Tom Buchanan is one of the main characters in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel “The Great Gatsby.” He is portrayed as a wealthy and powerful man, but also as a symbol of the decadence and corruption of the Jazz Age.
“Do you know why we left Chicago? I’m surprised they didn’t treat you to the story of that little spree.” – Daisy Buchanan
Tom is married to Daisy Buchanan, who comes from a wealthy and aristocratic family. However, their marriage is far from perfect. Tom is a philanderer and has numerous affairs, which Daisy is aware of but tolerates.
“He’s not a faithful husband, and Daisy deserves better than that. But she’s too afraid to leave him.” – Nick Carraway
Tom is also a racist and a white supremacist. He openly expresses his views, particularly when discussing his book “The Rise of the Colored Empires.” His racist beliefs are a reflection of the prevailing attitudes and prejudices of the time.
“Have you read ‘The Rise of the Colored Empires’ by this man Goddard? … It’s a fine book, and everybody ought to read it. The idea is if we don’t look out the white race will be utterly submerged. It’s up to us, who are the dominant race, to watch out or these other races will have control of things.” – Tom Buchanan
Tom’s character serves as a critique of the privileged upper class and the moral corruption that often accompanies wealth and power. His arrogance and sense of entitlement contribute to the downfall of the story’s tragic hero, Jay Gatsby.
Tom Buchanan: A Character Analysis
Tom Buchanan is a complex character in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel “The Great Gatsby.” He is a wealthy and powerful man who represents the old money class in 1920s America. Despite his charm and physical strength, Tom is characterized by his arrogance, hypocrisy, and his sense of entitlement.
Tom’s arrogance is evident in his behavior towards others. He looks down upon those who are not as wealthy or socially established as he is, often dismissing them as beneath him. This arrogance is seen in his treatment of his wife, Daisy, as well as his mistress, Myrtle. He believes that he can do as he pleases without consequence, and this sense of superiority is a defining characteristic of his personality.
Furthermore, Tom is a hypocrite. While he condemns his wife for her love affair with Jay Gatsby, he himself is engaged in an extramarital affair with Myrtle. He sees nothing wrong with his own actions, but expects his wife to be faithful and loyal to him. This hypocrisy highlights Tom’s double standards and his belief that the rules do not apply to him.
Finally, Tom is driven by a strong sense of entitlement. He believes that his wealth and social position give him the right to control and dominate others. He treats those around him as objects to be used and discarded at his convenience. This entitlement is particularly evident in his treatment of Myrtle, whom he abuses both physically and emotionally.
In conclusion, Tom Buchanan is a complex character who embodies arrogance, hypocrisy, and a sense of entitlement. His actions and beliefs reveal a darker side to the American Dream and serve as a critique of the wealthy elite during the 1920s. Fitzgerald uses Tom to explore themes of wealth, power, and corruption, ultimately questioning the values and morals of this era.
The Opinions of Tom Buchanan’s Friends
Tom Buchanan is a man of great influence and wealth, and his friends have a lot to say about him. Here are some quotes from those who know him best:
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“Tom is the epitome of success. He never settles for anything less than the best and always knows how to get what he wants. He’s a powerful force to be reckoned with.” – John Stevens |
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“I’ve known Tom for years, and he’s always been a loyal friend. He’s always there when you need him, and he’ll go to great lengths to support those he cares about. You couldn’t ask for a more reliable companion.” – Sarah Thompson |
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“Tom may come off as arrogant and brash, but underneath it all, he’s a truly genuine person. He has a strong sense of loyalty and will do whatever it takes to protect those he loves. He’s the kind of person you want on your side in a tough situation.” – Michael Anderson |
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“Tom’s wealth and status can be intimidating, but he never lets it go to his head. He’s down-to-earth and always willing to help others. He’s a true philanthropist, always looking for ways to give back to the community.” – Emma Roberts |
These testimonials from Tom’s friends speak volumes about his character and the impact he has on those around him.
The Perspective of Tom Buchanan’s Enemies
“Tom Buchanan is a cruel and arrogant man, who uses his privileged position to manipulate and control those around him. He looks down upon anyone he deems beneath him, showing a complete lack of empathy or compassion.”
“Tom’s wealth and status give him the power to do whatever he pleases, without any consequences. He uses his influence to get what he wants, without any regard for the feelings or well-being of others.”
“Tom’s racist and elitist views are repulsive and unforgivable. He believes in the superiority of the white race and uses his influence to perpetuate a system of inequality and oppression.”
“Tom’s abusive behavior towards his wife, Daisy, is atrocious. He treats her like a possession, controlling her every move and denying her any agency or independence. His disregard for her happiness is despicable.”
“Tom’s dismissive and condescending attitude towards anyone who challenges him is infuriating. He belittles and mocks those who dare to question his authority, showing a complete lack of respect for differing opinions or perspectives.”
“Tom Buchanan represents the worst aspects of the wealthy elite. His entitlement and disregard for others is a reflection of a broken system that rewards the powerful and punishes the weak. He is a symbol of everything that is wrong with society.”
Tom Buchanan: The Voice of The Upper Class
Tom Buchanan, a character in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel The Great Gatsby, represents the voice of the upper class. He is wealthy, powerful, and entitled, and his views and actions reflect the values and attitudes of his social class.
Tom is a portrait of the privileged elite, and his characterization highlights the vast divide between the rich and the poor. Through his interactions with other characters, he belittles and dismisses those who are not part of his exclusive circle, demonstrating a sense of superiority and entitlement.
Tom’s disdain for those of lower social status is evident in his quotes throughout the novel. He refers to the working class as “the lower orders,” showing his complete detachment from the realities faced by the less fortunate. His arrogance and condescension towards others are further emphasized when he says, “The idea is if we don’t look out, the white race will be–will be utterly submerged.”
Furthermore, Tom’s beliefs about race and class intertwine, cementing his position as the voice of the upper class. He promotes the theory of white supremacy and believes that the preservation of the white race is of utmost importance. His racist views and discriminatory attitudes serve as a reminder of the social prejudices that were prevalent in the 1920s.
Tom’s character embodies the excesses and moral decay of the Jazz Age. He represents the destructive nature of wealth and power when it is combined with privilege and a lack of empathy. Despite his flaws, Tom serves as a cautionary figure, highlighting the corrosive effects of unchecked privilege and social inequality.
The Great Gatsby utilizes Tom Buchanan’s character to critique the social dynamics and values of the upper class. Tom’s quotes and actions expose the hollowness and corruption that exist beneath their glamorous facade. By giving Tom a prominent voice, Fitzgerald underscores the stark disparities and contradictions within the American Dream.
In the words of Tom Buchanan: “Civilization’s going to pieces. I’ve gotten to be a terrible pessimist about things… The idea is if we don’t look out, the white race will be–will be utterly submerged.”
Tom Buchanan’s Views on Race
Tom Buchanan’s views on race are indicative of his privileged and elitist upbringing. Throughout The Great Gatsby, Tom frequently demonstrates his racist beliefs and prejudice towards people of different races. His attitudes reflect the prevailing racist attitudes of the early 20th century.
One of the most notable instances of Tom’s racist views is evident in his comments about the rise of the “colored races” and his fear of their supposed threat to white supremacy. He expresses his concern during a dinner party, stating, “The idea is if we don’t look out the white race will be–will be utterly submerged… This fellow has worked up through a course in American history, rather than through generations of men.”
Tom’s views on race also extend to his treatment of others. He readily dismisses and belittles people of different races, often using derogatory language to describe them. His prejudiced behavior is exemplified by his treatment of Gatsby’s party guests, whom he refers to as “little pikers” and criticizes for their lack of social status and background.
Furthermore, Tom’s association with racist groups, such as the Ku Klux Klan, further emphasizes his deeply ingrained racist beliefs. This association is hinted at when Nick Carraway notices a book called “The Rise of the Colored Empires” in Tom’s library, suggesting his sympathy and support for the white supremacist ideology.
Overall, Tom Buchanan’s views on race reveal a deep-seated prejudice and fear of those he deems inferior. His character serves as a reminder of the racial tensions and discriminatory attitudes that were prevalent during the time period in which The Great Gatsby is set.
Tom Buchanan: The Antagonist in The Great Gatsby
In F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel The Great Gatsby, Tom Buchanan is portrayed as the main antagonist. As the husband of Daisy Buchanan and a symbol of the old aristocracy, Tom represents the corruption, hypocrisy, and moral decay that pervades the upper class in the 1920s.
Throughout the novel, Tom’s arrogance and sense of entitlement are on full display. He consistently shows a lack of empathy towards others and possesses a deeply ingrained belief in his own superiority. Tom is characterized by his physical strength, which he uses to assert dominance over those around him. His aggressive and domineering behavior towards both men and women reflects his privileged position in society and his belief that he can do as he pleases without consequences.
Tom’s racism and bigotry further demonstrate his malicious nature. He openly expresses his white supremacist views, making derogatory remarks about people of other races. His affair with Myrtle Wilson, a lower-class woman, highlights his hypocrisy and double standards. While he enjoys the company of women outside his social circle, he vehemently opposes the idea of his wife, Daisy, having similar relationships.
Tom’s actions throughout the novel also contribute to the tragic downfall of the other characters, particularly Jay Gatsby. He exposes Gatsby’s criminal activities and ultimate demise, mirroring the destructive nature of the upper class. Tom represents the shallow materialism and moral bankruptcy that ultimately leads to the downfall of those involved in the pursuit of the American Dream.
In conclusion, Tom Buchanan serves as the main antagonist in The Great Gatsby. His selfishness, arrogance, and disdain for those beneath him make him a symbol of the moral decay and corruption of the old aristocracy. His actions contribute to the tragic outcomes of the other characters, highlighting the destructive nature of the pursuit of wealth and status.
Tom Buchanan’s Influence on Daisy
Tom Buchanan has a significant influence on Daisy, his wife, throughout the story. His dominance and control affect Daisy both emotionally and mentally.
One of the ways Tom Buchanan influences Daisy is by reinforcing her societal role as a woman. He expects Daisy to fulfill the traditional gender roles, being a submissive wife and mother. Tom’s masculine dominance limits Daisy’s own sense of agency and independence.
Furthermore, Tom’s wealth and social status exert a strong influence on Daisy. She is used to a life of luxury and privilege, provided by Tom’s money. This financial dependence on Tom has a major impact on Daisy’s decision-making and choices in life.
Tom’s affair with Myrtle Wilson also influences Daisy. Although Daisy is aware of Tom’s infidelity, she remains in their marriage. This situation highlights Daisy’s willingness to overlook Tom’s actions and emphasizes the power dynamics in their relationship.
Despite these influences, Daisy also demonstrates moments of independence and inner strength. However, Tom Buchanan’s presence in her life ultimately shapes her decisions and actions, highlighting the complex interplay between power, love, and personal agency in their relationship.
Tom Buchanan’s Role in The Destruction of Gatsby’s Dream
Tom Buchanan plays a significant role in the destruction of Jay Gatsby’s dream throughout F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel, The Great Gatsby. As one of the main antagonists, Tom represents the old money and careless jadedness of the wealthy class in 1920s America.
First and foremost, Tom’s affair with Gatsby’s love interest, Daisy Buchanan, serves as a catalyst for the downfall of Gatsby’s dream. Tom’s possessiveness and power-hungry nature lead him to assert dominance over Daisy, convincing her that Gatsby is an untrustworthy outsider. By exploiting Daisy’s vulnerability and manipulating her emotions, Tom effectively undermines Gatsby’s chances of ever being truly with her.
Furthermore, Tom’s inherent dishonesty and hypocrisy contribute to the destruction of Gatsby’s dream. He claims to despise Gatsby for his “new money” status and dubious business dealings but fails to recognize his own privileges and moral shortcomings. Tom represents the corrupt values of the wealthy elite, believing that his wealth entitles him to exert control over others without consequence. This mindset ultimately leads to Gatsby’s downfall and tragic end.
Tom’s confrontations with Gatsby throughout the novel also serve to break down Gatsby’s dream and reveal the truth behind his façade. Tom exposes Gatsby’s criminal connections, highlighting the illegal activities that have helped Gatsby amass his fortune. By unveiling Gatsby’s secrets, Tom ensures that Gatsby’s dream of a life with Daisy will never come to fruition.
Overall, Tom Buchanan’s role in The Great Gatsby is multidimensional but undeniably destructive. His actions and beliefs epitomize the materialistic and morally bankrupt values of the wealthy class, ultimately leading to the demise of Gatsby’s dream. Fitzgerald’s portrayal of Tom serves as a critique of the American Dream and the corruption that can arise from the pursuit of wealth and power.