Tom Buchanan Symbolism In The Great Gatsby

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Literary devices are used by writers to produce a more special effect in their writing. Symbolism is a major part and makes up most of the story. “The Great Gatsby”, by F. Scott Fitzgerald, is a novel that focuses on symbolism and how it develops a modernist theme. This novel contains symbols that relate the theme, lies and deceit, to a modernist theme, rejection of traditional themes, subjects, and forms. One symbol that represents lies and deceit is Tom Buchanan’s personality. In the beginning of the novel, Tom talks very openly about his racial beliefs stating that the leading, or white race is in danger of being taken over by the colored people of the country. After Tom asked Nick if he has read ‘The Rise of the Coloured Empires', he explained …show more content…
It’s all scientific stuff; it’s been proved” (Fitzgerald 16). Daisy, Tom, and Nick are discussing how the civilization is going down in pieces. Not only is he a racist, he is also extremely unfaithful. His loyalty is presented poorly in the novel. Tom also cheats on his wife, Daisy, and boasts about it to Nick in the first couple chapters. Early on while Tom brings Nick to meet his mistress, Myrtle, Tom ends up punching Myrtle in the face, breaking her nose. After Myrtle mentioned Daisy’s name, “Making a short deft movement Tom Buchanan broke her nose with his open hand” (Fitzgerald 41). Myrtle was arguing with Tom and she kept repeating Daisy’s name. Not only is Tom disloyal, he also shows that he is very willing to beat women. Overall, Tom’s personality is a major illustration of deception. Another example of lies and deceit are the lies told by Jay Gatsby. Jay Gatsby is a dishonest character. Fitzgerald allows the reader to venture and to make assumptions about Gatsby, only revealing the truth towards the conclusion of the novel. Since Gatsby and Nick have become closer, he tells Nick about his past. “I’ll tell you God’s truth.” His right hand suddenly ordered divine retribution to stand by. “I am the son of some
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