Exploring The Real-Life Influences On F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby

Luna Greco

7 min read

Post on May 11, 2025

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The Shadow of the Roaring Twenties: Historical Context and Social Influences

The Jazz Age and its Excesses: The 1920s, often referred to as the Roaring Twenties or the Jazz Age, was a period of unprecedented economic boom, social upheaval, and cultural transformation in the United States. Prohibition fueled the rise of speakeasies and organized crime, while technological advancements and mass production led to increased consumerism and materialism. This era's extravagance, moral ambiguity, and pursuit of pleasure are vividly reflected in the lavish parties, illicit affairs, and ultimately, the tragic downfall of Gatsby and his world. Keywords: Roaring Twenties, Jazz Age, Prohibition, Social Change, Materialism, Economic Boom, Consumerism.

• Economic Prosperity: The post-World War I boom created a new class of wealthy individuals, many of whom flaunted their wealth with reckless abandon.
• Social Transformations: Rapid social changes challenged traditional values and norms, leading to a sense of disillusionment and moral uncertainty.
• Cultural Shifts: New forms of music, art, and literature emerged, reflecting the era's rebellious spirit and desire for self-expression.

The Rise and Fall of the Nouveau Riche: The Roaring Twenties witnessed the rise of a new wealthy class, the "nouveau riche," who often lacked the established social standing of the "old money" elite. Gatsby's relentless pursuit of wealth and his desperate attempts to gain acceptance into the upper echelons of society perfectly encapsulate the struggles and aspirations of this newly affluent group. Keywords: Nouveau Riche, Social Mobility, Old Money vs. New Money, American Dream, Social Acceptance, Wealth Acquisition.

• Social Climbing: Gatsby's elaborate parties and extravagant displays of wealth are his attempts to buy his way into the acceptance of the established elite.
• Class Divisions: The stark contrast between West Egg and East Egg, representing the new money and old money respectively, highlights the rigid social stratification of the time.
• The Illusion of Success: Gatsby's wealth, ultimately ill-gotten, serves as a poignant commentary on the superficiality and illusion of the American Dream.

Real-Life Characters Who Inspired Gatsby and His World

The Enigma of Jay Gatsby: Parallels with Fitzgerald's Life and Acquaintances: While no single individual perfectly mirrors Jay Gatsby, several real-life figures have been suggested as potential inspirations. Edward "Eddie" Montgomery, a wealthy and enigmatic acquaintance of Fitzgerald, shares certain characteristics with Gatsby, including a mysterious past and a relentless pursuit of a lost love. Analyzing Gatsby’s character through the lens of Fitzgerald’s own biography reveals parallels in their ambition, their pursuit of the elusive American Dream, and their complicated relationships with women. Keywords: Jay Gatsby, Edward Montgomery, Fitzgerald's biography, Character Inspiration, Wealthy Individuals, Mysterious Past.

• Ambition and Drive: Both Gatsby and Fitzgerald possessed an intense ambition, driving them to achieve success despite obstacles.
• Romantic Idealism: Both characters were characterized by a romantic idealism that often blinded them to reality.
• Tragic Flaws: Both Gatsby and Fitzgerald possessed tragic flaws that ultimately contributed to their downfall.

Daisy Buchanan and the Women of Fitzgerald's Life: Daisy Buchanan, with her captivating beauty and elusive nature, bears a striking resemblance to Zelda Fitzgerald, F. Scott Fitzgerald's wife. Zelda's own personality, her social standing, and her complex relationship with Fitzgerald deeply informed Daisy's character. The novel’s portrayal of female characters reflects the societal constraints and expectations placed on women during the Jazz Age. Keywords: Zelda Fitzgerald, Daisy Buchanan, Female Characters, Romantic Relationships, Social Expectations, Gender Roles.

• Unattainable Ideal: Daisy represents the unattainable ideal, a symbol of beauty and glamour that Gatsby strives to possess.
• Social Constraints: Daisy's actions are often limited by societal expectations and her privileged background.
• Complexity and Ambiguity: Daisy’s character is not simply a femme fatale, but a complex woman grappling with her own limitations and desires.

Tom Buchanan and the Representation of Wealth and Power: Tom Buchanan embodies the arrogance and moral corruption often associated with the wealthy elite. Fitzgerald likely drew inspiration from his observations of powerful and entitled individuals within high society, capturing their sense of entitlement and disregard for others. Tom's character serves as a critique of the unchecked power and privilege of the old money class. Keywords: Tom Buchanan, Wealth and Power, Social Elite, Moral Corruption, Arrogance, Entitlement.

• Social Darwinism: Tom’s belief in his inherent superiority reflects the prevailing social Darwinist attitudes of the time.
• Moral Decay: Tom's infidelity and casual cruelty exemplify the moral decay at the heart of the wealthy elite.
• Abuse of Power: Tom’s use of his wealth and social status to manipulate and control others highlights the corrupting influence of power.

Geographical Influences: Long Island and the American Dream

West Egg and East Egg: A Reflection of Social Divisions: The geographical settings of West Egg and East Egg, located on Long Island, are not merely picturesque backdrops but powerful symbols of the social stratification that characterized the 1920s. West Egg, home to the nouveau riche like Gatsby, stands in stark contrast to the established wealth and social prestige of East Egg. Fitzgerald’s personal experiences living on Long Island provided a direct and intimate understanding of these social divisions. Keywords: West Egg, East Egg, Long Island, Geographical Influences, Social Stratification, Social Commentary.

• Visual Metaphor: The geographical separation of West Egg and East Egg visually represents the social chasm between the two groups.
• Social Aspirations: Gatsby’s residence in West Egg, across the bay from Daisy in East Egg, underlines his yearning for acceptance into high society.
• Environmental Symbolism: The descriptions of both settings – the lush beauty of East Egg vs. the slightly less refined West Egg – amplify the social commentary.

The American Dream Deferred: Gatsby’s relentless pursuit of the American Dream, fueled by his love for Daisy, is a central theme in The Great Gatsby. However, the novel ultimately presents a disillusioned perspective on this idealized vision, revealing its unattainability for many, particularly those lacking inherited wealth and social connections. Fitzgerald’s own experiences and observations of the era’s social inequalities are reflected in this critique of capitalism and the promises of upward mobility. Keywords: American Dream, Social Commentary, Critique of Capitalism, Social Inequality, Deferred Dreams, Social Mobility.

• Illusion vs. Reality: Gatsby’s belief in the power of wealth to achieve happiness is ultimately shattered by the tragic consequences of his pursuit.
• Social Barriers: The novel highlights the inherent social barriers that prevent Gatsby from fully achieving his dream.
• Critique of Materialism: The novel implicitly criticizes the excessive materialism and superficiality that often overshadow genuine values and human connections.

Conclusion: Understanding The Great Gatsby Through its Real-Life Connections

Understanding the real-life influences behind The Great Gatsby—the excesses of the Roaring Twenties, the specific individuals who inspired its characters, and the symbolic representation of Long Island's social landscape—enriches the reading experience immensely. These connections provide a deeper understanding of the novel's complex themes, from the allure and disillusionment of the American Dream to the corrosive effects of wealth and social inequality. By recognizing these real-life inspirations, we gain a profound appreciation for the timeless relevance of Fitzgerald's masterpiece. Delve deeper into the real-life influences of The Great Gatsby and uncover the hidden layers of this timeless classic!