-
Essay / Carelessness in The Great Gatsby: An Analysis by Tom Buchanan
The Great Gatsby, written by F. Scott Fitzgerald, is a renowned novel that explores the themes of wealth, love, and carefreeness in the America of the 1920s. Throughout the story, the author highlights the reckless behavior of the characters, reflecting the moral decadence of society during the Jazz Age. One of these characters, Tom Buchanan, embodies carefreeness in various aspects of his life. This essay will look at Tom's recklessness as depicted in the novel, examining his actions and their consequences, ultimately revealing the destructive nature of his behavior. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an original essay An example of Tom's recklessness is evident in his marriage to Daisy. Although he is married, Tom carries on an affair with Myrtle, a lower-class married woman. This act of infidelity illustrates his disregard for the sanctity of marriage and his selfish pursuit of pleasure. Additionally, Tom's reckless behavior extends to his treatment of Daisy. He often puts her down, dismisses her feelings, and manipulates her emotions. This is particularly evident in the scene where Tom brings Daisy and Gatsby face to face, showing his indifference to their emotions and the potential consequences of his actions. Supporting Evidence: In Chapter 2, Tom openly displays his affair with Myrtle, creating tension. and unease at a rally in New York. Fitzgerald describes Tom's reckless behavior by stating: "In making a short skillful movement, Tom Buchanan broke his nose with his open hand" (Fitzgerald, 37). Analysis: Tom's actions not only demonstrate his carelessness towards his marriage, but also highlight the prevailing power dynamic. during time. His physical abuse of Myrtle shows his lack of empathy and disregard for the consequences of his actions. In addition to his disdain for marriage, Tom also demonstrates recklessness in his racist attitudes. He frequently makes derogatory remarks about people of different races and backgrounds, highlighting his superiority complex. Tom's careless behavior is evident in his conversation with Nick, where he states: "Nowadays, people start by making fun of family life and family institutions, then they throw it all overboard and marry between black and white” (Fitzgerald, 130 years old). . This quote highlights Tom's racist beliefs and his rejection of all progressive ideas. Supporting Evidence: Tom frequently uses racial slurs and derogatory language to express his contempt for people of different races. Fitzgerald highlights this in chapter 1, stating, “Tom has a wife in New York” (Fitzgerald, 13). Analysis: Tom's racist attitudes not only show his carelessness towards the feelings of others, but also reflect the deep-rooted racism prevalent in society during this time period. the 1920s. His beliefs perpetuated a cycle of discrimination and inequality, contributing to the moral decline of the era. Another aspect of Tom's recklessness can be seen in his reckless driving habits. Throughout the novel, he is depicted as a reckless driver, often putting himself and others in danger. This behavior is highlighted in the scene where Tom, Daisy, Nick and Jordan go to New York together. Tom drives at high speed, disregarding traffic rules and endangering the lives of those around him. Supporting Evidence: Fitzgerald describes Tom's reckless driving, stating, “We were going sixty miles an hour. We passed through Albany, then twenty, 1925.