F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby features a cast of memorable characters, but few are as captivatingly repulsive as Tom Buchanan. His brutish arrogance is not subtly hinted at; it's a roaring, obnoxious presence that permeates the novel. Through carefully chosen words and actions, Fitzgerald paints a portrait of a man utterly consumed by his own perceived superiority. This examination delves into key Tom Buchanan quotes, analyzing them as undeniable evidence of his overwhelming arrogance.
"I'm stronger than you are."
This seemingly simple statement, uttered during a tense confrontation, reveals the core of Tom's character. It's not merely a boast of physical strength; it's a declaration of dominance that extends to every facet of his life. He believes his inherent superiority grants him the right to control others, to dictate their actions, and to disregard their feelings. This underlying belief fuels his infidelity, his casual cruelty, and his blatant disregard for societal norms. He doesn't just think he's stronger; he acts as if his strength justifies his actions, regardless of their consequences.
"I've got a nice place out in West Egg."
This seemingly innocuous remark, delivered with a tone of condescending amusement, subtly underscores Tom's class-based arrogance. His casual reference to "West Egg" — the less affluent side of Long Island — reveals his disdain for those he perceives as social inferiors. The subtle sneer implied in his delivery highlights his smug sense of superiority, a superiority based solely on inherited wealth and social standing. He doesn't simply live in West Egg; he tolerates it, viewing it as a lesser realm compared to his own privileged world.
His treatment of Myrtle Wilson
Tom's affair with Myrtle Wilson isn't just infidelity; it's a brutal display of his arrogance and entitlement. He treats Myrtle with contempt, using her as a mere object of his desire, utterly disregarding her feelings and dignity. His violence towards her—the infamous broken nose incident—is a chilling manifestation of his belief that he is above accountability for his actions. This behavior isn't impulsive; it's a consistent pattern fueled by his ingrained sense of superiority. He believes he can exploit and manipulate those he considers beneath him with impunity.
What are some examples of Tom Buchanan's arrogance in the novel?
Tom Buchanan's arrogance isn't confined to isolated incidents; it's woven into the fabric of his character. His blatant infidelity, his casual racism, his physical intimidation of those he deems weaker, and his unwavering belief in his own inherent superiority all contribute to a comprehensive picture of a man consumed by arrogance. His arrogance isn't merely a personality trait; it's the foundation upon which his entire worldview is built. He uses his wealth and social standing as tools to dominate others and enforce his will, with little regard for the consequences.
How does Tom Buchanan's arrogance affect other characters?
Tom's arrogance has a devastating impact on those around him. It causes pain and suffering for his wife, Daisy, who is trapped in a loveless marriage fueled by his controlling behavior. His affair with Myrtle Wilson leads to tragedy, and his casual cruelty leaves a trail of broken hearts and shattered lives. His behavior serves as a cautionary tale about the destructive nature of unchecked arrogance and the importance of empathy and respect in human relationships.
What is the significance of Tom Buchanan's arrogance in the novel's overall theme?
Tom Buchanan's overwhelming arrogance serves as a powerful symbol of the destructive nature of the American Dream's darker side. His wealth and social standing, rather than bringing him happiness and fulfillment, have bred in him a profound sense of entitlement and a callous disregard for the feelings and well-being of others. His character highlights the dangers of unchecked power and the corrosive effect of unchecked privilege on the human spirit. His arrogance is not simply a character flaw; it's a central element of Fitzgerald's critique of the Roaring Twenties and the moral decay at the heart of the American Dream's distorted reality.
Through careful analysis of Tom Buchanan's words and actions, we see not just a flawed character, but a potent symbol of the devastating consequences of unchecked arrogance and the insidious nature of privilege. Fitzgerald’s portrayal of Tom isn't just a character sketch; it's a social commentary, a warning against the dangers of a society where unchecked power and entitlement reign supreme.
