Understanding Tom Buchanan’s Complexity
Tom Buchanan, a character from F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby,” is often debated as to whether he is a round character. A round character is one that is fully realized, with depth, flaws, and complexities. To determine if Tom Buchanan qualifies as such, we must delve into his background, actions, and interactions with others.
Background and Social Status
Tom Buchanan is a wealthy man, a self-made millionaire, and a member of New York’s high society. His background is significant in understanding his character. He grew up in the Midwest, which is evident in his mannerisms and speech. However, his wealth and social status have allowed him to move to the East and immerse himself in the elite circles of New York.
| Background Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Midwestern Roots | Tom’s upbringing in the Midwest shapes his values and personality. |
| Self-Made Millionaire | Tom’s wealth is a result of his own efforts, which adds to his self-assurance. |
| New York High Society | Tom’s membership in New York’s elite circles influences his behavior and attitudes. |
Character Flaws and Complexities
Tom Buchanan is not without his flaws. He is characterized as a man of great wealth and power, yet he is also a man of great arrogance and prejudice. His racism is evident in his treatment of others, particularly his affair with Myrtle Wilson, a woman from a lower social class. This affair highlights his lack of empathy and his disregard for others’ feelings.
Additionally, Tom’s actions in the novel are not always consistent. He is initially portrayed as a charming and charismatic man, but as the story progresses, his true nature is revealed. His affair with Myrtle and his violent response to her husband, George Wilson, are examples of his dark side.
Interactions with Other Characters
Tom’s relationships with other characters in the novel are complex. He is married to Daisy Buchanan, a woman from a wealthy family, and their marriage is strained. Daisy’s affair with Jay Gatsby, a man from a lower social class, adds to the tension in their relationship. Tom’s jealousy and possessiveness are evident in his treatment of Daisy and Gatsby.
Tom’s interactions with Gatsby are particularly revealing. He is initially dismissive of Gatsby, viewing him as a nouveau riche upstart. However, as the story progresses, Tom becomes more intrigued by Gatsby’s mysterious past and his obsession with Daisy. This intrigue eventually leads to Tom’s involvement in Gatsby’s death.
Conclusion: Is Tom Buchanan a Round Character?
Based on the analysis of Tom Buchanan’s background, character flaws, and interactions with other characters, it is clear that he is a round character. He is fully realized, with depth, flaws, and complexities. His background as a self-made millionaire from the Midwest, his membership in New York’s high society, and his flawed character traits all contribute to his roundness. His actions and interactions with others, particularly his affair with Myrtle and his involvement in Gatsby’s death, further demonstrate his multifaceted nature.
In conclusion, Tom Buchanan is a round character in “The Great Gatsby.” His complexities and flaws make him a memorable and intriguing character, one that continues to be debated and analyzed by readers and scholars alike.
