In the 1920s, America was experiencing a period of rapid economic growth and social change. The gap between old money, inherited wealth passed down from generation to generation, and new money, wealth acquired through individual effort, was becoming more and more pronounced. In “The Great Gatsby,” Jay Gatsby represents the epitome of new money. He is a self-made man who amassed his fortune through smuggling and other illicit activities. On the other hand, characters like Tom Buchanan and Daisy Buchanan come from wealthy backgrounds, with their wealth and social status inherited from their families. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an original essay The relationship between Gatsby and old money in the novel is characterized by tension and conflict. Gatsby is determined to win over Daisy, who is married to Tom, despite the societal barriers that separate them. His extravagant parties and lavish displays of wealth are considered gauche and vulgar by the old financial elite, who view him as an intruder trying to force his way into their social circle. Gatsby's pursuit of Daisy is ultimately doomed due to his inability to bridge the gap between the old money and the new money. Throughout the novel, Gatsby's relationship with old money undergoes a series of developments. Gatsby's obsession with Daisy blinds him to the reality of his marriage to Tom and the social barriers that separate them. His belief in the power of wealth and status to overcome all obstacles leads to his downfall. Ultimately, Gatsby is betrayed by Daisy and Tom, who represent the entrenched power of old money and the limits of social mobility in the Jazz Age. An example of the tension between Gatsby and old money in the novel is the character of Tom Buchanan. . Tom represents the old financial elite who view Gatsby with disdain and suspicion. In a conversation with Nick Carraway, Tom calls Gatsby a "bootlegger" and questions the legitimacy of his wealth. This exchange highlights the deep-seated animosity and class prejudices that exist between Gatsby and old-money characters like Tom. Additionally, the character of Daisy Buchanan is a symbol of the unattainable appeal of old money for Gatsby. Daisy's voice is described as "full of money", representing the seductive power of wealth and privilege that Gatsby longs to possess. Despite his efforts to win over Daisy with his wealth and extravagant lifestyle, Gatsby ultimately fails to break down the old money barriers that separate them. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get Custom Essay In conclusion, the relationship between Gatsby and old money in "The Great Gatsby" is a reflection of the social and economic tensions of the 1920s. The novel explores the conflict between old money and new money, as well as the limits of wealth and status in determining one's place in society. Gatsby's tragic end serves as a warning about the power and limits of the American dream. The dynamic between Gatsby and old money in the novel continues to resonate with readers today, making "The Great Gatsby" a timeless exploration of class, wealth and social aspirations. In his essay "The Great Gatsby and the American Dream," literary critic James L. W. West III argues that Gatsby's relationship with old money reflects the larger theme of social mobility and the limits of the American dream. West suggests that the..