To Blame for Gatsbys Death Analysis

The tragic death of Jay Gatsby in F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel, "The Great Gatsby," is a pivotal moment that raises questions about who is ultimately to blame for his demise. This essay will explore the various characters and circumstances that may have contributed to Gatsby's death, ultimately arguing that multiple factors played a role in his tragic end.

The debate over who is to blame for Gatsby's death has been a contentious topic among literary scholars and readers alike. Some argue that Gatsby's own choices and actions led to his downfall, while others point to the behaviors of those around him, such as Tom Buchanan and Daisy Buchanan, as contributing factors. Additionally, the societal expectations and norms of the time period in which the novel is set are also seen as influencing Gatsby's fate.

Throughout the novel, Gatsby's relentless pursuit of wealth and status, as well as his romantic idealization of Daisy, drive him to take risks that ultimately lead to his demise. Gatsby's involvement in illegal activities, such as bootlegging, and his association with shady characters like Meyer Wolfsheim, put him in a vulnerable position that ultimately leads to his tragic end. Gatsby's inability to let go of the past and his refusal to acknowledge the reality of Daisy's feelings for him also contribute to his downfall.

Tom Buchanan, Daisy's husband, also plays a significant role in Gatsby's death. Tom's jealousy and possessiveness over Daisy, as well as his manipulative actions throughout the novel, create a volatile and dangerous situation that ultimately leads to Gatsby's demise. Tom's decision to expose Gatsby's criminal activities to Daisy and others sets off a chain of events that culminate in Gatsby's death.

Furthermore, the societal norms and expectations of the 1920s, particularly the emphasis on wealth, status, and appearances, also contribute to Gatsby's downfall. Gatsby's relentless pursuit of the American Dream, as well as his desire to be accepted by East Egg society, push him to take risks and make choices that ultimately lead to his tragic end.

One example of how Gatsby's own choices contribute to his downfall is his decision to pursue Daisy Buchanan at all costs. Despite knowing that Daisy is married to Tom Buchanan, Gatsby becomes fixated on the idea of rekindling their past romance. This obsession with Daisy leads Gatsby to engage in reckless behavior, such as throwing lavish parties in the hopes of attracting her attention. Gatsby's inability to see Daisy for who she truly is, and his refusal to accept the reality of their relationship, ultimately leads to his tragic end.

Another example of how external factors contribute to Gatsby's death is the role of Daisy Buchanan in the events leading up to the tragedy. Daisy's inability to choose between Gatsby and Tom, as well as her own selfish desires, create a situation in which Gatsby is ultimately doomed. Daisy's actions, such as running over Myrtle Wilson with Gatsby's car and allowing Gatsby to take the blame, demonstrate her willingness to prioritize her own comfort and safety over the well-being of others. This betrayal by Daisy, coupled with her inability to stand up to Tom and make a definitive choice, sets the stage for Gatsby's demise.

Additionally, the societal expectations and norms of the 1920s contribute to Gatsby's downfall by placing an emphasis on material wealth and superficial appearances. In the world of East Egg society, where Gatsby longs to belong, success is measured by one's bank account and social standing. Gatsby's relentless pursuit of wealth and status, as well as his desire to be accepted by those around him, drive him to engage in illegal activities and take risks that ultimately lead to his downfall. The pressure to conform to societal expectations, as well as the temptation to achieve success at any cost, ultimately prove to be Gatsby's undoing.

In conclusion, the death of Jay Gatsby in "The Great Gatsby" is the result of a complex interplay of factors, including his own choices and actions, the behaviors of those around him, and the societal norms of the time period. While Gatsby bears some responsibility for his own fate, the influence of others and the expectations of society also play a significant role in his tragic end. Ultimately, Gatsby's death serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of pursuing wealth and status without considering the consequences, and the importance of letting go of the past in order to move forward.