Quote Showing Tom Buchanan as a Static Character
When analyzing the character of Tom Buchanan in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby,” one cannot help but notice the static nature of his character. Despite his presence in the novel, Buchanan remains largely unchanged throughout the story, providing a stark contrast to the dynamic characters that populate the rest of the narrative.
Physical Appearance and Social Status
Tom Buchanan’s static character is immediately apparent through his physical appearance and social status. He is described as a tall, blond man with a “hard mouth” and “a supercilious manner” (Fitzgerald 19). His wealth and social standing are also evident, as he is portrayed as a member of the old money elite. However, these attributes do not change over the course of the novel, and Buchanan remains a static figure in this regard.
Beliefs and Values
One of the most significant aspects of Tom Buchanan’s static character is his steadfast adherence to his beliefs and values. Throughout the novel, Buchanan is portrayed as a man who is deeply committed to the ideals of the old money class. He is a firm believer in the superiority of his social class and is quick to dismiss those who do not fit the mold. This is evident in his interactions with Gatsby, who represents the new money class, and with Myrtle Wilson, whose lower-class background is a source of embarrassment to Buchanan.
| Character | Belief | Change Over Time |
|---|---|---|
| Tom Buchanan | Superiority of old money class | No change |
| Jay Gatsby | Love for Daisy and desire for social status | Change (from obsession to acceptance) |
| Myrtle Wilson | Desire for a better life | Change (from ambition to despair) |
Despite the various challenges and conflicts he faces, Buchanan’s beliefs and values remain steadfast. He is not swayed by the events that unfold around him, and his character remains static in this regard.
Relationships and Interactions
Tom Buchanan’s static character is further highlighted through his relationships and interactions with other characters. His marriage to Daisy, for example, is a relationship that is built on a foundation of wealth and social status rather than love. This is evident in their lack of emotional connection and the infidelity that plagues their marriage. Buchanan’s affair with Myrtle Wilson is another example of his static nature, as he is unable to break free from his old money values and pursue a meaningful relationship with a woman from a lower social class.
His interactions with Gatsby are also revealing. Buchanan is initially dismissive of Gatsby, viewing him as a nouveau riche interloper. However, his attitude does not change significantly throughout the novel. He remains indifferent to Gatsby’s love for Daisy and his efforts to win her back. This lack of emotional investment in the characters around him reinforces the static nature of his character.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the quote “Quote Showing Tom Buchanan is a static character” accurately captures the essence of Tom Buchanan’s character in “The Great Gatsby.” His physical appearance, social status, beliefs, and relationships all remain largely unchanged throughout the novel, making him a static figure in a narrative filled with dynamic characters. This static nature serves to highlight the themes of wealth, class, and the American Dream, as well as the limitations of the old money class in the face of changing times.
