Social Stratification in "The Great Gatsby"

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Fitzgerald's portrayal of the West Eggers as the 'new rich' in "The Great Gatsby" highlights their ostentatious nature, quick accumulation of wealth, and lack of deep connections or aristocratic values. This is exemplified through the lavish displays of wealth seen in Gatsby's mansion. In contrast, the East Eggers are depicted as the old rich, who are more aristocratic and connected to traditional values. Despite these differences, both groups share a common trait of flaunting their material success and indulging in pleasures.

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The Valley of Ashes serves as a stark contrast to both the East and West Egg, symbolizing the desolation and decay that exists beneath the surface of the wealthy elite. Fitzgerald uses this setting to emphasize the stark divide between the rich and the poor, highlighting the social stratification that permeates society.

Through the interactions between characters, such as Tom overpowering George, Fitzgerald underscores the power dynamics at play between the rich and the poor. Tom's domineering attitude towards George reflects the inherent superiority complex of the wealthy towards those of lower social status.

Nick's description of George as a "blonde, spiritless man" further reinforces this hierarchy, highlighting the physical inferiority of the poor in comparison to the wealthy.

Gender stratification is also evident in the novel, as Fitzgerald explores the ways in which men exert dominance over women. Daisy's frustration with Tom's physical abuse and her accusation of him being a "brute" exemplifies the violence and control that men often exert over women. The metaphor of women as floating balloons, with Tom shutting the windows and causing them to slowly fall, symbolizes the restriction of women's freedoms by men.

The transformation of Myrtle after her affair with Tom further illustrates the power dynamics between men and women. Tom's influence over her vitality and demeanor highlights the ways in which men can shape and control women's identities. While this may initially seem like a positive change, it ultimately underscores the underlying dominance and manipulation that men exercise over women.

Overall, Fitzgerald's exploration of social, economic, and gender stratification in "The Great Gatsby" sheds light on the complexities of power dynamics within society. By contrasting the ostentatious displays of wealth in the East and West Egg with the desolation of the Valley of Ashes, he underscores the disparities that exist between the rich and the poor. Through the interactions between characters and the portrayal of gender dynamics, Fitzgerald delves into the ways in which power and dominance shape relationships and identities in a society marked by social inequality.