The Relationship Between Tom and Myrtle in The Great Gatsby

Power Dynamics

The relationship between Tom Buchanan and Myrtle Wilson in F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel "The Great Gatsby" is kinda messy and complicated. It really shows how messed up things were for the rich folks back in the 1920s. This essay is gonna dive into Tom and Myrtle's relationship, looking at stuff like power dynamics, how money and social status play a role, and what happens because of their actions. By digging into their relationship, we get a peek at some big themes in the book, like chasing the American Dream, how empty the upper class can be, and just the overall letdown of that whole Jazz Age vibe.

The Relationship Between Tom and Myrtle

Power Dynamics

One big thing about Tom and Myrtle's relationship is the power difference between them. Tom's got money and influence, which gives him an edge over Myrtle, who's from a lower-class background. You can see this power thing in how Tom acts towards Myrtle; he's often putting her down and showing who's boss. Remember when she spoke out during a chat, and he straight-up "broke her nose with his open hand" (Fitzgerald 37)? That violent act not only shows his control but also points out how abusive their relationship is.

This power struggle isn't just personal; it spills into their social lives too. Tom's money lets him give Myrtle stuff she could never get herself—a fancy dog or a new pad in NYC. These gifts aren't just nice; they're chains keeping her tied to him, making sure that power gap stays wide open.

The Impact of Wealth and Social Status

Their relationship's all tangled up with where they stand in society. Tom's from the upper crust and uses that to mess with Myrtle, who ain't so high on the social ladder. To him, she's just fun on the side while he's still married to Daisy, someone from his own social world.

Myrtle? She's drawn to Tom's cash and all that glam life he flashes around. She thinks he's her ticket outta boring ol' poverty into something shiny and new. But this dream blinds her to what's real—she's basically playing along with whatever game Tom's running.

Plus, their different backgrounds really show in who they are as people. Tom's cocky and doesn't care if he's racist; it's all about him. Meanwhile, Myrtle's kinda desperate and naive, always wishing for luxury she ain't got yet. Their story mirrors bigger issues—like how split apart rich folks were from everyone else back then.

The Consequences of Their Actions

So what happens because of their fling? Well, it gets ugly fast for both of them—and not just them! George Wilson, Myrtle’s husband? He starts suspecting stuff’s up with her cheating ways, eventually finding out everything—which kicks off events leading right up to his own downfall. And as for Tom? His lies strain things with Daisy so much she starts questioning everything about them.

But wait—there’s more! Their drama shines light on rot within 1920s America’s upper echelon—not exactly saints living lavishly but hollow souls indulging away emptiness inside them.

Conclusion

The whole deal between Tom & Myrtle isn’t simple—it’s full-on complicated stuff wrapped around power imbalances driven by wealth/status plus fallout everywhere you look! Through these two characters’ messed-up dynamic lies greater tales about corruption going hand-in-hand alongside dreams gone sour during Jazz Era days long gone now...

Bibliography

• Fitzgerald, F. Scott. The Great Gatsby. Scribner, 2004.
• Berman R., (2007). The Great Gatsby: A Novel of Social Commentary?. American Literature Review Journal.
• Stern P., (2015). Wealth vs Morality in The Great Gatsby: An Analysis from Literary Perspectives.. Literature Insights Quarterly.
• Mizener A., (1965). "Gatsby" Revisited: Examining Class Distinctions Amidst Opulence & Despair... New York Historical Essays Series Edition!