The Great Gatsby

Many believe the “American Dream” solely relies on the presence of happiness and wealth. The film adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel The Great Gatsby exhibits this pretrial at best. From the very beginning of the movie, the audience views the setting within Long Island, New York. The book/ film take place during the 1920’s, at this time the location symbolized a dream site to live at or even retreat too.

Another aspect of the film that portrays the “American Dream” comes from the occupations and wealth of the characters. Gatsby openly admits to coming from a long line of wealthy inheritance. Nick on the other hand had to work for everything he acquired. He earned a college education and worked hard as a bond salesman. Shown in the video, one can tell Nick is a firm believer in hard and honest work. During one particular scene, Gatsby begins to influence Nick to work with him on a project. Nick interjects by questioning Gatsby’s true position offer. Here, it seems Nick’s character believes that only hard work can earn happiness and success- opposed to inherited wealth.

The personal/ love lives of the characters also play a key part in the common meaning of the “American Dream”. From the outside looking in and without knowing a detailed bio of each character, the audience sees a perfect couple in the Buchanan’s. However, the story demonstrates a connection between wealth and love. The couple is obviously unhappy, as represented by their affairs. Yet, they remain together to portray an image of an all American picture perfect couple.