The Great Gatsby: Redefining Women’s Strength Beyond 1920s Archetypes

Feminism isn’t about making women stronger. Women are already strong. It’s about changing the way the world perceives that strength (G.D Anderson). Traditionally, women have been thought of as housewives; individuals who take care of the children, maintain the household, and ensure that a hot-cooked meal awaits their husbands after work. However, literature often reflects and challenges societal norms, as seen in F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby," where three distinct types of women are presented: the golden girl, the gold digger, and the independent woman.

These roles, embodied by Daisy Buchanan, Myrtle Wilson, and Jordan Baker, respectively, not only drive the narrative but also offer a critique of gender roles and expectations of the 1920s. Through these characters, Fitzgerald explores the complex interplay between gender, power, and societal perception, highlighting the need to redefine and recognize women's strength beyond traditional confines.

First, Daisy Buchanan exemplifies the "golden girl" archetype. She is portrayed as a damsel in distress and an object of desire for men. Daisy's decision to marry Tom Buchanan, a wealthy and influential man, rather than waiting for Gatsby, underscores her submission to societal expectations of financial security over romantic fulfillment. Her character reflects the societal belief that a woman's worth is tied to her beauty and her husband's wealth. Daisy's flapper tendencies, characterized by her carelessness and irresponsibility, further illustrate her internalization of these values. Her conversation with Nick about her daughter reveals her disillusionment with the female role, as she wishes for her daughter to be "a beautiful little fool" (Fitzgerald 17). This statement encapsulates Daisy's perception of women's roles in society: to be aesthetically pleasing and oblivious to the harsh realities of their limited roles. To Gatsby, Daisy represents the corruption of the American Dream, as her allure is intertwined with wealth and status. Nick's observation of Daisy's voice as being "full of money" (Fitzgerald 120) highlights how her charm and influence are rooted in materialism rather than genuine strength or character. Daisy's role in the novel critiques the societal constraints that prioritize appearance and wealth over personal fulfillment and agency.

In stark contrast, Jordan Baker embodies the independent woman, challenging traditional gender norms. Unlike Daisy and Myrtle, Jordan does not rely on a man for her identity or social standing. As a professional golfer, she represents a new breed of women who pursue careers and personal interests independent of male influence. Her self-sufficiency is both intriguing and intimidating to Nick, who notes her avoidance of "clever, shrewd men" (Fitzgerald 57-58), suggesting her preference for maintaining control in her relationships. Jordan's independence, however, is not without flaws. Her dishonesty and manipulative tendencies reflect the societal pressures faced by women to maintain their autonomy in a male-dominated world. Despite these shortcomings, Jordan's character serves as a critique of the limited roles available to women and the need for greater recognition of their capabilities and independence.

Myrtle Wilson, on the other hand, personifies the "gold digger" stereotype. Her affair with Tom Buchanan is driven by a desire for material gain and escape from her impoverished life. Myrtle's actions reflect the desperation of women who seek empowerment through financial means, often at the expense of their dignity and self-worth. Her belief that Tom's expensive gifts indicate love and commitment is a tragic misinterpretation of her role as a mere object of desire. Myrtle's disdain for her husband, George Wilson, further illustrates her rejection of traditional domestic life in favor of a more glamorous existence. Her tragic end serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers of equating wealth with happiness and the limited avenues available for women to assert their agency in a patriarchal society.

In conclusion, "The Great Gatsby" presents a nuanced exploration of women's roles in the 1920s through the characters of Daisy Buchanan, Jordan Baker, and Myrtle Wilson. Each woman represents different facets of societal expectations and challenges the perception of women's strength. While Daisy embodies the traditional constraints of beauty and wealth, Jordan defies gender norms through her independence, and Myrtle seeks empowerment through material means. Collectively, these characters highlight the need to redefine and recognize women's strength beyond superficial and traditional confines. The novel encourages a reevaluation of societal perceptions and calls for a broader understanding of women's roles, advocating for a society where women are appreciated for their inherent strength and capabilities, independent of societal expectations or male validation. By examining these characters, Fitzgerald not only critiques the societal norms of his time but also offers timeless insights into the ongoing struggle for gender equality and the recognition of women's inherent strength.

Did you like this example?

1525

64