Table of contentsThe Valley of Ashes as a symbol of desolationThe Valley of Ashes as a symbol of moral decadenceConclusionBibliographyIn F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel The Great Gatsby , the Valley of Ashes is a haunting symbol of desolation and moral decadence. This barren wasteland, located between West Egg and New York, stands in stark contrast to the opulence and glamor of the novel's other settings. Valley of Ashes represents the harsh reality of the American dream, highlighting the consequences of unchecked materialism and the corruption that permeates society. Through the use of vivid imagery, Fitzgerald effectively portrays the Valley of Ashes as a symbol of societal decline and the emptiness that lies beneath the surface of the Jazz Age. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”?Get the original essayThe Valley of Ashes as a Symbol of DesolationThe Valley of Ashes is described as a “wasteland area” (Fitzgerald 23), characterized by its gray and ashen landscape and the constant presence of smoke and fumes. This is where the ashes of New York's industrial factories are dumped, creating a dark and lifeless environment. This desolation serves as a visual representation of the moral and spiritual decadence that exists in society. The valley is devoid of any signs of life, with only a few “grotesque” and “dismal” houses scattered throughout (Fitzgerald 23). The absence of nature and the absence of hope are palpable, suggesting that the quest for wealth and material possessions has come at the expense of the human spirit. Additionally, the Valley of Ashes is described as a "wasteland", alluding to the story of TS Eliot. poem "The Waste Land", which reflects the disillusionment and despair of post-World War I Europe. By incorporating this reference, Fitzgerald suggests that the Valley of Ashes constitutes a microcosm of a larger societal desert, where the pursuit of the American dream has resulted in the destruction of values ​​and the loss of humanity. The Valley of Ashes as a Symbol of Moral DegradationNot only does the Valley of Ashes represent physical desolation, but it also symbolizes the moral decadence plaguing the characters of the novel. The valley is inhabited by people like George and Myrtle Wilson, who are trapped in a cycle of poverty and desperate to escape their situation. Their pursuit of the American dream ultimately leads to their downfall, as George is consumed by jealousy and Myrtle falls victim to the reckless behavior of the rich. Dr. TJ Eckleburg's billboard, with his faded and decaying eyes, serves as a constant reminder of the moral corruption that exists in society. The eyes are described as “blue and gigantic” and seem to “ruminate on the solemn dump” (Fitzgerald 23). This imagery suggests that there is a higher power that watches over the wastelands and judges the actions of those who reside there. The moral decadence represented by Valley of Ashes is inescapable, as even wealthy characters, such as Tom and Daisy Buchanan, are morally bankrupt and contribute to the destruction of others. Additionally, the Valley of Ashes is also associated with the character of Jay Gatsby. Gatsby, who rose from humble beginnings to great wealth, is ultimately destroyed by his pursuit of material possessions and his inability to let go of the past. Despite his extravagant parties and luxurious lifestyle, Gatsby ultimately remains empty and unfulfilled, much like the barren landscape of the Valley of Ashes. His tragic fate serves as a cautionary tale, warning of the dangers of unchecked ambition.. 2022.