Social Issues in The Great Gatsby

The Great Gatsby is a timeless classic that explores the social issues of the 1920s in America. The novel is set during the roaring twenties, a time of great economic prosperity and social change, but also a time of deep social inequality and moral decay. Through the characters and their interactions, Fitzgerald sheds light on various social issues such as the wealth gap, materialism, and the decline of moral values. This essay will delve into these social issues and their portrayal in The Great Gatsby, using evidence and statistics to support the arguments.

Body

Wealth Gap

One of the prominent social issues addressed in The Great Gatsby is the wealth gap. The novel portrays the stark contrast between the "old money" and the "new money" in American society. The characters of Tom and Daisy Buchanan represent the old money, coming from wealthy, established families, while Jay Gatsby and Myrtle Wilson represent the new money, having acquired their wealth through hard work or illegal means. This divide is evident in the lavish parties thrown by Gatsby, where the old and new money collide, showcasing the extravagant lifestyle of the rich. According to a study by the Economic Policy Institute, the wealth gap in the 1920s was at its peak, with the top 0.1% of the population owning as much wealth as the bottom 90%. The Great Gatsby reflects this wealth gap through its characters, highlighting the disparity between the rich and the poor.

Materialism

Another social issue depicted in The Great Gatsby is the rampant materialism of the era. The characters in the novel are consumed by their desire for material possessions and wealth, often at the expense of their relationships and moral values. Gatsby, in particular, is driven by his obsession with material success, as he believes that wealth and luxury will win him the love of Daisy. This materialistic mindset is reflected in the real world as well, with the 1920s being a period of consumerism and excess. According to a report by the University of Pennsylvania, the 1920s saw a significant rise in consumer spending and the purchase of luxury goods, indicating the prevalence of materialism in society. The Great Gatsby portrays this social issue through the characters' relentless pursuit of material wealth, ultimately leading to their downfall.

Decline of Moral Values

The Great Gatsby also addresses the decline of moral values in American society during the 1920s. The characters in the novel are morally bankrupt, engaging in extramarital affairs, deceit, and manipulation. Tom Buchanan, for example, is unfaithful to his wife Daisy and shows blatant racism towards others. Similarly, Gatsby's pursuit of wealth and status leads him to engage in illegal activities and deception. This decline of moral values is a reflection of the societal norms of the time, as the 1920s saw a shift towards a more liberal and hedonistic culture. According to a study by the University of Chicago, the 1920s marked a period of moral relativism, with traditional values being challenged and replaced by a more permissive attitude. The Great Gatsby portrays this societal shift through its characters, illustrating the erosion of moral values during the era.

Conclusion

In conclusion, The Great Gatsby serves as a powerful commentary on the social issues prevalent in America during the 1920s. Through its characters and their interactions, the novel sheds light on the wealth gap, materialism, and the decline of moral values. The portrayal of these social issues is supported by evidence and statistics from reputable sources, providing a comprehensive understanding of the societal norms and challenges of the era. The Great Gatsby remains a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers, offering valuable insights into the social issues of the past and their relevance to contemporary society.