Who is the Antagonist in The Great Gatsby: Tom Buchanan or Society?

📚 Who is the Antagonist in 'The Great Gatsby'?

Determining the antagonist in F. Scott Fitzgerald's 'The Great Gatsby' is a complex question. While Tom Buchanan serves as a clear individual antagonist, society itself can also be viewed as a powerful, pervasive force working against Gatsby's dreams. Both interpretations hold merit and offer valuable insights into the novel's themes.

🎭 Tom Buchanan: The Individual Antagonist

Tom Buchanan embodies many classic antagonistic traits. He is arrogant, wealthy, and uses his power to manipulate and control those around him.

• 😠 Aggression and Bullying: Tom physically and emotionally abuses Daisy and displays aggressive behavior towards Gatsby.
• 💔 Infidelity and Hypocrisy: His open affair and hypocritical condemnation of Daisy's past with Gatsby highlight his moral failings.
• 💰 Privilege and Entitlement: Tom's wealth shields him from consequences and fuels his sense of superiority.

🌍 Society: The Systemic Antagonist

Beyond Tom, the societal structure of the Roaring Twenties plays a crucial role in thwarting Gatsby's aspirations. The rigid class system and the pursuit of the American Dream create an environment where Gatsby is ultimately doomed.

• 阶级 Class Division: Gatsby's 'new money' status prevents him from ever truly being accepted into the established elite, represented by Tom and Daisy.
• 💭 The Illusion of the American Dream: The novel critiques the idea that anyone can achieve success through hard work, as Gatsby's efforts are ultimately futile.
• 🙊 Moral Decay: The superficiality and moral corruption of the wealthy contribute to Gatsby's downfall.
• 🏛️ Social Expectations: The pressure to conform to societal norms and expectations limits individual freedom and happiness.

⚖️ Comparing Tom and Society

While Tom is a direct obstacle to Gatsby's happiness, society provides the framework that allows Tom's behavior to persist and ultimately destroys Gatsby's dreams.

💡 Conclusion

Ultimately, both Tom Buchanan and society function as antagonists in 'The Great Gatsby.' Tom embodies the individual cruelty and moral bankruptcy that contribute to Gatsby's downfall, while society represents the larger systemic forces that perpetuate inequality and crush the American Dream. Understanding both aspects provides a richer, more nuanced interpretation of the novel's themes.