The Relationship Between Tom and Myrtle in The Great Gatsby

The relationship between Tom Buchanan and Myrtle Wilson in F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel, "The Great Gatsby," is a complex and tumultuous one. Their affair represents the corruption and moral decay that permeates the lives of the wealthy elite in the 1920s. This essay will explore the dynamics of Tom and Myrtle's relationship, examining the power dynamics, the impact of wealth and social status, and the consequences of their actions. By analyzing their relationship, we gain insight into the broader themes of the novel, such as the pursuit of the American Dream, the hollowness of the upper class, and the disillusionment of the Jazz Age.

Power Dynamics

One of the key aspects of Tom and Myrtle's relationship is the power imbalance that exists between them. Tom, as a wealthy and influential man, holds a position of authority over Myrtle, who is a lower-class woman. This power dynamic is evident in the way Tom treats Myrtle, often belittling her and asserting his dominance. For instance, when Myrtle speaks out of turn during a conversation, Tom "broke her nose with his open hand" (Fitzgerald 37). This act of violence not only reveals his control over her but also highlights the abusive nature of their relationship.

The power dynamics between Tom and Myrtle also extend to their social interactions. Tom's wealth and social status allow him to provide Myrtle with a lifestyle she could never afford on her own. He lavishes her with expensive gifts, such as a dog and a new apartment in New York City. These material possessions serve as a form of control, binding Myrtle to Tom and perpetuating the power imbalance between them.

The Impact of Wealth and Social Status

Tom and Myrtle's relationship is heavily influenced by their respective positions in society. Tom, as a member of the wealthy upper class, is able to manipulate and exploit Myrtle due to her lower social status. He uses her as a source of entertainment and a means to fulfill his desires, while still maintaining his marriage with Daisy, a woman of his own social standing.

Myrtle, on the other hand, is attracted to Tom's wealth and the glamorous lifestyle that he represents. She sees him as a ticket to a better life, away from the poverty and mediocrity of her own circumstances. This desire for social mobility blinds her to the reality of her situation, and she willingly becomes a pawn in Tom's game of manipulation.

Furthermore, the wealth and social status of Tom and Myrtle create a stark contrast in their personalities and values. Tom is arrogant, entitled, and unapologetically racist, while Myrtle is desperate, naive, and yearning for a life of luxury. Their relationship becomes a microcosm of the wider social divisions and inequalities of the time, highlighting the stark differences between the upper and lower classes.

The Consequences of Their Actions

The relationship between Tom and Myrtle ultimately leads to tragic consequences for both of them. Their affair not only destroys their own lives but also has a ripple effect on those around them. Myrtle's husband, George Wilson, becomes suspicious of her infidelity and eventually discovers the truth, leading to a series of events that culminate in his own demise. Similarly, Tom's deceit and betrayal strain his marriage with Daisy, causing her to question their relationship and ultimately leading to the unraveling of their once picture-perfect facade.

Furthermore, the consequences of Tom and Myrtle's actions extend beyond their immediate circle. Their affair exposes the moral decay and corruption that plagues the upper class of 1920s America. It serves as a reflection of the hedonistic and self-indulgent lifestyle pursued by the wealthy elite, highlighting the emptiness and disillusionment that lies beneath the surface of their glamorous parties and extravagant lifestyles.

Conclusion

The relationship between Tom and Myrtle in "The Great Gatsby" is a complex and multifaceted one, marked by power imbalances, the influence of wealth and social status, and devastating consequences. Through their relationship, Fitzgerald explores broader themes of corruption, the pursuit of the American Dream, and the disillusionment of the Jazz Age. Tom and Myrtle's affair acts as a microcosm of the moral decay and hollowness that exists within the upper class, shedding light on the dark underbelly of the Roaring Twenties. As readers, we are left to contemplate the implications of their relationship and the broader societal implications it represents.

Bibliography

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