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Symbolism serves as a powerful tool in literature, aiding readers in comprehending the intricate layers of a narrative. In F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby," symbols play a vital role in shaping the character development of Jay Gatsby and George Wilson. The locations they inhabit, the watchful eyes of Doctor T.J.
Eckleburg, and the automobiles within the story serve as significant symbols, conveying Fitzgerald's nuanced ideas to the audience. This essay explores the extensive use of symbols in Fitzgerald's novel to illuminate and deepen the characters of George Wilson and Jay Gatsby.
An integral symbol in "The Great Gatsby" is the choice of residence for both Jay Gatsby and George Wilson, reflecting their dreams and aspirations.
East Egg and West Egg represent distinct social classes, with East Egg denoting those who have achieved the dream of wealth and power, while West Egg is populated by individuals still striving for this dream.
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“ She followed all my directions. It was really easy to contact her and respond very fast as well. ”
Gatsby, despite his wealth, resides in West Egg, indicating his ongoing pursuit of a specific dream: "Gatsby bought that house so that Daisy would be just across the bay" (Fitzgerald 76).
In contrast, George Wilson inhabits the desolate "valley of ashes" between New York and West Egg, a symbolic representation of shattered dreams. The valley becomes a poignant backdrop for Wilson's unfulfilled aspirations, emphasizing his inability to attain the American Dream. These symbolic residences contribute significantly to the development of George Wilson and Jay Gatsby as characters in the novel.
The looming eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg, part of an abandoned advertisement, emerge as a potent symbol throughout the narrative. Positioned over the "valley of ashes," these eyes assume a god-like presence, watching over the desolate landscape. George Wilson, trapped in this barren terrain for over "eleven years" (Fitzgerald 37), sees these eyes as a symbol of divine scrutiny. When Myrtle, George's wife, is tragically killed, the eyes of Dr. Eckleburg witness the event, symbolizing the irrevocable shattering of Gatsby's dream and foreshadowing his eventual demise. The eyes become a recurring symbol, influencing the transformation of George Wilson from a timid individual to a resolute and stubborn man.
Cars, a recurring symbol in Fitzgerald's novel, are instrumental in portraying the characters of Jay Gatsby and George Wilson. Gatsby's Rolls Royce, described as "a rich cream color, bright with nickel," stands as a symbol of material wealth and his relentless pursuit of the American Dream (Fitzgerald 63). The opulence of the car mirrors Gatsby's desire for Daisy Buchanan and represents the materialistic aspects of his dream.
On the other hand, George Wilson's lifeless existence is mirrored in his "dust-covered wreck of a Ford," symbolizing the abandonment of dreams and a sense of hopelessness (Fitzgerald 27). The stark contrast between Gatsby's luxurious car and Wilson's dilapidated vehicle underscores the disparity in their life paths and aspirations. These symbolic automobiles contribute significantly to the character development of Gatsby and Wilson, shedding light on their respective journeys.
F. Scott Fitzgerald's masterful use of symbols in "The Great Gatsby" transcends mere literary devices; they become intricate elements that shape the characters of Jay Gatsby and George Wilson. The symbolic residences, the watchful eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg, and the cars serve as conduits for deeper insights into the characters' dreams, aspirations, and eventual fates. Fitzgerald's symbolism not only enriches the narrative but also invites readers to delve into the profound layers of his characters' lives, creating a timeless exploration of the American Dream and its elusive nature.
Symbolism in Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby. (2016, Jul 22). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/symbolism-in-the-great-gatsby-essay
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