Tom Buchanan’s Great Gatsby: Wealth, Corruption, and the American Dream
When discussing the American Dream, few characters embody the complexities of wealth and corruption quite like Tom Buchanan in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby.” This article delves into the multifaceted portrayal of Tom Buchanan, examining his wealth, corruption, and the impact he has on the novel’s themes.
Tom Buchanan’s Wealth
Tom Buchanan, the son of a wealthy copper industrialist, is a man of immense wealth. His fortune is evident in his opulent lifestyle, which includes a grand mansion, a luxurious yacht, and a collection of exquisite art. However, this wealth is not merely a reflection of his material possessions; it is a symbol of the power and influence that money can buy.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Manor House | $50,000 |
| Yacht | $25,000 |
| Art Collection | $10,000 |
Tom’s wealth allows him to live a life of luxury and excess, but it also isolates him from the rest of society. He is surrounded by a circle of wealthy friends who share his taste for the finer things, but he is unable to connect with them on a deeper level. This isolation is a recurring theme in the novel, as Tom’s wealth ultimately leads to his downfall.
Tom Buchanan’s Corruption
While Tom Buchanan’s wealth is a central aspect of his character, it is his corruption that truly defines him. Tom’s corruption is evident in his treatment of others, particularly his wife, Daisy, and his affair with Myrtle Wilson. His actions are driven by a sense of entitlement and a disregard for the well-being of others.
Tom’s affair with Myrtle Wilson is a prime example of his corruption. He sees Myrtle as a mere object to satisfy his desires, and he treats her with disdain and cruelty. This affair ultimately leads to Myrtle’s tragic death, highlighting the consequences of Tom’s corrupt nature.
The American Dream and Tom Buchanan
Tom Buchanan’s character is a microcosm of the American Dream. He embodies the idea that wealth and power can lead to happiness and fulfillment, but his story serves as a cautionary tale. The American Dream, as portrayed in “The Great Gatsby,” is a fragile and elusive concept, one that can be easily corrupted by greed and ambition.
Fitzgerald uses Tom Buchanan to explore the darker side of the American Dream, questioning whether wealth and power are truly worth the cost. Tom’s character challenges readers to consider the moral implications of pursuing the American Dream and the potential consequences of achieving it.
Conclusion
Tom Buchanan’s character in “The Great Gatsby” is a complex and intriguing figure. His wealth, corruption, and the impact he has on the novel’s themes make him a compelling study. By examining Tom Buchanan, readers are able to gain a deeper understanding of the American Dream and its potential pitfalls.
