What Some Symbols of Tom Buchanan Represent
Tom Buchanan, a character in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel “The Great Gatsby,” is a complex figure whose actions and demeanor are laden with symbolism. This article delves into some of the key symbols associated with Buchanan, exploring their significance in the novel and their impact on the reader’s understanding of the character and the era.
The Symbolism of Wealth
Tom Buchanan is often seen as a symbol of the excesses of the Roaring Twenties. His immense wealth is evident in his opulent lifestyle, which includes a grand mansion, a luxurious yacht, and a collection of expensive cars. This display of wealth is not just a reflection of his personal success but also a commentary on the era’s obsession with materialism.
| Symbol | Representation |
|---|---|
| Grand Mansion | Extravagant lifestyle |
| Luxurious Yacht | Power and status |
| Expensive Cars | Materialism |
The Symbolism of Racism
Buchanan’s racism is another significant symbol in the novel. His prejudice is not only directed towards African Americans but also towards other ethnic groups. This racism is a reflection of the societal attitudes of the time and serves as a stark contrast to the novel’s themes of love, dreams, and the American Dream.
One of the most poignant examples of Buchanan’s racism is his treatment of Myrtle Wilson, a woman of Irish descent. Despite being married to another man, Buchanan has an affair with Myrtle, and when she becomes pregnant, he abandons her. This act of abandonment is a clear demonstration of his lack of moral values and his disregard for the well-being of others.
The Symbolism of Class and Social Status
Tom Buchanan’s background as a son of a wealthy copper industrialist places him firmly in the upper class. His social status is a symbol of the class divisions of the era, and his actions often reflect his belief in the superiority of his own class.
One example of this is Buchanan’s reaction to the news of Myrtle’s death. Instead of showing concern for her well-being, he is more concerned with the potential damage to his own reputation. This indifference to the suffering of others is a clear indication of his class-centric worldview.
The Symbolism of Violence
Tom Buchanan’s violent nature is another symbol in the novel. His physical aggression is a reflection of his inability to control his emotions and his tendency to resort to violence when faced with conflict. This violence is not only a personal flaw but also a commentary on the societal attitudes of the time, which often condoned or ignored acts of violence.
One of the most memorable examples of Buchanan’s violence is his attack on Myrtle’s husband, George Wilson. After discovering that Myrtle is having an affair with Buchanan, George confronts him in a fit of rage. Buchanan, in a fit of his own anger, physically assaults George, leaving him severely injured. This act of violence is a clear demonstration of Buchanan’s inability to handle conflict in a peaceful manner.
The Symbolism of Betrayal
Tom Buchanan’s betrayal of Myrtle Wilson is a symbol of the broken promises and unfulfilled dreams of the era. Buchanan’s affair with Myrtle is a clear violation of the social norms of the time, and his subsequent abandonment of her is a betrayal of her trust and her dreams of a better life.
Myrtle’s tragic end, which is a direct result of Buchanan’s actions, serves as a reminder of the consequences of betrayal and the fragility of the American Dream. It also highlights the theme of the destructive power of obsession, as Buchanan’s infatuation with Myrtle leads to a series of events that ultimately result in her death.
In conclusion, Tom Buchanan is a character rich in symbolism. His wealth, racism, class consciousness, violence, and betrayal all serve to deepen the reader’s understanding of the novel’s themes and the societal attitudes of the era. Buchanan’s character is a complex and multifaceted one, and his symbolism continues to resonate with readers today.
