Table of contentsIntroductionBody paragraphConclusionIntroductionF. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby" is often considered one of the most influential American novels of the 20th century. The story takes place in the Roaring Twenties, a period characterized by unprecedented economic prosperity and cultural evolution. At the center of the novel is the theme of ambition, embodied by its enigmatic protagonist, Jay Gatsby. Gatsby's relentless pursuit of wealth and status, motivated by his love for Daisy Buchanan, provides a powerful commentary on the American dream. This essay will explore how Fitzgerald depicts ambition in "The Great Gatsby" and the consequences it brings on the characters' lives, ultimately questioning the feasibility and morality of such aspirations. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”?Get the original essayBody ParagraphJay Gatsby's ambition is multifaceted, encompassing his desires for economic success, social acceptance, and romantic fulfillment. From the start, Gatsby's past is shrouded in mystery, hinting at his self-made identity. Born James Gatz, Gatsby reinvented himself, going from being a poor farmer's son to becoming a wealthy and influential figure. His journey is emblematic of the American dream: the belief that everyone, regardless of their background, can achieve greatness through hard work and determination. Gatsby's lavish parties and opulent lifestyle are not mere displays of wealth; they are strategic efforts to gain recognition and acceptance among East Egg's elite, played by Daisy Buchanan. Gatsby's romantic ambition is perhaps the most poignant aspect of his character. His love for Daisy is not only deeply personal, but also symbolic of his larger aspirations. Daisy represents the ultimate prize, the embodiment of beauty, status, and the life that Gatsby aspires to. However, Daisy is also a flawed and superficial character, embodying the emptiness and moral decadence of the society Gatsby seeks to join. Despite his immense wealth, Gatsby remains an outsider, never fully accepted by the old money aristocracy. His ambition blinds him to the reality that Daisy, and what she represents, may be unattainable and ultimately unworthy of his devotion. Fitzgerald uses other characters to juxtapose and critique Gatsby's ambition. Tom Buchanan, Daisy's husband, represents the well-established class system that Gatsby is trying to infiltrate. Tom's contempt for Gatsby highlights the rigid social barriers that persist despite Gatsby's financial success. Nick Carraway, the novel's narrator, offers a more nuanced perspective. Initially captivated by Gatsby's idealism and determination, Nick gradually becomes disillusioned with the moral compromises and deceptions that underlie Gatsby's rise. Through Nick's eyes, Fitzgerald exposes the darker side of ambition: the ethical ambiguities, the sacrifices, and the ultimate futility. The consequences of ambition in “The Great Gatsby” are both profound and tragic. Gatsby's relentless pursuit of achieving his dreams leads to his isolation and, ultimately, his demise. Despite his wealth and connections, Gatsby dies alone, his great ambitions unfulfilled. Fitzgerald's portrayal of Gatsby's downfall serves as a critique of the American dream itself. The novel suggests that the dream, while seductive, is inherently imperfect. It promotes a materialistic and superficial definition of success, often at the expense of personal integrity and true relationships.