The setting in The Great Gatsby is more than just a backdrop to the action that takes place; it is a significant symbol in its own right. F. Scott Fitzgerald richly describes the locations of the novel, from the sprawling mansions of East and West Egg to the gritty streets of New York City. Each setting is carefully crafted to convey a deeper meaning to the reader, and provides a powerful insight into the themes of the story.
The extravagant parties held at Gatsby’s mansion are a prime example of how setting is used as a symbol in The Great Gatsby. The opulent parties are designed to represent the carefree extravagance of the wealthy elite, who are free to indulge in all the luxuries the world has to offer. However, beneath the surface of this seemingly idyllic world lies a darker truth, as the characters are ultimately driven by their insatiable desires for wealth and status.
Ultimately, the setting in The Great Gatsby is more than just a picturesque backdrop, it is a key element of the novel that helps to convey the complexities and contradictions of the story. From the lavish parties at Gatsby’s mansion to the gritty streets of New York City, each location is rich with symbolism and meaning. As readers, we are invited to explore the world of the novel, and to discover the deeper truths that lie beneath the surface.
East Egg vs. West Egg
In The Great Gatsby, F. Scott Fitzgerald uses the settings of East Egg and West Egg to symbolize the separation between the old and new money of the 1920s. East Egg represents the old money, where the wealthy families have inherited their fortunes and the social circles are exclusive. The characters that reside in East Egg are Nick’s cousin, Daisy, and her husband Tom Buchanan, who come from a long line of wealthy individuals and are the epitome of the elite class.
On the other hand, West Egg embodies the new money, where the rich have made their fortunes through business and entrepreneurial ventures. The characters that reside in West Egg are Jay Gatsby, the main protagonist, and his friend, Nick Carraway, who comes from a wealthy family but is not part of the old money elite like those in East Egg.
- East Egg represents established wealth and tradition
- West Egg represents the rags-to-riches stories and new money
- East Egg residents consider themselves superior to West Egg residents
The contrast between East Egg and West Egg is highlighted in the novel by the differences in lifestyle, manners, and values of their residents. For example, the Buchanan’s display their wealth through purchases of expensive items, such as their home and car, while Gatsby’s parties reflect his new money status with extravagant displays of wealth. The tension between the two settings creates a sense of conflict, highlighting the cultural changes that occurred during the 1920s.
| East Egg | West Egg |
|---|---|
| Old money | New money |
| Exclusive social circles | Open to outsiders |
Fitzgerald effectively uses the settings of East Egg and West Egg to reveal the corruption and moral decay that began to infiltrate the wealthy in the 1920s. The rivalry between the two settings illustrates the conflict between traditional values and modern society. The contrast between old and new money demonstrates the changing nature of the American dream and the pursuit of wealth.
The Valley of Ashes
One of the most significant settings in The Great Gatsby is the Valley of Ashes. It is a desolate and depressing place that is located between West Egg and New York City, where industrial and technological surpluses are dumped. The Valley of Ashes is symbolic of the moral and social decay that existed during the Roaring Twenties. The following are the main reasons why the setting of the Valley of Ashes is so meaningful in the novel.
- The Valley of Ashes represents the failure of the American Dream – In The Great Gatsby, the Valley of Ashes is a place where the poor and immigrants, like George and Myrtle Wilson, live and work. The ashes are symbolic of the destruction of a dream, the American Dream, which is meant to be the foundation of the country. The people in the Valley of Ashes are tired, disillusioned, and trapped in a cycle of poverty and despair, unable to achieve the success they desire.
- The Valley of Ashes represents moral decay – The industrial landscape of the Valley of Ashes is a vivid representation of the moral decay that Fitzgerald saw in America during the 1920s. The wealthy classes, like the Buchanans and Gatsby, party and indulge in their excesses while ignoring the plight of the poor and the destruction their industries are causing in the Valley of Ashes.
- The Valley of Ashes represents the emptiness of the upper class lifestyle – The Valley of Ashes is a stark contrast to the luxurious lifestyle of those living in West Egg and New York City. The stark and barren landscape of the Valley of Ashes is a symbol of the emptiness and meaninglessness of the upper class lifestyle. The people in the Valley of Ashes work hard every day, yet their efforts go unnoticed and unappreciated.
The setting of the Valley of Ashes is one of the most significant ones in The Great Gatsby. It serves to represent the failure of the American Dream, moral decay, and the emptiness of the upper class lifestyle. Fitzgerald crafted this setting with vivid imagery and powerful symbolism to give readers a glimpse of the harsh realities of life during the Roaring Twenties.
The Mansion of Gatsby
The setting in The Great Gatsby is integral to understanding the themes and symbols throughout the novel. The mansion of Gatsby is one of the more significant settings of the novel as it represents both the luxurious and the elusive aspects of Gatsby’s life.
- The mansion is an emblem of Gatsby’s wealth and extravagance. The massive structure, complete with its enormous lawn and fountains, is a testament to the lavishness of Gatsby’s lifestyle. The mansion is a physical embodiment of the American Dream, the notion that dreams can be turned into reality with hard work and dedication. In this case, it represents how Gatsby was able to rise up from poverty to become one of the richest men in the country.
- On the other hand, the mansion also represents the emptiness and futility of the American Dream. Despite all his wealth, Gatsby is still unable to achieve his ultimate goal of winning Daisy’s heart. The mansion is just a facade – a hollow symbol of Gatsby’s wealth and status. It is a symbol of how the American Dream can ultimately lead to disillusionment, emptiness, and tragedy.
- The mansion also represents the isolation and loneliness of Gatsby’s life. Despite throwing extravagant parties every weekend, Gatsby is still alone in his luxurious mansion. The parties are just a surface-level distraction from the emptiness he feels inside.
In conclusion, the mansion of Gatsby is a complex symbol that represents both the potential and the emptiness of the American Dream. It is a physical representation of Gatsby’s wealth, loneliness, and ultimate failure to obtain true happiness. These themes are woven throughout the novel’s setting and contribute to the overall poignant message of the story.
The Eyes of Doctor T. J. Eckleburg
The Eyes of Doctor T. J. Eckleburg are a significant symbol in The Great Gatsby. These eyes are a faded advertisement on a billboard that looms over the wasteland of ash that separates West Egg and New York City. The eyes are blue and gigantic, making them stand out from the landscape.
The eyes represent the loss of spiritual values in America. They have been interpreted as the eyes of God, watching the people below, who are oblivious to their presence. The eyes are also seen as a representation of the moral decay of society. They suggest that America is a place where materialism and hedonism have taken over, leaving no room for higher aspirations.
The Eyes of Doctor T. J. Eckleburg represent:
- Spiritual decay in America
- The loss of moral values in society
- The impact of commercialism on culture
The Eyes of Doctor T. J. Eckleburg – An Analysis
The Eyes of Doctor T. J. Eckleburg are also a reflection of the characters’ inner experiences and desires. For example, in the novel, Tom sees himself in the eyes and feels guilty for his infidelity. George, on the other hand, sees the eyes as a clue to the identity of his wife’s lover. The eyes, therefore, represent the characters’ quests for meaning and fulfillment in a world where those things are elusive.
Furthermore, the eyes represent the idea of the American Dream. They reveal the hollowness of the American Dream, which promises opportunities and success but is, in reality, a lie. The characters in the novel are chasing the American Dream, but their pursuits only lead to disillusionment.
The Symbolism of the Eyes of Doctor T. J. Eckleburg in a table format:
| Symbolism | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| Eyes of God | Represents spiritual decay in America |
| Commercialism | The impact of materialism on culture |
| American Dream | Reveals the hollowness of the American Dream |
The Eyes of Doctor T. J. Eckleburg are therefore a powerful symbol that represents the moral decay, spiritual emptiness, and commercialism in America. They also reveal the characters’ innermost desires and struggles as they try to find meaning and purpose in a world that is devoid of those things. Overall, the eyes are a powerful representation of the theme of the novel and the complexities of the American identity.
The Lawn of Daisy’s House
The lawn of Daisy’s house is a crucial symbol in The Great Gatsby, and it represents the false sense of security that the characters in the novel cling to. Gatsby’s romanticized view of Daisy and their past relationship is embodied in his longing to be closer to her, which he tries to achieve by purchasing his mansion near her home, and by throwing extravagant parties in the hopes of seeing her again.
- The lawn is a place where Gatsby tries to rekindle his relationship with Daisy
- Gatsby’s immense wealth is reflected in the manicured lawn of his mansion
- The green light across the water represents Gatsby’s hope for the future, which is tied up in his longing for Daisy
The lawn symbolizes the superficiality and shallowness of the lives of the characters in the novel. They are all chasing after their own desires without thinking about the consequences of their actions. The perfectly manicured lawn is a facade that hides the corruption and crime that lies beneath the surface of their lives. In a way, the lawn is a reflection of the American Dream, which seems idealistic on the surface but is actually built on greed and selfishness.
At one point in the novel, Nick Carraway describes the lawn as being “bright with the gilt of the hot weather”. This description highlights the decadence and extravagance of the lifestyle that the characters lead, and shows just how far removed from reality they really are.
| Symbolism of the Lawn in The Great Gatsby | Description |
|---|---|
| Love and Longing | Gatsby’s love for Daisy and his longing to rekindle their relationship is symbolized by his presence on her lawn |
| Wealth and Decadence | The manicured lawn of Gatsby’s mansion reflects his immense wealth and the extravagant lifestyle of the characters in the novel |
| The American Dream | The lawn symbolizes the superficiality and shallowness of the American Dream, which is built on greed and selfishness |
In conclusion, the lawn of Daisy’s house is a powerful symbol in The Great Gatsby, representing the false sense of security and extravagance that the characters cling to. It is a reminder that the American Dream is not always what it seems, and that the pursuit of wealth and status can lead to corruption and emptiness.
The Weather
The weather in “The Great Gatsby” serves as a symbolic representation of the events and emotions occurring in the story. The changing weather throughout the novel mirrors the changing moods and situations of the characters, and emphasizes the themes of hope, despair, and disillusionment.
At the beginning of the novel, the weather is described as “one of those crisp autumn nights that made us feel alive” (Fitzgerald, 2). This description evokes a sense of excitement and new beginnings, highlighting the hope that characters like Nick and Gatsby have for the future. As the story progresses, however, the weather takes on a darker tone. In chapter seven, the day of Gatsby’s party with Daisy, the weather is hot and oppressive. This heat amplifies the tension and increasing desperation of the characters, culminating in the tragic events of the night.
Overall, the weather in “The Great Gatsby” acts as a literary device, mirroring the emotional and psychological states of the characters, and emphasizing the themes of the novel.
Examples of Weather Symbolism in “The Great Gatsby”
- Heat – represents the characters’ increasing desperation and tensions.
- Rain – symbolizes sadness and disillusionment, often occurring during important moments of the story.
- Fog – represents the characters’ uncertainty and confusion, as they struggle to understand the events of their lives.
Descriptions of the Weather in “The Great Gatsby”
Fitzgerald’s use of vivid descriptions of the weather adds to the novel’s overall atmosphere and mood. For example, in chapter five, the day of Gatsby and Daisy’s reunion, Fitzgerald describes the weather as follows: “The rain cooled about half-past three to a damp mist…the sky gray and deserted” (Fitzgerald, 84). This description reflects the sadness and futility of Gatsby’s attempts to reconnect with Daisy, and emphasizes the impossibility of their relationship.
In contrast, the descriptions of the weather at the beginning of the novel, during Gatsby’s parties, are full of life and vibrancy. Fitzgerald describes “the wind catching up the light, turning it, rushing under the bead strings, making them chime together” (Fitzgerald, 41). This description adds to the feeling of excitement and vitality that surrounds Gatsby’s lavish parties.
Weather Table in “The Great Gatsby”
| Weather Symbolism | Description | Example from the Novel |
|---|---|---|
| Heat | Represents the characters’ increasing desperation and tensions | Chapter 7 – “It was so hot that even Gatsby, who [usually] disdain[s] everything, wouldn’t truncate his unbroken silence” |
| Rain | Symbolizes sadness and disillusionment, often occurring during important moments of the story. | Chapter 5 – “The rain cooled about half-past three to a damp mist…the sky gray and deserted” |
| Fog | Represents the characters’ uncertainty and confusion, as they struggle to understand the events of their lives. | Chapter 3 – “The next day was broiling…but a thick mist lay over the river..” |
The Time of Day
In F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel “The Great Gatsby,” the time of day is closely tied to the symbolic meaning of the setting. Throughout the novel, different times of day are used to represent different aspects of the characters’ lives and themes of the story.
- Morning: Morning in “The Great Gatsby” represents the hope and optimism of a new day. It symbolizes a fresh start, a chance to begin anew. This is particularly evident in the first chapter, when Nick sees Gatsby standing outside, staring at the green light across the water. The morning light enhances the sense of possibility and wonder that Nick feels as he contemplates Gatsby’s mysterious presence.
- Afternoon: Afternoon represents a time of relaxation and indulgence, but also a time of reckoning. It’s when people let their guards down and reveal their true selves. In the novel, this is exemplified by the wild parties that Gatsby throws every weekend. The afternoon sun beats down on the guests, exposing their true natures and highlighting the excess and hedonism of the Jazz Age.
- Evening: Evening represents the impending darkness and the looming threat of the future. It’s a time of transition and change, when the day begins to fade away and the night takes over. In “The Great Gatsby,” this is when the characters become more desperate and unstable. The evening is when the tragedies and betrayals of the story occur, as people try to hold onto what’s slipping away.
- Night: Night in “The Great Gatsby” represents the darkness and mystery that permeates the story. It symbolizes secrecy, deception, and the unknown. This is particularly evident in the scenes that take place in Gatsby’s mansion, where the characters are surrounded by shadows and whispers. The night also represents the unattainable goals that the characters pursue, such as the green light that Gatsby fixates on.
The Significance of the Number 7
Another recurring symbol in “The Great Gatsby” is the number 7. This number appears throughout the novel, from Gatsby’s address (West Egg, Long Island, 7) to the number of guests at his parties (always a multiple of 7).
| Occurrence | Explanation |
|---|---|
| 7 virtues and deadly sins | By incorporating this number, Fitzgerald may be making a commentary on morality and ethics, given that there are seven virtues and deadly sins in the Christian tradition. This could suggest that the characters are grappling with these concepts on some level. |
| Seven years bad luck | The idea of “seven years bad luck” comes from the belief in some cultures that breaking a mirror would result in such a punishment. This could represent the idea that the characters are tempting fate by engaging in reckless and selfish behavior. |
| Seven is a lucky number | In other cultures, the number 7 is associated with good luck and prosperity. This could suggest that the characters are trying to attain wealth and success through their actions. |
Overall, the use of the number 7 adds another layer of meaning to the story, highlighting the complexity and depth of the characters and their motivations.
The Automobile
In “The Great Gatsby,” the automobile serves as a prominent symbol of the rapid changes taking place in society during the 1920s. As this new mode of transportation became more common, it allowed people to move about more freely, which ultimately led to a rise in social mobility.
With the introduction of the automobile, the wealthy elite no longer had a monopoly on mobility. Suddenly, ordinary people were able to travel to destinations that had previously been inaccessible to them. This newfound freedom not only expanded people’s physical horizons, but it also expanded their social and economic horizons as well.
In the novel, the automobile is prominently featured throughout the story, most notably during the various parties attended by the characters. The extravagant cars not only symbolize the wealth and status of those who own them, but they also represent the larger societal changes taking place.
At times, the automobile is also used as a symbol of recklessness and danger. For example, the tragic car accident that occurs towards the end of the story serves as a cautionary tale of the dangers of excess and the consequences that can result from it.
Overall, the automobile serves as a powerful symbol of the dynamic changes that occurred during the 1920s. It represents both the opportunities that were created by newfound mobility and the risks that came with the excesses of the era.
The Pool
In “The Great Gatsby”, the pool is used symbolically to represent different themes such as materialism, wealth, and social status. The pool is introduced early in the story and serves as a metaphor for the superficiality of the characters’ lifestyles.
In chapter three, Gatsby’s party guests are seen lounging and splashing in the pool, which is described as “a mile wide.” This vastness of the pool serves to highlight the extravagance and wealth of the people attending the party. Furthermore, the partygoers’ behavior around the pool emphasizes their carelessness and lack of concern for others. Nick describes the pool as being “… crowded with the faces of the beautiful and the damned.” The use of the word “damned” suggests that these people are somehow flawed or cursed, adding to the theme of moral corruption that runs throughout the novel.
- The pool is a symbol of materialism and excess.
- It highlights the carelessness of the characters.
- The vastness of the pool emphasizes the wealth of the characters.
Later in the novel, the pool takes on a more significant role as a site of tragedy and death. After Gatsby is shot by George Wilson, he falls into the pool and dies. The pool, which was once a place of superficial pleasure and indulgence, becomes a site of mourning and sadness. This shift in the meaning of the pool reflects the novel’s overall message about the destructive nature of materialism and the superficiality of the American Dream.
| Symbolism | Description |
|---|---|
| Materialism | The pool symbolizes materialistic excess and extravagance. |
| Death and Tragedy | The pool becomes a site of death and mourning after Gatsby is shot and falls into it. |
| The American Dream | The pool represents the superficiality of the American Dream and the destructive nature of materialism. |
In conclusion, the pool is a significant symbol in “The Great Gatsby.” It reflects the novel’s overarching themes of materialism, wealth, and social status. Furthermore, the meaning of the pool shifts from a place of superficial pleasure and indulgence to a site of tragedy and death, reinforcing the novel’s message about the destructive nature of materialism and the emptiness of the American Dream.
The Library
In the Great Gatsby, the library is a space that symbolizes knowledge and status. The library is described as one of the most expensive rooms in the house and contains ornate decorations such as “tapestries of Versailles” and “a wooden paneling of enormous value.” This suggests that the library is not just a room for reading, but a display of wealth. Gatsby often uses the library to impress his guests, showing them his extensive collection of books from around the world.
However, the library also represents Gatsby’s longing for a better life and his attempts to reinvent himself. Gatsby, who was born poor, becomes fascinated with wealthy people and their lifestyles. He spends his youth reading books in a library, trying to learn how the rich and powerful behave. This desire for a new life eventually leads him to accumulate wealth by any means necessary, including illegal activities.
Additionally, the library can be seen as a place of isolation for Gatsby. Throughout the novel, Gatsby is often alone in the library, reflecting on his life and lost love for Daisy. The library represents Gatsby’s separation from society, as he is unable to fully connect with those around him, despite his wealth and status.
Symbols in the Library
- Bibliography – Gatsby’s extensive collection of books represents his desire for knowledge and his ability to acquire wealth.
- Tapestries of Versailles – These ornate decorations symbolize Gatsby’s attempt to emulate European aristocracy and his desire for a new, sophisticated life.
- Wooden Paneling – The valuable wooden paneling represents the physical embodiment of Gatsby’s wealth and status.
The Green Light
The green light visible from Gatsby’s library window across the bay represents Gatsby’s desire to relive his past with Daisy. He stares longingly at the light, hoping that Daisy will come back to him. The image of the green light is an important symbol throughout the novel, representing Gatsby’s hope and his eternal strive for a better life with Daisy.
Gatsby’s Daily Routine
In the Great Gatsby, the library provides a space for Gatsby to carry out his daily routine. He begins his day by swimming in his pool and then retires to the library for hours of reading and reflection. This routine gives Gatsby a sense of structure and purpose while also allowing him to escape from his social life and to focus on his dreams of a better life.
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Swimming | Gatsby uses swimming to maintain physical fitness and to relax. |
| Reading | Gatsby reads extensively in the library, often for hours at a time. |
| Reflection | Gatsby spends time reflecting in the library, often pondering his past and lost love for Daisy. |
FAQs: What Does the Setting in The Great Gatsby Symbolize?
1. What is the main setting of The Great Gatsby?
The main setting of The Great Gatsby is Long Island, New York during the 1920s.
2. What does West Egg symbolize in The Great Gatsby?
West Egg symbolizes the new money and the self-made rich people who have not yet gained social acceptance.
3. What does East Egg symbolize in The Great Gatsby?
East Egg symbolizes the old money and the inherited wealth and status that comes with it.
4. What does the valley of ashes symbolize in The Great Gatsby?
The valley of ashes symbolizes the moral and social decay of the people and their values.
5. What does the green light across from Gatsby’s mansion symbolize in The Great Gatsby?
The green light across from Gatsby’s mansion symbolizes his longing for his lost love, Daisy, and his hope and desire for a better life.
6. What does Gatsby’s mansion symbolize in The Great Gatsby?
Gatsby’s mansion symbolizes the isolation and emptiness that comes with excessive wealth and the materialistic concerns of the rich.
7. What does the weather symbolize in The Great Gatsby?
The weather in The Great Gatsby symbolizes the mood and emotions of the characters, especially in moments of tension and conflict.
Closing Paragraph: Thanks for Reading!
We hope these FAQs helped shed some light on the various symbols present in The Great Gatsby’s setting. The novel is a timeless classic that explores the complexities of the human condition, while also offering a critical commentary on the societal norms and values of the 1920s. We encourage you to explore the book further and discover its many layers of meaning and symbolism. Thank you for reading and please visit us again soon for more insightful articles.