The Death of American Dream

In 1620, a ship named Mayflower, carrying the hopes of some people, quietly set sail under the cover of night. After sixty-five days of storm, hunger, sickness, loss, pain, confusion and despair, a vast expanse of land lay before nearly a hundred people. They call it the new Eden and believe that this unexplored 'pure land' will be the beginning of their new dream. With the arrival of the mayflower, the American dream began. In fact, the concept of 'American dream' first appeared in the 'American epic', its content is roughly summed up as: god gives everyone the opportunity is equal, as long as through unremitting efforts, they will get the status and wealth they deserve, the American dream like a flood swept across the United States.

However, after the outbreak of world war I, the American dream fell from the altar, the separation and collapse of traditional values and moral values, the loss of social morality, and the subversion of the basic values of capitalism, such as thrift, integrity, freedom, equality, and democracy, were enough to reflect the sick American dream at that time.

Get quality help now

Writer Lyla

Verified writer

Proficient in: American Dream

5 (876)

“ Have been using her for a while and please believe when I tell you, she never fail. Thanks Writer Lyla you are indeed awesome ”

+84 relevant experts are online

Hire writer

The pursuit of Gatsby’s dream is so legendary and tortuous that we have to admire him. However, his 'three dreams' showed the close connection between the society based on money and the collapse of the American dream

In the era of great economic development in the 20th century, the United States can be called the age of infatuation. In reality, there are tragicomedy after tragicomedy. Although Gatsby's life is short, we can clearly see the disillusionment of the American dream in him.

In his early life, his parents can see that Gatsby had great ambition when he was young

‘Jimmy was bound to get ahead. He always had some resolves like this or something. Do you notice what he’s got about improving his mind (Fitzgerald 176)? Although Gatsby was born in a humble family, he didn't want to live a poor life all his life. He wanted to fight and stand out, so he knew he wanted to work hard，‘Read one improving book or magazine per week Save $5.00 [crossed out] $3.00 per week Be better to parents(Fitzgerald 176). However, the strong influence in society gradually distorted his original values. In order to get money, he didn't hesitate to engage in illegal trade and violated the law, but he tasted the sweetness. As long as he could get wealth, he would be righteous He went on this road without hesitation. After he had huge assets, he began to hold various kinds of prosperous and luxurious parties and invited people from all walks of life. '. In his blue gardens men and girls came and went like moths among the whisperings and the champagne and the stars.' at this time, Gatsby was like a combination of contradictions. Integrity and dishonesty, morality and immorality appeared in Gatsby at the same time, However, he blindly pursues money and believes that money can buy all things. He built his dreams on the wrong foundation, and ultimately brought to him the physical and spiritual destruction,