Values and Goals in "The Great Gatsby"What are the values and goals of the world described in this novel?In The Great Gatsby, Fitzgerald depicts the story of high society and life among the affluent. However, Fitzgerald shows to the reader a complete lack of morals and ethics among his central characters. The central figure in The Great Gatsby, Jay Gatsby, exemplifies his comrades in regard to his integrity and goals in life. Foremost, how Gatsby received his tremendous fortune is frequently questioned and examined. Gatsby himself claims he is in the drug business, referring to a chain of drug stores he owns. However, others openly question Gatsby s wealth, primarily Tom Bucchanan, and Gatsby becomes nervous and hesitant when asked about his money. Although Gatsby has become financially and socially successful, he continues to strive for a distant, elusive dream; to regain his relationship with Daisy. Although the large majority of characters in Fitzgerald s novel are unethical, some people exhibit respectable lives. The virtuous figures in The Great Gatsby are different from everyone else in the novel. Nick Carraway, the narrator, views the paradoxical way of life around him without prejudice. Unlike his friends, Nick demonstrates some aspiration in his job working with bonds. Although Nick s income is significantly smaller than those around him, Nick actually earns the money instead of inheriting wealth or using illegal activities to support. One other character in the book, Mr. Wilson, also demonstrates respectable moral standards in the novel. Mr. Wilson owns a gas station in the valley of ashes and is acquaintanced with all characters in the novel. Mr. Wilson s wife, Myrtle, is having an affair with Tom Buchanan. When Mr. Wilson becomes aware of the affair, he does not take any brash action.

Despite the exceptions of Mr. Wilson and Nick, The Great Gatsby depicts a superficial disgraceful lifestyle. The characters express no desire or passion in life; their thoughts regard only the next party. While Daisy at least recognizes the pathetic reality of their lives, she does nothing to improve her life. The more affluent, but ignorant and unethical characters in The Great Gatsby enjoy a life free from responsibility. Fitzgerald manifests the lack of values and ambition among the wealthy throughout his novel. by jmjohns@nfis.com