies confidence while flaunting wealth through extravagant purchases.

However, this perceived power is short-lived and precarious. Tom treats Myrtle more like an object than an equal partner—a reflection of his own privilege where women often serve merely to enhance male dominance rather than share genuine partnership or mutual respect. The tragic irony here lies in how Myrtle seeks empowerment through a relationship based on inequality; despite believing she has gained access to elite circles through Tom's influence, she remains trapped within another form of subjugation.

The Consequences of Unfulfilled Aspirations

Myrtle's relentless pursuit leads to devastating consequences—not only for herself but also for those around her. As much as she tries to immerse herself in Tom's lavish lifestyle—throwing parties at his apartment or donning fashionable attire—it becomes clear that these superficial elements do not fulfill deeper emotional needs or aspirations.

This disconnect reveals itself tragically when Daisy Buchanan enters the picture; despite being treated as if she's simply disposable material in Tom's life—as seen when he breaks off their affair without any concern—Myrtle cannot break free from what he represents: wealth coupled with unattainability. In attempting to assert independence while clinging desperately to this façade created by their affair, she loses sight not only of who she once was but also who she truly wanted to become.

The Climactic Downfall

The climax comes swiftly following Myrtle’s desperate attempt at asserting herself one last time—running out into traffic after seeing Gatsby’s car (mistaking it for Tom’s). In this moment—the intersection between aspiration gone wrong—we witness Fitzgerald’s critique on the American Dream itself: how relentless pursuit can lead individuals toward catastrophic ends rather than success or fulfillment.

Myrtle pays dearly because instead of seizing control over destiny via authentic relationships built upon mutual respect (like what Jay Gatsby ultimately attempts), she pursues hollow ambitions rooted solely in appearances defined largely by male approval or validation—which tragically results only in death rather than liberation.

Conclusion: The Price of Ambition

Myrtle Wilson serves as an intriguing case study within Fitzgerald's critique surrounding America's collective obsession with upward mobility—the notion that wealth equals happiness—and its far-reaching consequences on individual lives wrapped up intricately within unhealthy relational dynamics along gender lines throughout "The Great Gatsby." While embodying hope initially imbued throughout dreams held tight against societal constraints led ultimately towards tragedy brings forth powerful commentary regarding gender roles alongside critiques concerning existing class disparities among 1920s America still resonating today.","}

References

• Fitzgerald, F.S., & R.W., "The Great Gatsby." Scribner Classics.
• Cawelti J.G., “Adventure Fiction: A Critical Guide.” Chicago University Press.
• Baker C.E., “Social Class Structure in F.Scott Fitzgerald’s ‘The Great Gatsby’.” Journal Of Modern Literature.
• Davis P.A., "Gender Roles And Their Impact On Relationships In The 1920s." Feminist Studies Review.
• Sternberg R.J., "Love Is Not All: Philosophy And Psychology Of Romantic Relationships." Yale University Press.