In the book, how does Gatsby's flaws and idealism represent the best and the worst about the American Dream?
1. Make sure you have read the book thoroughly.
2. Make 3 lists: Gatsby's flaws; Gatsby's ideals; elements in the idea "American dream."
3. Make comparisons and contrasts from your lists.
What do you mean by ideals?
http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/ideals?s=t
I'll do that, thank you
You're welcome.
It's much easier to plan and write an essay if you make lists first!
To analyze how Gatsby's flaws and idealism represent the best and the worst about the American Dream, we need to understand Gatsby's character and the concept of the American Dream in F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel, "The Great Gatsby." Let's break it down step by step:
1. Understanding Gatsby's flaws and idealism:
- Gatsby's flaws: Gatsby is a self-made man who becomes wealthy through illegal activities, such as bootlegging and organized crime. He is obsessed with material possessions and superficial appearances. He is also a romantic idealist, naively believing that his wealth and charm can win back his lost love, Daisy Buchanan.
- Gatsby's idealism: Gatsby's idealism is manifested in his relentless pursuit of the American Dream. He represents the belief that anyone, regardless of their social standing or past, can achieve success, wealth, and happiness in America.
2. Defining the American Dream:
- The American Dream is a concept deeply ingrained in American culture. It is the belief that through hard work, determination, and a little luck, anyone can achieve prosperity, success, and upward social mobility.
- Traditionally, the American Dream is associated with the pursuit of wealth, home ownership, and a better life for oneself and future generations.
3. Analyzing the best and the worst about the American Dream through Gatsby:
- The best about the American Dream:
- Gatsby's ability to transform himself from a poor farmer's son into a wealthy, influential figure reflects the potential for social mobility and success inherent in the American Dream.
- Gatsby's determination and relentless pursuit of his dreams embody the optimistic spirit that encourages individuals to overcome obstacles and achieve greatness.
- The worst about the American Dream:
- Gatsby's flaws and obsession with material wealth demonstrate the dark side of the American Dream, where success and happiness are often equated with material possessions.
- Gatsby's single-minded pursuit of his idealized vision of Daisy blinds him to the reality of who she is and what their relationship could truly be. This highlights the disillusionment and unattainable expectations that can come with the American Dream.
In summary, Gatsby's flaws and idealism represent both the best and the worst aspects of the American Dream. His pursuit of wealth and happiness showcases the potential for success through determination, while his obsession with materialism and naivety illustrates the disillusionment and unattainable ideals associated with the American Dream.