The Great Gatsby-Why doesn't Daisy stop the car for Myrtle? I don't know why she didn't stop. Thanks
In F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel, "The Great Gatsby," there is a scene where Daisy Buchanan drives a car that hits and kills Myrtle Wilson, Tom Buchanan's mistress, on their way back from New York City. The question of why Daisy does not stop the car for Myrtle can be open to interpretation, as it pertains to the complex nature of Daisy's character and her motivations in the story.
To understand why Daisy doesn't stop, we first need to consider Daisy's personality. Throughout the novel, Daisy is portrayed as a privileged, insecure, and self-absorbed character. She often acts recklessly and irresponsibly, driven by her desires and seeking to preserve her own comfort and wealth. This is evident in her decision to marry Tom Buchanan for his wealth, despite her love for Jay Gatsby.
When the accident occurs, Daisy is behind the wheel and is likely overcome with fear and panic. She may have been unwilling or unable to face the consequences of the accident, both legally and emotionally. Daisy's negligent behavior is further emphasized by the fact that she continues driving without stopping, even though she clearly knows that she hit someone.
Another factor to consider is Daisy's relationship with Tom Buchanan. Throughout the novel, Daisy is torn between her love for Jay Gatsby and her loyalty to her husband, Tom. Tom and Daisy's marriage is strained, but they still share a certain bond rooted in their social status and privilege. Daisy's hesitation to stop the car for Myrtle could be influenced by her desire to protect Tom from the repercussions of his affair and any potential scandal that could arise from the accident.
It is also worth noting that the hit-and-run incident occurs during a heated moment between Gatsby, Tom, and Daisy. The tension and emotions of the situation could have clouded Daisy's judgment, leading her to make a split-second decision that prioritized her own self-preservation over the safety and well-being of others.
Overall, Daisy's decision not to stop the car for Myrtle reflects her character flaws, her fear of consequences, and her willingness to prioritize her own interests over others. The incident serves as a significant turning point in the novel, highlighting the theme of moral decay and the destructive nature of the characters' desires.
In "The Great Gatsby," there are a few reasons why Daisy doesn't stop the car for Myrtle. Here are some possible explanations:
1. Panic and fear: When Myrtle runs out onto the road, Daisy may have been taken by surprise and panicked, leading her to continue driving without thinking. The suddenness of the situation might have caused her to react instinctively, choosing to keep going rather than risk further danger.
2. Self-preservation: Daisy is known for being self-centered and concerned about her own well-being. When Myrtle is hit, Daisy might prioritize her own safety and the safety of her companion, Gatsby, rather than stopping to help Myrtle. This selfishness can be seen throughout the novel in Daisy's actions and choices.
3. Guilt and shame: Daisy was aware that her husband, Tom, was having an affair with Myrtle. Seeing Myrtle running towards the car might have reminded Daisy of this affair and the pain it caused her. Her guilt and shame over her own actions and involvement in the affair could have contributed to her decision to keep driving.
4. Lack of responsibility: Daisy's character is often portrayed as lacking a strong sense of responsibility. This is evident in her relationships and actions throughout the story. Thus, her decision not to stop for Myrtle could reflect this lack of accountability, as she chooses to avoid taking any responsibility for the accident.
It's important to note that the interpretation of Daisy's actions can vary, and different readers may have different opinions on the exact reasons why she didn't stop the car for Myrtle. Fitzgerald's writing deliberately leaves room for interpretation, allowing readers to form their own conclusions about the characters' motives and actions.
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http://www.sparknotes.com/lit/gatsby/