Scope of the study
This paper concentrates mainly on giving an in-depth analysis of symbols namely
In the novel, key symbols such as "the green light," "the valley of ashes," and "the eyes of Doctor T J Eckleburg" play a significant role in conveying deeper meanings Due to the complexity of symbolism in literature, this article focuses on these essential symbols, which have been carefully chosen for their relevance and impact within the narrative.
The evidence for the analysis is extracted directly from the novel “The Great Gatsby” written by American writer F Scott Fitzgerald in 1925.
Objectives of the study
This paper is carried out with the aim to give answers to these following research questions:
• What are the different interpretations of three symbols (the green light, the valley of ashes and the eyes of Doctor T J Eckleburg) in the novel?
• How do they contribute to convey the implied message of the author?
• What are the suggestions for further studies of the same field in the future?
Methods of the study
The primary research method employed in this study is textual analysis, which, as defined by Jack Caulfield in his 2019 book "A Quick Guide to Textual Analysis," encompasses various techniques for describing, interpreting, and understanding texts This method is crucial in literary studies because it highlights the intentionally crafted elements of a text, such as rhyme in poetry or the narrator's perspective in novels, which significantly enhance researchers' comprehension of the text's meaning Furthermore, textual analysis reveals not only the author's intended message but also the unintended connections between the text and its historical or cultural context.
Design of the study
This thesis paper is separated into three main parts: Introduction, Development and Conclusion The main ideas in these parts are presented as follows:
Part I includes the rationale, scope, objectives, research methods and design of the study
Part II of the study is divided into two key chapters Chapter 1 presents the theoretical framework surrounding symbolism in literature The emphasis of this paper lies in Chapter 2, which explores the significance of three symbols found in the renowned novel, The Great Gatsby.
Part III is the conclusion of the study which summarizes the findings and gives possible suggestions for further studies
Theoretical background
An overview of symbolism
Symbolism is the practice of using symbols to express ideas and qualities that differ from their literal meanings Emerging in late 19th century France, symbolism has significantly influenced various fields, including literature, drama, philosophy, and painting According to the Oxford Dictionary, symbolism involves representing concepts through symbols and assigning symbolic meanings to objects, events, or relationships Wang (2011) further elaborates on this concept, highlighting its importance in understanding deeper meanings within artistic expressions.
Symbolism serves as a means to connect elements within a work to broader values beyond it According to Shaw (1881), a symbol is defined as a word, phrase, or expression that encompasses a complex set of associated meanings, often carrying different values than what it represents This understanding aligns with Wilson's definition, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of symbols in literature and art.
(2010), he pointed out that a symbol is “an attempt by carefully studied means- a complicated association of ideas represented by a medley of metaphors-to communicate unique personal feelings”
Tracing back to its origin, the term “symbol” is coined from a Greek word called
The term "Symbolon" refers to a token used to signify friendship by reuniting two previously divided pieces of a board Symbolism focuses on conveying the subjective spirit and personal inner experiences, opting for specific images and symbols rather than direct descriptions This approach allows readers to engage with the subtle and mysterious aspects of the inner spiritual world, encouraging them to interpret emotions and ideas through these enigmatic symbols (Zhang, 2015) Each symbol carries its own mystery, shaped by the relationship between its outward appearance and the inner world it represents.
According to enotes.com, there are five characteristics of symbolism as followed:
Symbols enrich a text by adding layers of meaning, enhancing its depth Without figurative language, readers may struggle to find significance or lessons within a work To effectively convey meaning and resonate with readers, writers employ symbols, prompting a deeper analysis of ordinary objects or images.
Symbols enhance the universal significance of themes and characters in literature In certain works, characters are depicted as heroic figures embodying admirable qualities like bravery and patriotism, elevating their importance beyond that of ordinary individuals Additionally, symbols serve to connect and unify the themes and characters within a narrative, enriching the overall storytelling experience.
Symbols ignites the interest of readers while interacting with the text By interpreting the symbols, readers gradually formulate the meaning of a literary work
Symbols serve as essential tools for unlocking a writer's thoughts and intentions By deeply understanding these symbols, readers can bridge the gap between themselves and the authors, uncovering profound messages about various life aspects that the writers aim to convey through their works and unique writing styles.
Symbols in literature engage readers by inviting them to explore deeper meanings, enhancing their creative thinking and imagination Writers intentionally incorporate these symbols to encourage interpretation, allowing readers to uncover profound messages within the text This process not only enriches the reading experience but also contributes to the development of essential reading skills.
In the book titled “The theory of symbolism” written by Jones Ernest (1916), symbolism has several significant characteristics as followed:
A symbol serves as a representative or substitute for another idea, gaining additional meaning within its context This process involves a flow of significance from a primary idea to a secondary one, ultimately represented by the symbol itself Typically, a more essential concept is symbolized by something less essential, enriching the overall interpretation.
The primary element is defined by its commonality with another entity, which can be either an internal or external association While some connections may seem superficial, they can hold significant emotional weight, particularly in the unconscious mind.
A symbol is characteristically sensorial and concrete, whereas the idea represented may be a relative abstract and complex one
In most uses of the word, a symbol is a manifest expression for an idea that is more or less hidden, secret, or kept in reserve
In the paper “Semantics of the symbol: main theories about the symbol and the themes of symbols in Alexandru Macedonski’s poetry” by Elena Gagiu Pedersen
In 2014, it was noted that the symbol can be examined from two perspectives: that of the writer, who owns the symbol, and that of the readers.
Symbols serve as a rhetorical device for conveying abstract meanings indirectly From the reader's viewpoint, symbols facilitate psychological identification or mystical revelation, requiring interpretation to uncover deeper significance beyond mere appearances Consequently, understanding a symbol relies on the connection between the tangible object and the intended meaning the author wishes to express.
Symbolism in Literature
Symbolism played a crucial role in 19th-century literature, serving as a response to the rapid industrialization and scientific advancements of the time This movement quickly expanded into music and fine arts, with symbolists acting as avant-gardes who embraced diverse styles and mediums Their works aimed to escape the dreariness of reality, exploring themes of dreams, visions, and spirituality Symbolist artists were characterized by their use of abstract forms and vibrant colors, often focusing on central themes such as love, death, anger, fear, sexual awakening, and desire.
Symbolism in literature enhances the significance of events, objects, and characters, providing deeper meanings that contrast with their literal interpretations Authors use symbolism to visually express complex concepts and connect them to central themes, requiring readers to engage critically to uncover hidden meanings Different readers may resonate with various themes, allowing some to connect more swiftly with a text By employing metaphorical symbols, writers can subtly address controversial ideas rather than presenting them overtly Additionally, symbolism adds layers of meaning to a story, enabling emotional connections that range from low to high A careful examination of symbolism allows readers to explore the author's intentions and creative choices Ultimately, symbolism serves as a powerful literary device, presenting new concepts in an unconventional and poetic manner, setting literature apart from fields like economics or history, where ideas are often delivered directly Through symbolism, a work's meaning can gradually unfold, leaving a lasting impression on readers.
The author and the novel
F Scott Fitzgerald, an iconic American novelist and essayist, is celebrated for his vivid portrayal of the Jazz Age in the 1920s Renowned as one of the greatest American writers of the 20th century, he authored five notable novels: "This Side of Paradise," "The Beautiful and Damned," "The Great Gatsby," "Tender is the Night," and the unfinished "The Love of the Last Tycoon." Born into an upper-middle-class family in St Paul, Minnesota, Fitzgerald was primarily raised in New York and received a prestigious education at private schools before attending Princeton University, where he honed his literary skills However, he left college to serve in the army during World War I, where he met Zelda, who initially rejected him due to his financial instability Their relationship blossomed after the success of "This Side of Paradise" in 1920, which brought him both wealth and fame Despite the pressure to provide for his family, Fitzgerald's writing became increasingly reckless, culminating in the publication of "The Great Gatsby" in 1925, a work that gained widespread acclaim only after his passing.
1940 During the last days of his life, Fitzgerald suffered from alcoholism and loneliness without his wife or daughter
1.3.2 The novel: The Great Gatsby
"The Great Gatsby," written by F Scott Fitzgerald in 1925, is a quintessential American novel that captures the societal and cultural transformation of the Jazz Age Central themes include the American Dream and the moral decay prevalent in society during that era Fitzgerald employs rich symbolism to enhance character development, advance the plot, and underscore the novel's key themes The story is narrated by Nick Carraway, providing a unique perspective on the events and characters.
Gatsby, originally James Gatz, is a poor man deeply in love with Daisy, a woman from a prestigious family Their romance is interrupted by war, leading Daisy to marry the wealthy Tom Buchanan When Gatsby returns, now wealthy from bootlegging, he seeks to win Daisy back by throwing lavish parties and buying a house across the bay from her Through his cousin Nick, Gatsby reconnects with Daisy, but when he asks her to leave Tom, she hesitates Heartbroken and disillusioned, Gatsby takes the blame for Myrtle's death, ultimately leading to his tragic demise at the hands of Myrtle's husband, George Wilson In the end, Daisy escapes with her family, unaware of Gatsby's funeral.
Symbolism in The Great Gatsby
The green light
The green light serves as a pivotal symbol in relation to Jay Gatsby and the overarching theme of the novel It appears three times, with its significance shifting based on the context Primarily, the green light symbolizes Daisy, embodying Gatsby's lifelong dream and aspirations This interpretation enhances readers' understanding of Gatsby's character, life, and perceptions Additionally, from a broader perspective, the green light represents the American Dream, reflecting the intense desires of many individuals during the 20th century.
The green light, a constant beacon at the end of Buchanan's dock, serves as a nighttime warning for boats Its significance is first introduced at the conclusion of the first chapter, symbolizing more than just a physical object.
A figure emerged from the shadows of my neighbor's mansion, standing casually with hands in pockets, gazing at the shimmering stars above His relaxed posture and confident stance on the lawn indicated that it was none other than Mr Gatsby, seemingly contemplating his place among the local celestial wonders.
He reached out towards the dark water, trembling with curiosity I looked out to sea and noticed a distant green light, possibly the end of a dock When I turned back to find Gatsby, he had disappeared, leaving me alone in the unsettling darkness.
In "The Great Gatsby," the green light symbolizes Gatsby's longing for Daisy, representing both hope and his unwavering love for her, despite their long separation Gatsby's determination to win Daisy over is evident in his purchase of a mansion across the bay from her home Nick observes Gatsby reaching out to the light, which reflects his desire to reconnect with Daisy Even after five years, Gatsby's feelings for her remain strong, as seen when Nick notes Gatsby's trembling in the darkness The green light also signifies Gatsby's jealousy towards Tom, Daisy's husband, who took away the life Gatsby envisioned with her after returning from war Ultimately, Gatsby's dreams of happiness with Daisy were overshadowed by Tom's presence, highlighting the complexities of love and ambition in the novel.
The green light symbolizes Gatsby's unwavering ambition and personal traits, revealing his deep spiritual connection to his ultimate goal: winning Daisy's love Gatsby's relentless pursuit of wealth was driven by his desire to overcome the social barriers that kept them apart After years of facing numerous challenges, he successfully integrated into the "new money" social elite, ultimately rekindling his romance with Daisy.
In the novel, five years pass swiftly, yet for Gatsby, it represents a relentless journey of self-transformation and resilience Despite the numerous challenges he faces, Gatsby remains an indomitable figure, especially in his pursuit of winning back Daisy from the formidable Tom, who holds both wealth and privilege Gatsby boldly asserts their equality by stating, “The only respectable thing about you, old sport, is your money,” showcasing his unwavering determination His elaborate plan to rekindle his romance with Daisy is evident through extravagant parties designed to capture her attention, and his friendship with Nick blossoms only after he learns of Nick's connection to Daisy Gatsby’s relentless pursuit of his dreams and his willingness to leverage every opportunity ultimately earn him the endearing title of “The Great Gatsby” from Nick.
The green light, described as "single, minute and far away," symbolizes Gatsby's singular dream and foreshadows his tragic fate Gatsby's obsessive pursuit of Daisy blinds him to the reality of his situation, and his death ultimately frees him from the mental anguish of unfulfilled hope The despair of watching Daisy and Tom together would have inflicted deeper emotional wounds than any physical pain The light at the end of Daisy's dock also conveys a subtle message from the author, highlighting the mystery and allure surrounding Gatsby as he stands on his "blue lawn" in darkness, gazing at the green light Through this symbol, Fitzgerald piques the readers' curiosity about Jay Gatsby and his inner struggles.
In the first chapter, the green light symbolizes hope and romance, embodying Gatsby's dream of Daisy Fitzgerald's deliberate pairing of Gatsby with the green light highlights its significance, sparking Nick's curiosity about Gatsby The green light reappears in chapter 5, marking a pivotal moment as Nick facilitates Gatsby's long-awaited reunion with Daisy.
He then invited Daisy to his house and showed her around the mansion
Gatsby remarked that without the mist, he could easily see the home across the bay, highlighting the constant green light that shines at the end of the dock, symbolizing hope and longing.
Daisy abruptly put her arm through his, but he appeared lost in thought, realizing that the immense significance of the light had disappeared forever What once felt close and almost tangible to Daisy, akin to a star next to the moon, had now reverted to being just a green light on a dock This moment marked a decrease in his collection of enchanted objects.
Gatsby's relentless pursuit to reunite with Daisy culminates in his achievement of this goal at his home, symbolizing a long journey marked by obstacles Initially, the distance between Gatsby and the green light representing Daisy was significant, obscured by the mist and the bay The bay symbolizes the social and financial divide between them, while the mist reflects Gatsby's misconceptions about Daisy and the elite class In a society where wealth and status overshadow moral values, individuals often mask their emotional detachment with a façade of extravagance Under the notion that "love is blind," Gatsby idealizes Daisy as the epitome of perfection, failing to acknowledge her flaws and the reality of her social standing This unconditional love leads him to momentarily lose himself in a dreamlike state during their reunion, overlooking the complexities surrounding their relationship.
As Gatsby stood before Daisy, the distance between them seemed to vanish, alleviating his fear of losing her once again He could finally touch and feel her presence, contrasting sharply with his previous longing symbolized by the green light across the water This light, once a beacon of hope that soothed his heartache, had transformed into a mere object at the pier Daisy's return filled the void in Gatsby's soul, marking her reemergence as the ultimate reward he had long sought.
The once "colossal significance" of the green light on the dock diminished after Gatsby reunited with Daisy, transforming the light back to its ordinary function However, it continued to symbolize Gatsby's deeper aspirations, as his ultimate goal was not merely to reconnect with Daisy but to marry her officially While it's unclear if Gatsby would have engaged in an affair with Daisy as long as they were together, his desire for her to be recognized as his legitimate wife reflects his gentlemanly nature and deep respect for her This desire underscores why Gatsby truly deserves the title "The Great Gatsby."
Compared to chapter 1, the second introduction of the green light is as crucial as the first one since its presence now is totally different than the previous appearance
Gatsby's transformation from a figure of "colossal significance" to a mere object reflects his newfound proximity to Daisy, eliminating the need for him to reach out towards the distant green light The novel's final glimpse of the light occurs through Nick's reflections after Gatsby's tragic death, where George, consumed by grief, kills Gatsby and then takes his own life Despite Nick's attempt to inform Daisy of Gatsby's funeral, she and Tom flee East Egg, seeking to bury the truth of Daisy's involvement in Myrtle's death Disgusted by the events he witnessed, Nick resigns from his job and seeks psychological treatment, as memories of Gatsby and the green light continue to haunt him.
The valley of ashes
In addition to the green light as a romantic symbol, the valley of ashes serves as a stark representation of 1920s American life, highlighting the significant divide between the wealthy and the impoverished Featured prominently in chapters 2, 4, and 8 of the novel, the valley symbolizes the moral decay of society and the hardships faced by individuals in their everyday existence.
The Valley of Ashes in The Great Gatsby is an industrial area located in Queens, positioned between West Egg and New York City While it is not literally composed of ashes, its gray and smoke-filled appearance is a direct result of nearby factories This desolate landscape is situated alongside train tracks and a road connecting West Egg to Manhattan, which characters like Nick utilize for transportation Additionally, the area features a small river and a drawbridge used for delivering products from factories to construction sites.
First introduced in Chapter 2, the valley of ashes appeared in Nick’s description while he was on his way to meet Tom’s mistress, Myrtle Wilson
Halfway between West Egg and New York, a motor-road merges with the railroad, skirting a desolate area known as the valley of ashes This eerie landscape resembles a fantastical farm where ashes grow into hills and grotesque gardens, taking the shape of houses, chimneys, and even men who move through the powdery air As the ash-grey workers stir up clouds of ash with their spades, their actions remain obscured from view The valley is bordered by a foul river, and when the drawbridge rises for barges, train passengers are left to gaze at this dismal scene for extended periods It was during one of these halts that I first encountered Tom Buchanan's mistress.
The valley of ashes symbolizes the harsh consequences of industrialization and consumerism in the 1920s, highlighting the stark contrast between the impoverished working class and the affluent elite This desolate area represents the by-product of the American Dream, where the wealth of the nouveau riche stems from industries that prioritize profit over the well-being of the labor force Instead of lush farmland, the valley is filled with ashes and pollution, reflecting the grim reality faced by its residents, who endure a life devoid of hope and vitality The imagery of “ash-grey men” laboring with “leaden spades” illustrates their despair, while characters like George Wilson epitomize the toll of this bleak existence, as they become indistinguishable from their polluted surroundings In contrast to the opulence of East Egg and West Egg, the valley of ashes stands as a stark reminder of exploitation and the loss of life’s brightness.
"The valley of ashes" symbolizes the moral emptiness that arises from the relentless pursuit of wealth and personal desires, reflecting the internal struggles of the characters Tom Buchanan, consumed by his immoral desire for Myrtle, shows no respect for Daisy and exhibits contempt for George, whom he views as inferior due to his lower social status Myrtle, desperate to escape her unhappy marriage, finds herself drawn to Tom, leading to a toxic relationship fueled by their shared darkness The consequences of their affair disrupt the Buchanan household, as Myrtle's persistent calls create tension and highlight the lack of mutual understanding and trust in Tom and Daisy's marriage Despite the luxurious facade of their home, it resembles a valley of ashes, devoid of warmth and happiness, illustrating the destructive impact of greed, betrayal, and lies on their lives Ultimately, the valleys within Tom, Daisy, and Myrtle serve as a reflection of their misguided actions, trapping them in a cycle of despair.
At the core of Gatsby's existence lies a personal valley of ashes, marked by loneliness, a yearning for societal recognition, and the hollowness of wealth gained through illegal means His hope for happiness is intertwined with Daisy, the green light symbolizing his escape from despair, despite her prioritization of financial stability and social status, revealing her materialistic nature Similarly, the narrator Nick experiences his own valley of ashes, feeling disgusted by the cruelty and indifference of characters like Tom and Daisy, leading him to leave New York and seek psychological treatment While their valleys of ashes stem from different sources, both Gatsby and Nick are ultimately victims of a society where wealth and privilege dictate treatment and value.
All characters, despite their struggles in the valley of ashes, share a commonality: they endure mental strain stemming from their own ambition and obsession This perspective suggests that they warrant greater empathy rather than criticism.
In chapter 4 of the novel, the valley of ashes reappears as Gatsby and Nick pass through it on their way to a meal Their journey takes a turn when Gatsby is pulled over for speeding, but he cleverly uses a mysterious card to avoid a ticket Following this incident, Gatsby requests Nick's assistance in arranging a long-awaited reunion with Daisy.
"I have a significant request to make today," he stated, contentedly storing his souvenirs "Before I proceed, I believe it's important for you to know a bit about me, as I wouldn’t want you to perceive me as just an ordinary person."
As we passed through the valley of ashes, I caught a fleeting glimpse of Mrs Wilson energetically working at the garage pump, her vitality evident in her efforts.
With our fenders spread wide like wings, we illuminated half of Astoria as we navigated through the towering pillars of the elevated train Suddenly, the unmistakable sound of a motorcycle echoed nearby, accompanied by a frantic policeman who raced alongside us.
"All right, old sport," called Gatsby We slowed down Taking a white card from his wallet he waved it before the man's eyes
"Right you are," agreed the policeman, tipping his cap "Know you next time, Mr Gatsby Excuse me!"
"What was that?" I inquired "The picture of Oxford?"
"I was able to do the commissioner a favor once, and he sends me a Christmas card every year." (Fitzgerald, 2013, p.73-74)
East Egg and West Egg symbolize the stark contrast between old money and new money, while Manhattan serves as the backdrop for business dealings and organized crime Gatsby's mysterious Christmas card to the policeman hints at the dubious connections between law enforcement and criminal elements It becomes evident that Gatsby is entangled in organized crime, led by Meyer Wolfsheim When Nick inquires about the card, Gatsby attempts to downplay its significance, claiming he did a favor for the commissioner, which suggests that individuals like him receive protection from those in power This narrative illustrates how authority and wealth can easily shield wrongdoings and violations of the law in society.
The next time that we see the valley of ashes is in chapter 8 when George Wilson looked at the ash heaps and tried to find moral guidance
“Wilson's glazed eyes turned out to the ash heaps, where small grey clouds took on fantastic shape and scurried here and there in the faint dawn wind.”
The valley where the lower classes lived symbolizes the deadlocks and miseries of their existence, suffocating both its inhabitants and surroundings in heat and despair George Wilson epitomizes the struggles faced by those in this ashy environment, where the term "fantastic" ironically describes the small grey clouds that obscure the sky The pervasive ashy color envelops people, buildings, and roads, mirroring Wilson’s glazed eyes and highlighting his mental anguish Despite relentless hard work, George and his wife remain trapped in a polluted area, their only asset being a small garage, while dreams of escape linger unfulfilled due to their financial struggles Myrtle's affair with Tom further underscores the impact of poverty and betrayal in their lives Ultimately, the valley of ashes serves as a metaphorical maze, entangling characters like George and Myrtle in a cycle of despair with no apparent way out.
The last reference to the ash heaps is when George Wilson comes to murder Gatsby and commits suicide
The butler waited in vain for a telephone message until four o'clock, long after it would have mattered Gatsby seemed to have lost hope, realizing he had sacrificed too much for a singular dream As he gazed at the unfamiliar sky and shivered at the stark reality of the world around him, he recognized the unsettling nature of beauty and the harshness of the sunlight on the new grass This new reality felt material yet unreal, filled with lost souls drifting aimlessly, much like the ghostly figure approaching him through the trees.
In the article, the term "fantastic" is used to describe Wilson as "ashen and fantastic" as he approaches Gatsby, highlighting the stark contrast between the opulent world of East Egg and the looming presence of the valley of ashes This valley symbolizes the disdainful view the wealthy have towards the less fortunate, representing the moral decay that threatens their extravagant lifestyles The reappearance of the valley of ashes in the final chapter serves as a powerful reminder of the inevitable repercussions of immoral actions Despite their luxurious lives in mansions like Gatsby's, Tom and Daisy cannot escape the haunting reality of the ashy valley that follows them.
The eyes of Doctor T J Eckleburg
The eyes of Doctor T J Eckleburg serve as a significant symbol in the narrative, appearing in chapters 2, 7, and 8, with their meaning evolving throughout the story From a spiritual perspective, these eyes represent the moral compass within individuals or serve as a symbol of divine oversight Additionally, they reflect the plight of the working class in the valley, highlighting their struggles and abandonment during a time of rapid industrial growth.
In "The Great Gatsby," the iconic billboard featuring the bespectacled eyes of Doctor T.J Eckleburg looms over the desolate landscape, symbolizing the pervasive emptiness of the 1920s F Scott Fitzgerald drew inspiration for this emblematic figure from the era's fascination with optical advertisements, reflecting the societal values and materialism of the time.
Readers first come across Doctor T.J Eckleburg and his uncanny eyes in Nick’s description as he and Tom passed the valley to meet Myrtle
Above the desolate grey land and the drifting dust, the eyes of Doctor T J Eckleburg emerge, blue and enormous, with retinas that stand a yard tall These eyes, set within a pair of large yellow spectacles devoid of a face or nose, seem to watch over the bleak landscape, a remnant of an oculist's abandoned practice in Queens Although faded by the elements, the eyes continue to loom over the solemn dumping ground, casting a watchful gaze As I followed Tom over a low white-washed railroad fence, we walked under the unyielding stare of Doctor Eckleburg, emphasizing the eerie atmosphere of the surroundings.
"Terrible place, isn't it," said Tom, exchanging a frown with Doctor Eckleburg (Fitzgerald, 2013, p.26)
The billboard, described as "blue and gigantic" with "retinas one yard high," looms over its surroundings, creating an eerie presence with its "gigantic eyes," "no face," and "non-existent nose." This personification suggests it possesses a character capable of observing and reacting, as it seems to "look out," "persistently stare," and even "exchange a frown" with Tom The eyes reflect a deep concern for the immoral behaviors occurring in the valley, symbolizing the inherent conscience within every individual According to Sigmund Freud, newborns are moral blank slates, born with an honest heart and a pure conscience However, as they encounter various influences such as living conditions and education, their moral compass can shift, leading to changes in their conscience in both positive and negative directions.
The faded eyes of Doctor T.J Eckleburg, once a prominent advertisement for an optometrist in Queens, now symbolize the despair of the valley of ashes, a place marred by dust and pollution This decline mirrors the struggles of the impoverished residents left behind by industrial and technological advancements, contrasting sharply with the opulence of new and old money in East Egg Through Nick's perspective, the eyes serve as a vigilant observer of the harsh realities faced by the valley's inhabitants In contrast, George views them as a representation of God, offering a sense of hope amidst the suffering in this desolate landscape.
"Do you have a church you occasionally attend, George, even if it’s been a while? I could reach out to the church and arrange for a priest to visit and have a conversation with you."
Wilson's glazed eyes turned out to the ash heaps, where small grey clouds took on fantastic shape and scurried here and there in the faint dawn wind
After a prolonged silence, he confessed, "I spoke to her and warned that while she might deceive me, she could never deceive God I led her to the window and emphasized, 'God is aware of all your actions; you can trick me, but you cannot trick God!'"
Standing behind him Michaelis saw with a shock that he was looking at the eyes of Doctor T J Eckleburg which had just emerged pale and enormous from the dissolving night
"God sees everything," repeated Wilson
Michaelis reassured him, saying, "That's just an advertisement." However, something compelled him to turn away from the window and glance back into the room Meanwhile, Wilson remained by the window for an extended period, his face pressed against the glass as he nodded into the fading light of twilight.
In the conversation between George and Michaelis, the eyes of Doctor T J Eckleburg transcend their role as a mere billboard, embodying a spiritual representation of God George, who endures both physical suffering and mental anguish, emerges as the most pitiable character in the novel, finding solace only in his unwavering belief in his inner self during his darkest moments Despite his denial of religious affiliation, George's faith in a higher power reflects a common tendency among the hopeless to seek divine support This belief serves as a refuge amid life's storms, providing the strength needed to face challenges The symbol of the eyes offers a spiritual compensation for the decay, flawed legal systems, and rampant materialism of the era, revealing that individuals, regardless of their faith, can draw upon God or a mysterious force for comfort in times of distress George's introspective gaze at the window parallels Gatsby's longing for the green light, which symbolizes the pursuit of happiness, while the eyes signify the forgotten religious freedom of the Jazz Age Both characters, despite recognizing the unattainability of their dreams, maintain hope for a brighter future, and their tragic deaths underscore the disillusionment of the American Dream, leaving readers with a profound sense of regret and empathy.
In chapter 7, the eyes symbolize a mysterious power, reinforcing the idea of an omniscient God introduced in chapter 8 This symbolism reemerges when Nick, Tom, and Jordan stop at Wilson’s garage for petrol on their journey to Manhattan.
As we drove in silence, the fading effects of the ale made us all irritable The sight of Doctor T J Eckleburg's faded eyes on the road reminded me of Gatsby's warning about gasoline, adding to the unsettling atmosphere of the area Even in broad daylight, there was an eerie feeling, and I instinctively turned my head, sensing something behind us The giant eyes of Doctor T J Eckleburg watched over the ash heaps, but I soon realized that other eyes were intensely observing us from less than twenty feet away.
In one of the windows over the garage the curtains had been moved aside a little and Myrtle Wilson was peering down at the car.” (Fitzgerald, 2013, p.130)
As Nick passes through the valley of ashes, he senses an ominous premonition, feeling as if he has been warned of impending danger He observes Myrtle by the curtains, fixated on their car, foreshadowing the tragic accident that will claim her life as she rushes out to stop Gatsby and Daisy's speeding vehicle Mistaking the yellow car for Tom's, Myrtle’s desperation to escape her dismal life with her oblivious husband, George, leads to her fatal decision From a religious perspective, the eyes symbolize a transcendent power that can foresee future events, offering readers a glimpse into the sacred and mystical elements of faith, even if the author does not overtly emphasize this significance.
In "The Great Gatsby," the theme of morality and justice is overshadowed by the selfishness and cruelty of society, reflecting a loss of faith The symbol of "The eyes of Doctor T J Eckleburg" represents a time when religion faltered, with the watchful eyes observing the valley of ashes embodying an innate sense of right and wrong within individuals Furthermore, these eyes parallel the plight of the valley's residents, both enduring the neglect of an era dominated by consumerism and industrialization Ultimately, the eyes symbolize a watchful God judging American society as a moral wasteland.
1 The contribution of symbols to the implied messages of the novel
In this part, how the symbols mentioned contribute to convey the implied message of the novel “The Great Gatsby” will be discussed in details
Themes and implied messages are essential components of successful writing According to Holmon and Hunt (1985) in "A Handbook to Literature," a theme is defined as "a central idea…the abstract concept that is made concrete through representation in person, action and image." Through these themes, authors express their views and attitudes on various issues The primary idea developed throughout the narrative is known as the book's message, which is typically conveyed implicitly, requiring readers to engage in deep analysis to fully grasp its meaning Rather than being easily identifiable in a specific sentence, the message of a literary work is uncovered through reflection and various literary techniques, including contrast, recurrence, presupposition, and symbolism.
In "The Great Gatsby," F Scott Fitzgerald employs symbolism, particularly through the green light, to convey deeper meanings and establish connections with readers While the green light primarily symbolizes Gatsby's longing for happiness, it transcends his personal aspirations, allowing readers to see reflections of their own desires for love, wealth, and fulfillment This universal yearning resonates with many, making Gatsby's journey relatable and poignant Additionally, the green light signifies the hope and potential for a brighter future, embodying the dreams that drive both Gatsby and others in their pursuits.
Suggestions for further studies
Due to the constraints of a coursework dissertation, it is essential to explore various elements such as metaphor, simile, irony, allusion, and other figures of speech, as symbolism represents just one category of rhetorical devices utilized in the novel.
In "The Great Gatsby," the connection between symbols and the literary culture of the Jazz Age warrants thorough investigation to highlight the novel's core values Future studies should not only focus on specific symbols but also explore the significant meanings behind the symbolic colors used throughout the text The author employs a diverse palette, including green, yellow, red, grey, gold, and white, to provide insights into the characters' lives and traits, establishing "The Great Gatsby" as one of the most visually impactful works in literature Incorporating an analysis of these colors alongside the main symbols will enhance the interpretative process, making it more concrete and comprehensive.
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