The Great Gatsby: a Classic under Fire

With its universal themes and captivating characters, F. Scott Fitzgerald’s "The Great Gatsby" remains a literary triumph beloved by readers worldwide. With over thirty million copies sold, it stands as the second most read book in schools and continues to sell almost half a million copies annually. Translated into forty-two different languages, the novel has earned its place among the greatest English-language novels of the 20th century, as recognized by the Modern Library. Despite its acclaim, "The Great Gatsby" frequently appears on the American Library Association’s list of banned and challenged classics (Baldassarro).

The process of challenging or banning a book is complex, requiring substantial reasons and approval from school boards, which deters many from pursuing it.

The American Dream and Wealth Accumulation

Published in 1925, "The Great Gatsby" is set in the opulent 1920s in the fictional West Egg and East Egg. The story is narrated by Nick Carraway, who moves next to the lavish mansion of Jay Gatsby, a mysterious millionaire. Across the lake resides Tom Buchanan, an affluent man of old money, and his wife Daisy, who is Gatsby’s long-lost love. The narrative unfolds as Gatsby attempts to win back Daisy, throwing extravagant parties to attract her attention. The novel explores themes of wealth, love, and the American Dream. It delves into the moral decay beneath the glitz and glamor of the era, painting a portrait of ambition and tragedy.

The reasons for challenging "The Great Gatsby" often include its depiction of sex, violence, and language. The Bay County School District in Florida once attempted to ban 64 books, including Fitzgerald’s classic, citing vulgarity as a concern (Lombardi). However, the ban was only partially successful, as the book remained available. Critics argue that teenagers are exposed to similar language and themes in their daily lives, and literature provides a valuable lens through which to understand historical contexts. The novel’s portrayal of the American Dream, with Gatsby rising from humble beginnings to immense wealth, resonates as a reflection of societal aspirations and the inherent pitfalls of such dreams.

Changing Gender Roles and Social Dynamics

In 2008, the Coeur d’Alene school board in Idaho considered removing "The Great Gatsby" from its curriculum, citing inappropriate language and scenes (Lombardi). However, the book was ultimately retained, though it was removed from some reading lists. The novel provides a window into the shifting gender roles and social dynamics of the 1920s. Characters like Daisy and Tom reflect the complexities of relationships during a time of changing attitudes towards gender and power. The narrative challenges readers to consider the societal norms and expectations of the past, offering insights into the evolution of social constructs.

Critics often highlight the novel’s racial slurs and depiction of excessive partying as grounds for concern. Yet, these elements are integral to understanding the characters and the era they inhabit. Tom Buchanan’s racism and Gatsby’s bootlegging are pivotal to the story, illustrating the moral ambiguities of the time. The novel’s historical context is crucial for readers to grasp the societal issues of the 1920s, making it a valuable educational tool despite its controversial elements.

The Illusion of the American Dream

The transition from high school to college brings different perspectives on literature. While parents may challenge books in high school settings, college students often engage with texts more independently. "The Great Gatsby" offers a profound critique of the American Dream, portraying Gatsby’s rise from poverty to wealth as both admirable and ultimately tragic. The novel’s depiction of the 1920s as an era of excess and moral decay provides a cautionary tale about the pursuit of wealth and status.

As James L. W. West III notes, "The Great Gatsby" is "our novel, how we present ourselves." The 1920s, with its flappers, jazz, and prohibition, shaped the cultural landscape, and Fitzgerald’s work captures this transformative period (Donahue). By exploring themes of love, ambition, and disillusionment, the novel remains relevant today, offering timeless insights into human nature and society.

Conclusion

"The Great Gatsby" is a compelling and educational novel that continues to engage readers across generations. Its frequent challenges highlight the ongoing debate over the role of controversial content in literature. Rather than banning the book, educators and parents should encourage open discussions about its themes and historical context. By doing so, students can develop critical thinking skills and a deeper understanding of the past. With its enduring relevance and literary merit, "The Great Gatsby" deserves to be read and appreciated, offering valuable lessons about the complexities of the human experience.

References:

• “So We Read On: How The Great Gatsby Came to Be and Why It Endures” by Maureen Corrigan
• “The Gatsby Affair: Scott, Zelda, and the Betrayal that Shaped an American Classic” by Kendall Taylor
• “Trimalchio: An Early Version of The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald
• “The Great Gatsby: A Reader’s Guide to the F. Scott Fitzgerald Novel” by Robert Crayola
• “Gatsby’s Oxford: Scott, Zelda, and the Jazz Age Invasion of Britain 1904-1929” by Christopher A. Snyder

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