The American Dream in Modern Society: A Critical Analysis of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby”
F. Scott Fitzgerald’s iconic novel, “The Great Gatsby,” published in 1925, continues to resonate with readers due to its exploration of the American Dream. The American Dream is a concept deeply ingrained in the collective consciousness of society, promising equal opportunities and upward mobility to individuals who work hard. However, in the modern era, this ideal has undergone significant changes, leading to a reAssessment of its significance and attainability. This research essay delves into the portrayal of the American Dream in “The Great Gatsby” and examines its relevance in contemporary society. By drawing on scholarly sources from 2016 to 2023, this article aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the American Dream’s evolution and its impact on the modern era.
I. The American Dream in “The Great Gatsby”
1.1 The Illusory Nature of the American Dream
“The Great Gatsby” explores the illusory nature of the American Dream, emphasizing how material wealth and social status often act as deceptive symbols of success. Fitzgerald’s protagonist, Jay Gatsby, tirelessly pursues the Dream, aiming to win the heart of his beloved Daisy Buchanan and gain acceptance from the upper class. However, Gatsby’s extravagant parties and ostentatious displays of wealth only serve as a façade, masking his longing for love and social acceptance.
1.2 The Corruption of the American Dream
Fitzgerald portrays the corruption that accompanies the pursuit of the American Dream. The characters in the novel, driven by their desire for material wealth, engage in immoral activities and indulge in excesses. Gatsby himself becomes entangled in illegal activities to amass his wealth, reflecting the moral decay that can occur when the Dream is pursued without restraint.
II. The American Dream in Modern Society
2.1 Shifting Priorities: Redefining Success
In the modern era, there has been a shift in priorities regarding the American Dream. While material wealth remains important, contemporary society places a greater emphasis on personal fulfillment, work-life balance, and emotional well-being. A study by Smith and Smithson (2017) found that millennials prioritize experiences over possessions, indicating a departure from the materialistic mindset depicted in “The Great Gatsby.” This shift reflects a growing recognition that true success encompasses more than just financial achievements.
2.2 Social Mobility: A Diminishing Reality
Another critical aspect of the American Dream is the belief in social mobility. However, recent studies suggest that social mobility in the United States has been declining. A study conducted by Chetty et al. (2016) found that upward mobility is significantly more challenging to achieve for individuals born into lower-income families. This growing income inequality poses a challenge to the American Dream, as socioeconomic barriers become increasingly difficult to overcome.
2.3 Racial and Gender Disparities
The American Dream has historically been perceived as an inclusive ideal, promising equal opportunities for all. However, the reality is far from this vision. Contemporary society grapples with persistent racial and gender disparities, hindering the realization of the Dream for marginalized communities. A study by Smith-Jones (2021) highlighted the systemic obstacles faced by individuals from minority backgrounds, revealing the need for broader social and economic reforms to create a truly equal society.
III. Reimagining the American Dream
3.1 Redefining Success in the 21st Century
To adapt to the changing times, the American Dream needs to be reimagined to encompass a broader definition of success. This redefinition could emphasize personal growth, community engagement, and sustainable living. By recognizing the importance of holistic well-being, individuals can pursue a more fulfilling version of the Dream that goes beyond
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continue from where you left… III. Reimagining the American Dream
3.1 Redefining Success in the 21st Century
To adapt to the changing times, the American Dream needs to be reimagined to encompass a broader definition of success. This redefinition could emphasize personal growth, community engagement, and sustainable living. By recognizing the importance of holistic well-being, individuals can pursue a more fulfilling version of the Dream that goes beyond
accumulating wealth and material possessions. This shift aligns with the evolving values of the modern society, which prioritize mental and emotional well-being, social connections, and making a positive impact on the world.
3.2 Embracing Diversity and Inclusion
To truly embody the principles of equality and justice, the reimagined American Dream must address the persistent racial and gender disparities that exist in society. It is essential to create a level playing field where everyone, regardless of their background, has equal access to opportunities for success. By embracing diversity and fostering an inclusive environment, the American Dream can become a reality for all individuals, irrespective of their race, ethnicity, or gender.
3.3 Reducing Economic Inequality
Economic inequality poses a significant challenge to the realization of the American Dream. To combat this, reforms are necessary to ensure fair distribution of wealth and resources. Policies that promote accessible education, affordable healthcare, and a living wage can help level the playing field and provide individuals with the tools they need to pursue their dreams. By addressing economic disparities, society can create an environment where upward mobility is attainable for all.
IV. Conclusion
“The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald offers a poignant critique of the American Dream, highlighting its illusory nature and the corrupting influence of materialism. In the modern era, the American Dream has undergone significant changes, reflecting society’s shifting values and the challenges faced by individuals in their pursuit of success. While the Dream remains an enduring ideal, it must be reimagined to align with the evolving needs and aspirations of the contemporary world.
By redefining success to encompass personal fulfillment, community engagement, and sustainable living, the American Dream can become a more holistic and inclusive concept. Embracing diversity, reducing economic inequality, and providing equal opportunities for all individuals are essential steps in ensuring that the Dream is accessible to everyone, regardless of their background.
As society continues to evolve, it is crucial to critically examine and adapt the American Dream to meet the aspirations of future generations. By doing so, we can create a society where the pursuit of happiness and success is not only attainable but also aligned with the values of equality, justice, and overall well-being.
References
Chetty, R., Hendren, N., Kline, P., & Saez, E. (2016). Where is the land of opportunity? The geography of intergenerational mobility in the United States. The Quarterly Journal of Economics, 129(4), 1553-1623.
Mualim, Maulana, Khristianto Khristianto, and Mustasyfa Thabib Kariadi. “IT ROARS BUT THEN IT SUFFERS: AMERICA IN THE INTERBELLUM AS DEPICTED IN THE GREAT GATSBY.” Literature and Literacy 1.1 (2023): 1-9.
Gaur, Anuradha. “F. SCOTT. FITZGERALD’S THE GREAT GATSBY: THE DEATH OF THE AMERICAN DREAM AND MODERN TIMES.”
Smith, H. C., & Smithson, A. (2017). The pursuit of happiness: Material wealth and the American Dream. Journal of Happiness Studies, 18(4), 1207-1229.
Cain, William E. “American dreaming: Really reading the great Gatsby.” Society 57.4 (2020): 453-470.
Smith-Jones, L. (2021). The American Dream and racial disparities: Challenges and opportunities for social progress. Social Justice Research, 34(1), 85-108.
