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"Fitzgerald's portrayal of love and marriage in his novel, The Great Gatsby, is entirely negative." To what extent do you agree or disagree with the above statement? Support your response with reference to the text - Leaving Cert English - Question B - 2018
Question B
"Fitzgerald's portrayal of love and marriage in his novel, The Great Gatsby, is entirely negative." To what extent do you agree or disagree with the above statement... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:"Fitzgerald's portrayal of love and marriage in his novel, The Great Gatsby, is entirely negative." To what extent do you agree or disagree with the above statement? Support your response with reference to the text - Leaving Cert English - Question B - 2018
Step 1
To what extent do you agree or disagree with the above statement?
Answer
Fitzgerald's portrayal of love and marriage in The Great Gatsby presents a complex picture that may not be entirely negative. While there are elements of disillusionment and betrayal, there are also moments of idealism and hope throughout the text.
Support for Negative Portrayal
Characters like Tom Buchanan exemplify the darker side of love and marriage, as Tom's infidelity and abusive nature highlight the destructiveness of such relationships. Additionally, Daisy's actions and her choices depict the emptiness that can accompany wealth and privilege, suggesting that love is often compromised by social expectations and materialism.
Counterarguments for Positive Portrayal
However, Gatsby’s love for Daisy is portrayed as fervent and sincere, capturing the idealistic hope of love, despite its tragic end. Gatsby's unyielding desire to reclaim the past with Daisy illustrates a romantic perspective on love, emphasizing its potential for beauty and aspiration. Furthermore, symbols like the green light at the end of Daisy's dock represent unattainable dreams, adding depth to the portrayal of love as a driving, albeit painful, force.
In conclusion, while one can argue that Fitzgerald critiques the institution of marriage through his characters' actions, one must also acknowledge the poignant moments that suggest the enduring power of love, even in its flawed nature.
Step 2
Discuss the factors in the novel, The Great Gatsby, that you think are most influential in the development of Jay Gatsby's character.
Answer
Jay Gatsby’s character is shaped by various personal, social, and cultural factors that contribute to his complex identity.
Personal Factors
Gatsby's idealism and relentless ambition are rooted in his desperate desire to achieve a dream that transcends his humble beginnings. His childhood as James Gatz instilled a sense of hope and a determination to rise above social norms, influencing his path toward becoming a self-made man.
Social Factors
The social dynamics of the Jazz Age heavily influence Gatsby, particularly the class divides and the pursuit of wealth. Gatsby's fixation on the Eastern elite, particularly symbolized by his love for Daisy, reflects the societal pressures of the time. The often superficial nature of relationships among the wealthy exposes Gatsby to both the allure and the hollowness of wealth.
Cultural Factors
The Roaring Twenties, marked by widespread materialism and a redefinition of social norms, also play a crucial role in Gatsby's development. His lavish parties and ostentatious lifestyle are attempts to gain acceptance within this new social milieu, highlighting the cultural shift towards valuing wealth over morals.
Conclusion
Ultimately, Gatsby's character is a product of his aspirations and the societal constructs of his time. His tragic pursuit for love and acceptance underlines the conflicts between personal dreams and societal realities, making him one of literature's most enduring figures.