Power and Independence in Tom Buchanan and Daisy’s Relationship

Power plays like jazz music through "The Great Gatsby," as Tom, Daisy, and Jay orchestrate their complex dance. This essay examines how Fitzgerald employs diction to illustrate Tom Buchanan's ability to manipulate and control Daisy, ultimately forcing her to drive and underscoring Daisy's lack of independence. Through his portrayal of these characters, Fitzgerald not only sheds light on the societal norms of the 1920s but also critiques the limitations placed on women, which were deeply entrenched in the era's gender roles and class distinctions.

From the outset, Fitzgerald establishes Tom Buchanan as a domineering figure whose suspicion of Daisy and Gatsby's affair leads to a tense confrontation. Daisy's reaction to this confrontation is telling: "But with every word she was drawing further and further into herself, so he gave that up, and only the dead dream fought on as the afternoon slipped away" (Fitzgerald 134). Here, Fitzgerald's use of the phrase "dead dream" not only symbolizes Gatsby's futile hope of rekindling his romance with Daisy but also highlights Daisy's lack of agency. She retreats into herself, unable to assert any independence from Tom's oppressive influence. This moment encapsulates the broader theme of Daisy's reliance on her husband, as she is unable to extricate herself from the societal expectations that bind her.

Daisy's marriage to Tom fulfills her dream of financial security and social status, yet it comes at the cost of her independence. Tom promises her a life of comfort and stability, which she clings to, knowing that Gatsby, despite his wealth, cannot offer the same level of security. This distinction between "old money" and "new money" is crucial in understanding Daisy's choices. When Tom exposes Gatsby's dubious background, he dismisses the threat with the words, "Go on. He won’t annoy you. I think he realizes that his presumptuous little flirtation is over" (Fitzgerald 135). The condescending use of "presumptuous" allows Tom to assert dominance over Gatsby, reinforcing his control over the situation. This word choice not only belittles Gatsby but also underscores Tom's command over Daisy and the entire narrative.

Gatsby's powerlessness in the face of Tom's social superiority is palpable. Despite his wealth and his efforts to win Daisy back, Gatsby is ultimately unable to challenge the entrenched social order that Tom represents. Daisy's attachment to her social status and old money roots outweighs any romantic feelings she may have for Gatsby. Tom's confidence in his social position is evident as he predicts that Daisy would never leave him, a belief rooted in his understanding of the social dynamics at play. This confidence is not unfounded, as Daisy's identity and self-image are inextricably linked to her societal standing.

The era of the 1920s, marked by the burgeoning first-wave feminism, saw women beginning to assert their independence and challenge traditional gender roles. However, as Fitzgerald illustrates through Daisy's character, women of higher social classes often remained ensnared by the patriarchal structures that privileged male dominance and control. The societal revolution that saw women gaining more independence was, to some extent, limited by class distinctions. Despite the broader feminist movements, Daisy's situation exemplifies how social class can dictate the extent of a woman's autonomy.

In conclusion, Tom Buchanan's manipulation and control over Daisy in "The Great Gatsby" serve as a poignant commentary on the gender and class dynamics of the 1920s. Fitzgerald masterfully uses diction to convey the power imbalance between Tom and Daisy, highlighting her lack of independence and the societal constraints she faces. Through the interplay of these characters, the novel critiques the rigid social structures that limit individual agency, particularly for women. Daisy's predicament underscores the enduring struggle for autonomy in a world where wealth and status often dictate one's fate. By examining these themes, Fitzgerald's work remains a timeless reflection on the complexities of human relationships and the societal forces that shape them.

Did you like this example?

1051

55