The Great Gatsby (e.g. Jun. 2014) | Page 9

Examining the upper class, the reader can see a fine distinction between an old and a new aristocracy. Families like Tom’s and Jordan’s have held wealth for generations while Gatsby’s wealth is of sudden fortune. Possibly, this is the reason why Tom has such curiosity in Gatsby’s personal life as the true upper class doesn’t appreciate newcomers. Looking further into this, the entire story presents a theme of climbing the social ladder in any way possible. Gatsby’s love for Daisy may simply have been just a way to finally make it into the real upper class. He was willing to fake his fortune to make a name for himself, so it is logical to think that there may be more than love on his mind. Even so, his deceptive behavior demonstrates the corruption of people in all social classes.

Throughout the novel, the reader can observe multiple examples of immoral human greed and selfishness. The hundreds of guests, who previously attended Gatsby’s lavish parties, deserted him at his funeral. Many people in the twenties, regardless of their class, wanted to be part of the ostentatious celebrity life. Friendship went only as far as the money did. Everyone wanted to give the illusion that they were part of the upper class, but all of the guests faking their wealth at Gatsby’s parties were already being deceived themselves. Fitzgerald demonstrated the need for attention and power people have within. There were no real members of the upper class at Gatsby’s parties, not even the host.

The 1920’s was a time of true prosperity, but it was also a time of endless lying.