Title : Echoes of Patriarchy: Women's Roles and Realities in The Great Gatsby
Hello Everyone ☺️
Personal Information:-
Name:- Pallavi Parmar
Batch:- M.A. Sem 2 (2023-2025)
Enrollment Number:- 5108230034
E-mail Address:- pallaviparmar501@gmail.com
Roll Number:- 20
Assignment Details:-
Topic:- Echoes of Patriarchy: Women's Roles and Realities in The Great Gatsby"
Subject Code: 22403
Paper 106: The Twentieth Century Literature: from 1900 to World War II.
Submitted to:- Smt. Sujata Binoy Gardi, Department of English, MKBU,Bhavnagar.
Date of Submission:-26, April,2024.
Table of Contents :
Abstract
Introduction
About The Great Gatsby
About Female characters
Tragic Fates of the Female Characters
Fitzgerald's Critique of Patriarchal Society
Victimization of Women in a Patriarchal Society
Women's Pursuit of Wealth and Marriage as a Path to Happiness
The Objectification and Commodification of Women
Fitzgerald's Influences and Women Writers
The Contrasting Role of Jordan Baker
The Central Reunion of Gatsby and Daisy
Fitzgerald's Vivid Stylistic Portrayals
American Romantic Idealism vs. Reality
Conclusion
References
Abstract:
In F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby," the portrayal of female characters – Daisy Buchanan, Myrtle Wilson, and Jordan Baker – offers a nuanced examination of gender dynamics and societal expectations in 1920s America. Through these characters, Fitzgerald critiques patriarchal ideology, illustrating its constraints on women's lives. Daisy epitomizes societal expectations, Myrtle reflects the consequences of materialistic aspirations, and Jordan embodies the tension between norms and agency. Through vivid imagery and thematic exploration, Fitzgerald advocates for greater gender equality and social justice, making the novel a timeless reminder of the ongoing struggle for women's rights and autonomy.
Key Words:
Patriarchy, Gender roles, Female characters, Societal expectations, Autonomy, Critique, Oppression, Materialistic aspirations, Gender equality.
Introduction:
In F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby," the female characters play pivotal roles, representing different aspects of society and serving as symbols of the challenges faced by women in the 1920s. Through the characters of Daisy Buchanan, Myrtle Wilson, and Jordan Baker, Fitzgerald critiques the patriarchal society of the time and explores the limitations imposed on women's autonomy and aspirations.
About The Great Gatsby:
Title: The Great Gatsby
Author: F. Scott Fitzgerald
Publisher: Charles Scribner’s Sons
Year of Publication: 1925
Setting: Jazz Age New York
Plot: Focuses on Jay Gatsby, a self-made millionaire, and his pursuit of Daisy Buchanan, a wealthy young woman from his past
Initial Reception: Commercially unsuccessful
Current Status: Considered a classic of American fiction and often referred to as the Great American Novel. (Martinez)
- Daisy Buchanan:
.jpeg)
Daisy Buchanan emerges as the quintessential representation of the traditional female archetype in patriarchal society. Her character embodies the societal expectations placed upon women to conform to established norms and values. As a woman of wealth and status, Daisy symbolizes the idealized image of femininity, epitomizing beauty, elegance, and social grace. Despite her initial affection for Jay Gatsby, Daisy ultimately succumbs to the pressures of her social class and chooses the security of her marriage to Tom Buchanan. Fitzgerald portrays Daisy's decision as a reflection of the prevailing patriarchal values, where women's worth is measured by their marital status and material possessions rather than their personal desires.
- Myrtle Wilson:
In contrast to Daisy's privileged position, Myrtle Wilson represents the disenfranchised working-class woman, oppressed by the constraints of her social standing and the allure of material wealth. Myrtle's affair with Tom Buchanan reflects her desire to transcend her impoverished existence and attain social status. However, her pursuit of materialistic aspirations leads to her tragic demise, symbolized by her death under the wheels of Gatsby's car. Fitzgerald uses Myrtle's fate to highlight the destructive consequences of societal pressures and the illusion of upward mobility perpetuated by the consumer culture of the era.
- Jordan Baker:
Jordan Baker emerges as a foil to Daisy and Myrtle, embodying the archetype of the "new woman" seeking independence and autonomy. As a successful professional golfer, Jordan defies traditional gender roles and pursues her own career aspirations. However, her detachment and dishonesty suggest the limitations imposed on women's agency within the patriarchal society. Despite her outward independence, Jordan remains tethered to the expectations and constraints of the male-dominated world, ultimately unable to find true fulfillment.
Tragic Fates of the Female Characters:
The tragic fates of Daisy, Myrtle, and Jordan underscore the pervasive influence of patriarchal ideology on women's lives in "The Great Gatsby." Despite their individual struggles and aspirations, all three women ultimately face disillusionment and despair. Daisy's loss of innocence, Myrtle's untimely demise, and Jordan's existential emptiness serve as poignant reminders of the oppressive forces that shape and define women's experiences in the 1920s.
Through his portrayal of these female characters, Fitzgerald offers a subtle critique of the patriarchal society of the Jazz Age. The novel exposes the inherent contradictions and injustices perpetrated by a system that marginalizes and exploits women. By highlighting the futility of women's struggles against prevailing gender norms and societal expectations, Fitzgerald underscores the need for societal reform and the recognition of women's inherent worth and agency. (yun)
Victimization of Women in a Patriarchal Society:
In "The Great Gatsby," Fitzgerald offers a searing critique of the patriarchal society of 1920s America, wherein women were often relegated to subservient roles and denied agency. The female characters in the novel serve as poignant examples of the ways in which women were victimized by this oppressive system.
Daisy Buchanan, for instance, finds herself trapped in a loveless and suffocating marriage with Tom Buchanan, a wealthy but callous man. Her character symbolizes the moral decay and emptiness of the upper class, where appearances and social status reign supreme. Daisy's decision to marry Tom is driven not by love but by the belief that marriage to a financially stable man is her only path to success and happiness, highlighting the limited options available to women at the time.
Similarly, Myrtle Wilson, a lower-class woman, becomes ensnared in a toxic affair with Tom Buchanan, who treats her as nothing more than a disposable object to satisfy his desires. Myrtle's tragic fate underscores the degrading treatment of women from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, who were often exploited and discarded by men from higher social strata.
Jordan Baker, a professional golfer and Nick Carraway's love interest, presents yet another facet of the patriarchal society depicted in the novel. Despite her independent and confident demeanor, Jordan is portrayed as morally ambiguous and lacking in accountability. This portrayal reflects the prevailing societal perception of women as inherently deceitful or morally inferior to men, perpetuating harmful stereotypes and limiting women's agency.
So we can say that, Fitzgerald's portrayal of female characters as victims of patriarchal oppression serves as a stark reminder of the systemic inequalities that prevailed during the 1920s and continues to resonate with contemporary discussions surrounding gender equality and women's rights.
Women's Pursuit of Wealth and Marriage as a Path to Happiness:
In "The Great Gatsby," Fitzgerald explores the notion that marriage to wealthy men is often perceived as the only viable path to happiness and success for women in a patriarchal society. This belief, deeply ingrained in the social fabric of 1920s America, renders female characters vulnerable to exploitation and manipulation by morally corrupt men.
Daisy Buchanan exemplifies this pursuit of wealth and status through marriage. Her decision to marry Tom Buchanan, a man of considerable means, reflects her desire for financial security and social validation. However, Daisy's marriage to Tom proves to be hollow and unfulfilling, highlighting the emptiness of pursuing material wealth at the expense of emotional fulfillment.
Myrtle Wilson, on the other hand, seeks to escape her impoverished existence through her affair with Tom Buchanan. Myrtle naively believes that Tom will eventually leave Daisy and marry her, thereby elevating her social status and providing her with the material comforts she desires. Yet, Myrtle's relentless pursuit of wealth and status ultimately leads to her tragic demise, underscoring the folly of equating material success with happiness.
The limited options available to women in the patriarchal society depicted in the novel compel them to prioritize marriage to wealthy men as a means of securing their social and economic standing. This perpetuates a cycle of dependence on men and perpetuates harmful gender stereotypes. Fitzgerald's exploration of this theme serves as a critique of the societal pressures placed on women to prioritize material wealth over personal fulfillment and emotional well-being.
The Objectification and Commodification of Women:
"The Great Gatsby" vividly portrays the objectification and commodification of women by male characters who view them as possessions and objects of desire, rather than as individuals with agency and intellect. This pervasive attitude reflects the broader gender dynamics and power imbalances inherent in patriarchal societies.
Tom Buchanan epitomizes the objectification of women through his treatment of Myrtle Wilson as a disposable object to satisfy his desires. Tom's physical violence towards Myrtle, including breaking her nose when she mentions Daisy, underscores his sense of entitlement and dominance over women from lower social classes.
Similarly, Jay Gatsby's pursuit of Daisy is driven not by genuine love or affection but by a desire to possess her as a symbol of wealth and status. Gatsby's ostentatious displays of wealth, such as his lavish parties and expensive possessions, serve to impress and seduce Daisy, reducing her to a mere trophy or status symbol.
The emphasis on physical beauty and allure further reinforces the objectification of women in the novel. Female characters like Daisy Buchanan are often described in terms of their appearance and sensuality, overshadowing their intellect and agency. This reduction of women to mere objects of desire perpetuates harmful gender stereotypes and undermines their autonomy and humanity.
Through his portrayal of the objectification and commodification of women, Fitzgerald exposes the dehumanizing effects of patriarchal attitudes and calls for a reevaluation of traditional gender roles. The novel serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of recognizing and respecting women's agency and autonomy in the face of systemic oppression. (Guzo)
Fitzgerald's Influences and Women Writers:
Fitzgerald's literary influences evolved significantly as he matured as a writer, transitioning from popular fiction to more serious authors like Willa Cather. This shift suggests a broadening of his understanding of women's experiences beyond societal norms. By engaging with authors who portrayed the complexities of women's lives, particularly in frontier settings, Fitzgerald likely gained insights that informed his portrayal of female characters in The Great Gatsby. This context offers a nuanced perspective on characters like Daisy Buchanan, suggesting that Fitzgerald's depiction may have been influenced by a deeper awareness of women's diverse American experiences, moving beyond mere societal stereotypes.
The Contrasting Role of Jordan Baker:
Jordan Baker's character operates as a narrative device that highlights the stark contrast between Gatsby's illusionary world and the harsh realities of society. Her presence embodies the tension between romantic idealism and disillusionment, existing simultaneously in both realms. Through Jordan, Fitzgerald explores the conflicted position of women within societal constructs, navigating between the allure of dreams and the constraints of reality. This nuanced portrayal offers insights into the complexities of female agency and societal expectations, enriching interpretations of gender dynamics in the novel.
.jpeg)
The reunion between Gatsby and Daisy stands out as a pivotal moment in the novel, serving as both its structural and emotional centerpiece. This scene offers a profound insight into Daisy's character and her agency within the constraints of societal expectations. Through their interaction, Fitzgerald delves into questions of gender roles and choices, providing a nuanced portrayal of Daisy's significance beyond surface-level descriptions. Analyzing this reunion scene unveils layers of complexity in Fitzgerald's portrayal of female characters, offering deeper insights into their motivations and struggles within the societal framework.
Fitzgerald's Vivid Stylistic Portrayals:
Fitzgerald's stylistic prowess, exemplified through vivid metaphors and imagery, provides a rich tapestry for exploring the portrayal of women in the novel. His evocative language often juxtaposes societal expectations with individual agency, inviting readers to interrogate gendered norms and stereotypes. By unpacking these descriptions, readers can discern whether Fitzgerald's language reinforces or challenges prevailing. gender constructs, thereby enriching their understanding of the complexities of female characters in The Great Gatsby.
At the thematic core of the novel lies the juxtaposition of American romantic idealism with harsh societal realities. Through characters like Daisy, Jordan, and Myrtle, Fitzgerald explores the tension between aspirations and limitations, dreams and disillusionments. These characters embody the struggles of women within the societal constructs of the time, offering poignant reflections on gender dynamics and societal expectations. By examining their narratives through this thematic lens, readers gain deeper insights into the complexities of gender roles and the challenges women faced in pursuing their desires within the confines of a rapidly changing society.
So we can say that each of these elements contributes to a nuanced understanding of how The Great Gatsby portrays the roles and realities of its female characters. Through Fitzgerald's engagement with diverse literary influences, vivid stylistic portrayals, and thematic exploration of societal ideals, readers are invited to explore the complexities of gender dynamics in 1920s America through a feminist lens. (Eble)
Conclusion:
In "The Great Gatsby," Fitzgerald presents a nuanced exploration of the female experience in the 1920s, exposing the complexities of gender dynamics and societal expectations. Through the characters of Daisy, Myrtle, and Jordan, he reveals the myriad ways in which patriarchal ideology shapes and constrains women's lives, ultimately advocating for greater gender equality and social justice. As readers navigate the tumultuous world of the novel, they are compelled to confront the enduring legacy of patriarchal oppression and the ongoing struggle for women's rights and autonomy.
So we can see that "The Great Gatsby" delves into the complexities of gender dynamics in 1920s America through its portrayal of Daisy Buchanan, Myrtle Wilson, and Jordan Baker. Fitzgerald critiques patriarchal ideology, illustrating the constraints it imposes on women's lives. Daisy represents societal expectations, Myrtle reflects the consequences of materialistic aspirations, and Jordan embodies the tension between societal norms and personal agency. Through vivid imagery and thematic exploration, Fitzgerald advocates for greater gender equality and social justice. The novel serves as a timeless reminder of the ongoing struggle for women's rights and autonomy.
References:
Eble, Kenneth. “The Great Gatsby.” College Literature, vol. 1, no. 1, 1974, pp. 34–47. JSTOR, http://www.jstor.org/stable/25111007. Accessed 26 Apr. 2024.
Guzo, Nouh Al-. “The Image of Women as Victims in F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby | Jordan Journal of Applied Science-Humanities Series.” Jordan Journal of Applied Science (JJOAS), Jordan Journal of Applied Science - Humanities Series, 1 April 2022, http://jjoas.asu.edu.jo/index.php/jjoas-h/article/view/261. Accessed 26 April 2024.
Martinez, Julia. "The Great Gatsby". Encyclopedia Britannica, 16 Apr. 2024, https://www.britannica.com/topic/The-Great-Gatsby. Accessed 26 April 2024.
yun, WANG Ai-. “The Female Images of The Great Gatsby.” David Publishing Company, Journal of Literature and Art Studies, November 2023, https://www.davidpublisher.com/index.php/Home/Article/index?id=50003.html. Accessed 26 April 2024.
Word count : 2396
Image : 2
Thank you so much for reading 😀
.jpg)
No comments:
Post a Comment