Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby” clearly depicts the Jazz Age and the moral decline of the upper class. The main character of this narrative is a wealthy and pompous guy named Tom Buchanan, and it is his remarks that provide significant insight on both his character and the subjects that are covered throughout the book. This essay looks at some of Tom Buchanan’s most important passages, analyzing his views on power, money, and social hierarchy as well as his role in the narrative.
One recurring theme in Tom’s quotes is his staunch belief in the preservation of power and privilege. As he dismisses the notion of social equality, he asserts, “Civilization’s going to pieces. I’ve gotten to be a terrible pessimist about things” (Chapter 1). Tom’s cynicism about social advancement and his worry about losing his high status are both captured in this comment. It displays his opposition to change and draws attention to the escalating conflict between the traditional world and the burgeoning contemporary civilization.
Tom’s quotes also highlight his sense of superiority as a member of the old money class. He boldly proclaims, “I suppose the latest thing is to sit back and let Mr. Nobody from Nowhere make love to your wife” (Chapter 7). This comment displays Tom’s contempt against those of lesser social status, especially those who have obtained their fortune via unorthodox ways, as well as his possessiveness of Daisy. It emphasizes his firmly held conviction that the old money elite are inherently better.
Tom’s character is marked by a hedonistic pursuit of pleasure and self-indulgence. His quote, “I’ve got a nice place here,” he said, his eyes flashing about restlessly, “It belonged to Demaine, the oil man” (Chapter 2), reflects his materialistic mindset. Tom’s focus on material possessions and his desire to showcase his wealth and influence illustrate his obsession with superficial pleasures and his need for external validation.
Tom’s quotes also shed light on his chauvinistic beliefs and his reinforcement of traditional gender roles. He asserts, “The idea is if we don’t look out the white race will be—will be utterly submerged. It’s all scientific stuff; it’s been proved” (Chapter 1). Tom’s racial and social biases are made clear in this comment, along with his dread of the perceived danger to his position and history. It draws attention to his part in maintaining the discriminatory racial and gender conventions of the day.
While Tom embodies the opulence and glamour of the wealthy class, his quotes also reveal the moral corruption that lies beneath the surface. He proclaims, “I’ve been making a small investigation of his past. I found out that he’s an Oxford man” (Chapter 7). This quote exposes Tom’s manipulative nature and his willingness to use personal information as a weapon to protect his own interests. It demonstrates his lack of ethical principles and his sense of entitlement to bend the rules to his advantage.
In “The Great Gatsby,” Tom Buchanan is a captivating figure who stands in for the decadence, entitlement, and moral decay of the affluent. Through his quotations, Fitzgerald sheds light on Tom’s commitment to the upkeep of privilege and power, his superiority as a member of the old money elite, his pursuit of pleasure, his support of gender stereotypes, and his moral degradation. By examining Tom’s character, readers gain valuable insights into the societal dynamics and themes explored in the novel. Tom Buchanan stands as a stark reminder of the destructive consequences that can arise when wealth and privilege are wielded without conscience or empathy.
