Modernism in The Great Gatsby: A Literary Analysis

Introduction

The period of Modernism, spanning from the early 1900s to the early 1940s, marked a significant departure from 19th-century literary traditions. Modernist writers rejected conventional storytelling and ordinary verse, opting instead to present narratives reflective of the societal upheavals during and after World War I. This essay explores the characteristics of Modernism, focusing on The Great Gatsby as a quintessential modernist novel. Chris Baldick succinctly captures the essence of Modernist literature, stating that it is characterized by a rejection of 19th-century traditions and the consensus between author and reader.

Narrative Complexity and Unreliable Narrator

At the heart of Modernist literature is a rejection of tradition and a challenging attitude toward the past. In The Great Gatsby, a prime example of this is the narrative style employed by F. Scott Fitzgerald. The novel features a first-person narrator, Nick Carraway, whose unreliability adds complexity to the storytelling. Nick's unreliability is evident in his failure to recall certain events due to intoxication. He admits, "I have been drunk just twice in my life and the second time was that afternoon, so everything that happened has a dim hazy cast over it" (p.

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33). This fragmented and imperfect recollection contributes to the Modernist notion that the manner in which a story is told is as significant as the story itself.

Furthermore, Nick's incomplete narration is evident at the end of Chapter II, where he wakes up beside Mr. McKee, uncertain about the events that transpired. This selective memory and non-linear narrative disrupt the traditional chronological order, aligning with the Modernist rejection of conventional storytelling structures.

Nick's role as the narrator, determining what information to share and when, further reinforces the fragmented nature of the narrative.

Symbolism and the Decline of Traditional Values

The Great Gatsby embodies Modernist principles through symbolism, notably exemplified by the eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg. In the Modernist era, traditional values, including faith in God, underwent a significant decline. Dr. Eckleburg's billboard, portraying giant eyes, serves as a symbol representing God in the novel. The eyes, however, lack the moral and spiritual authority associated with traditional representations of God. Instead, they overlook a society in moral decay, emphasizing the novel's exploration of a changing America marked by a diminishing emphasis on religious values.

This symbol aligns with Modernist themes, echoing the idea that as society shifted, people sought alternative foundations for meaning and morality. Dr. Eckleburg's watchful eyes, devoid of divine significance, highlight the spiritual void in 1920s America, reinforcing the Modernist belief that the conventional sources of guidance were waning.

The Loss of the American Dream as a Modernist Theme

A central theme in The Great Gatsby contributing to its classification as a Modernist novel is the exploration of the loss of the American Dream. The characters' preoccupations with material possessions, extramarital affairs, extravagant parties, and excessive alcohol consumption underscore the disillusionment and moral emptiness of the era. The protagonist, Jay Gatsby, personifies the pursuit of the American Dream, dedicating his life to acquiring wealth and social status to win the love of Daisy Buchanan.

However, Gatsby's tragic failure illustrates the futility of the American Dream, as his relentless pursuit leads to ruin. Each character in the novel, including Nick, Jordan, Tom, and Daisy, represents different facets of Modernism. Nick embodies isolation, Jordan reflects cynicism and a competitive nature, Gatsby personifies optimism tinged with weakness, Tom epitomizes arrogance and prejudice, and Daisy embodies skepticism and disillusionment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, The Great Gatsby serves as a prime example of Modernist literature, incorporating narrative complexity, symbolic representations, and thematic explorations reflective of the era's societal shifts. F. Scott Fitzgerald's utilization of an unreliable narrator, symbolic imagery, and a profound exploration of the disillusionment surrounding the American Dream align the novel with key Modernist principles. The fragmented narrative, the decline of traditional values symbolized by Dr. Eckleburg's eyes, and the thematic emphasis on the loss of the American Dream collectively contribute to The Great Gatsby's enduring status as a quintessential Modernist work.