The Great Gatsby: a Rhetorical Analysis

Introduction

"The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald is widely regarded as one of the greatest American novels. It explores themes like wealth, love, and the decay of the American Dream, with characters caught up in the social fabric of the Roaring Twenties. This essay will examine the rhetorical techniques Fitzgerald uses to convey deeper meanings within the story. By focusing on how imagery, persuasion, and elegant language are utilized, we can better understand the novel's exploration of societal issues and personal aspirations.

Rhetorical Analysis of "The Great Gatsby"

Imagery as a Tool for Immersion and Meaning

Fitzgerald's use of vivid imagery in "The Great Gatsby" immerses readers in the world of the Jazz Age. The extravagant parties at Gatsby’s mansion, described as “riotous excursions,” highlight the decadence of the era. Fitzgerald writes, “men and girls came and went like moths among the whisperings and the champagne and the stars” (Fitzgerald, 43). This visual imagery not only transports the reader into the scene but also comments on the superficiality that lies beneath the glamorous exterior.

Additionally, Fitzgerald uses symbols like the green light at the end of Daisy’s dock to deepen the meaning of the narrative. The green light symbolizes Gatsby’s unattainable dreams and unrequited love. “Possibly it had occurred to him that the colossal significance of that light had now vanished forever” (Fitzgerald, 90). Through this powerful symbolism, Fitzgerald critiques the fleeting nature of the American Dream and the disillusionment that comes with its pursuit.

Persuasion and Emotional Appeal

Fitzgerald skillfully uses persuasion to evoke sympathy for characters who might otherwise seem morally ambiguous. Jay Gatsby, for example, is a man who built his wealth through questionable means, but his quest for love and acceptance makes him a relatable figure. Fitzgerald uses flashbacks to reveal Gatsby’s humble beginnings, particularly his unwavering dedication to Daisy. These glimpses into Gatsby’s past humanize him, encouraging readers to empathize with his pursuit of a dream, despite his flaws.

The novel also employs irony to critique societal values. For instance, Tom Buchanan’s arrogance and entitlement are revealed through his racist views and extramarital affair. Fitzgerald writes, “The idea is if we don’t look out, the white race will be—will be utterly submerged” (Fitzgerald, 17). The irony of Tom’s words, contrasted with his actions, exposes the hypocrisy of the upper class, challenging the reader to confront the moral decay present in society.

The Elegance and Impact of Fitzgerald’s Language

Fitzgerald’s command of language is another key element of his rhetorical effectiveness. His poetic prose is not only elegant but also laden with meaning. The famous line, “Her voice is full of money” (Fitzgerald, 128), succinctly captures Daisy’s allure while also reflecting the materialism of the society in which she lives. Fitzgerald’s language elevates the novel, making it not only a critique of the era but also an exploration of human desires and the consequences of those desires.

Additionally, Fitzgerald’s use of rhetorical devices like repetition and parallelism serves to emphasize key themes in the narrative. The repeated phrase, “So we beat on, boats against the current, borne back ceaselessly into the past” (Fitzgerald, 180), highlights the characters’ inability to escape their pasts. This repetition reinforces the novel's tragic tone, underscoring the futility of trying to recapture lost dreams.

Counterarguments

While many readers admire Fitzgerald’s rhetorical techniques, some critics argue that the novel’s portrayal of wealth and materialism is overly negative. They claim that Fitzgerald’s focus on the moral decay of the upper class does not adequately address the complexities of American society in the 1920s. However, this critique overlooks the novel’s broader commentary on the unattainability of the American Dream and the illusion of upward mobility, which resonates with readers even today.

Moreover, some may contend that Gatsby’s tragic end is too harsh a judgment on his aspirations. Yet, this tragedy is precisely what drives home the novel's central message: the dangers of idealizing the past and the inability to recapture lost innocence. Fitzgerald’s use of irony and symbolism serves not only to critique Gatsby’s pursuit but also to reflect the emptiness of the American Dream itself.

Conclusion

In conclusion, F. Scott Fitzgerald’s "The Great Gatsby" masterfully employs rhetorical strategies such as imagery, symbolism, irony, and elegant language to explore complex themes of love, wealth, and the American Dream. Through these devices, Fitzgerald critiques the moral decay of the Jazz Age and offers a timeless reflection on the pursuit of happiness and the disillusionment that often accompanies it. The novel remains an enduring masterpiece, with its rhetorical richness continuing to engage readers and provoke thought long after its publication.

References

• Fitzgerald, F. S. (1925). The Great Gatsby. Charles Scribner's Sons.
• Curnutt, K. (2004). A Historical Guide to F. Scott Fitzgerald. Oxford University Press.
• Tate, M., & Halliwell-Phillipps G.W., eds., (1998). Critical Essays on F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby. G.K. Hall & Co.
• Berman R.A., (2017). The Great Gatsby and Modern Times: From Racial History to Imaginary Dialogues Series; American Literature Readings in the Twenty-First Century Series. Palgrave Macmillan US Publishing Ltd.