Symbolism of The House in The Great Gatsby

The concept of symbolism is prevalent throughout F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel, The Great Gatsby. One of the most significant symbols in the novel is Gatsby's house. This opulent and extravagant mansion serves as a representation of Gatsby's character, his aspirations, and the corrupt nature of the American Dream. By examining the symbolism of Gatsby's house, we can gain a deeper understanding of the themes and messages conveyed in the novel. This essay will explore the symbolism of Gatsby's house, emphasizing its role in portraying the illusionary nature of wealth and the hollowness of the American Dream.

The Illusion of Wealth

Gatsby's house is described as a "colossal affair" (Fitzgerald, 11), a grand mansion that exudes a sense of extravagance and excess. The house is located in West Egg, a wealthy neighborhood on Long Island, which is inhabited by "new money" individuals like Gatsby. The opulence of Gatsby's house serves as a facade, masking the reality of his newfound wealth. Gatsby's lavish parties, filled with people who have no genuine connection to him, are a reflection of this illusionary wealth. The house becomes a symbol of the superficiality and emptiness that often accompany material success.

The house itself is described as a "huge cardboard box" (Fitzgerald, 83), highlighting the flimsy and temporary nature of Gatsby's wealth. Like the cardboard box, Gatsby's fortune is fragile and easily destroyed. The false sense of security and stability provided by the house represents Gatsby's desperate attempt to hold onto his illusory dreams of wealth and happiness.

The American Dream Gone Wrong

Gatsby's house symbolizes the corrupt nature of the American Dream, which is a prominent theme in the novel. The American Dream, the belief that anyone can achieve success and prosperity through hard work and determination, is portrayed as a hollow promise. Gatsby's house, with its excessive material possessions and extravagant parties, represents the distorted version of the American Dream that prioritizes wealth and social status over genuine happiness and fulfillment.

Gatsby's house stands in stark contrast to the neighboring mansion of Tom and Daisy Buchanan. While Gatsby's house is filled with material wealth, it lacks the warmth and authenticity present in the Buchanan's home. The Buchanans, who were born into wealth, represent the old money aristocracy that Gatsby aspires to be a part of. However, Gatsby's house, despite its grandeur, fails to provide him with the acceptance and social status he desires. This contrast highlights the emptiness and futility of pursuing the American Dream solely for material gain.

The Loss of Identity

Another aspect of the symbolism of Gatsby's house is its role in representing the loss of identity. Gatsby, originally named James Gatz, creates a new persona for himself in order to fit into the upper-class society. His house becomes a physical manifestation of his constructed identity. The house is designed to impress and intimidate, with its gaudy decorations and excessive display of wealth.

However, behind the facade of his house, Gatsby's true identity is lost. He becomes so consumed by his pursuit of wealth and Daisy Buchanan that he loses sight of who he truly is. The house, with its extravagant parties and constant flow of people, serves as a distraction from Gatsby's inner emptiness and loneliness. It becomes a symbol of his desperate attempts to reinvent himself and escape his past.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Gatsby's house in The Great Gatsby serves as a powerful symbol throughout the novel, representing the illusionary nature of wealth, the corrupt version of the American Dream, and the loss of identity. The house's opulence and grandeur mask the emptiness and superficiality that often accompany material success. It serves as a reminder that true happiness and fulfillment cannot be found in the pursuit of wealth alone. Instead, Fitzgerald suggests that the American Dream should be redefined to prioritize authenticity, genuine connections, and personal growth. By examining the symbolism of Gatsby's house, we gain a deeper understanding of the themes and messages conveyed in the novel, allowing us to reflect on the broader implications of the American Dream in our own lives.

Bibliography

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