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"The friendship between Nick Carraway and Jay Gatsby is fascinating because it is both intimate and complex." Discuss this view of the friendship between Carraway and Gatsby - Leaving Cert English - Question B - 2015
Question B
"The friendship between Nick Carraway and Jay Gatsby is fascinating because it is both intimate and complex." Discuss this view of the friendship between Carraway ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:"The friendship between Nick Carraway and Jay Gatsby is fascinating because it is both intimate and complex." Discuss this view of the friendship between Carraway and Gatsby - Leaving Cert English - Question B - 2015
Step 1
Discuss this view of the friendship between Carraway and Gatsby.
Answer
In F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel The Great Gatsby, the friendship between Nick Carraway and Jay Gatsby is indeed both intimate and complex. Their relationship is built on a foundation of shared dreams and aspirations, but it is also fraught with misunderstandings and social barriers.
Intimacy of the Friendship
Nick's initial fascination with Gatsby comes from the mysterious aura surrounding him and the extravagant lifestyle he leads. This draws Nick closer to Gatsby, allowing him to witness Gatsby's vulnerability, especially regarding his love for Daisy Buchanan. Nick serves as a confidant for Gatsby, illustrating a sense of intimacy as Gatsby shares his dreams and the motivations behind his actions.
Complexity in Their Relationship
However, the complexity arises from their differing backgrounds and perspectives on life. While Nick is more grounded and realistic, Gatsby is an idealist, caught in the throes of his unrelenting pursuit of the American Dream. This dichotomy creates tension in their friendship, leading to moments where Nick struggles to reconcile Gatsby's dreams with the harsh realities of life. Nick’s eventual disillusionment with Gatsby’s world further complicates their relationship, as he realizes the depths of Gatsby's obsessive nature and the ultimate futility of his dreams.
Thus, the friendship is fascinating not only for its intimate moments but also for the complex interplay of dreams, social hierarchies, and eventual tragedy.
Step 2
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?
Answer
I agree with the view that it is possible to be both attracted to the idealism and repelled by the corruption evident in The Great Gatsby.
Attraction to Idealism
The novel presents a strong critique of the American Dream through Gatsby's character, illustrating the allure of his aspirations. His relentless pursuit of Daisy and the wealth he accumulates symbolize the idealism that many characters in the novel pursue. Readers are drawn to Gatsby's charm and unwavering hope, making it easy to empathize with his dreams.
Repulsion from Corruption
However, this idealism is constantly juxtaposed with the moral decay of the society around Gatsby. Characters such as Tom Buchanan embody the corruption and lack of integrity common among the wealthy. The lavish parties at Gatsby’s mansion are rife with uninvited guests engaging in debauchery, illustrating the emptiness of his social circle. This portrayal of corruption can be off-putting, prompting readers to question the value of the dreams that fuel Gatsby’s actions.
Conclusion
Thus, one can be drawn to the beauty of Gatsby's dreams while simultaneously feeling repulsed by the world’s moral decay. This duality is central to the reader’s experience of the novel and mirrors the conflicting emotions the characters endure.