Table of ContentsBodyWealth GapMaterialismDecline of Moral ValuesConclusionThe Great Gatsby is a timeless classic that explores the social issues of 1920s America. The novel is set in the Roaring Twenties, a time of great economic prosperity and social change, but also a time of profound social inequality and moral decline. Through the characters and their interactions, Fitzgerald highlights various social issues such as the wealth gap, materialism, and the decline of moral values. This essay will look at these social issues and their representation in The Great Gatsby, using evidence and statistics to support the arguments. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay BodyWealth Gap One of the major social issues addressed in The Great Gatsby is the wealth gap. The novel depicts the stark contrast between the "old money" and the "new money" in American society. The characters of Tom and Daisy Buchanan represent old money, coming from wealthy, established families, while Jay Gatsby and Myrtle Wilson represent new money, having acquired their wealth through hard work or illegal means. This divide is evident in the lavish parties thrown by Gatsby, where old money and new money collide, showcasing the extravagant lifestyle of the rich. According to a study by the Economic Policy Institute, the wealth gap in the 1920s was at its peak, with the richest 0.1 percent of the population owning as much wealth as the bottom 90 percent. The Great Gatsby reflects this wealth gap through its characters, highlighting the disparity between the rich and the poor. Materialism Another social problem depicted in The Great Gatsby is the rampant materialism of the time. The novel's characters are consumed by their desire for material possessions and wealth, often at the expense of their relationships and moral values. Gatsby, in particular, is driven by his obsession with material success, as he believes that wealth and luxury earn him Daisy's love. This materialistic mindset is also reflected in the real world, with the 1920s being a time of consumption and excess. According to a report from the University of Pennsylvania, the 1920s saw a significant increase in consumer spending and the purchase of luxury goods, indicating the prevalence of materialism in society. The Great Gatsby depicts this social problem through the characters' relentless quest for material wealth, ultimately leading to their downfall. Decline of Moral Values ​​The Great Gatsby also addresses the decline of moral values ​​in American society during the 1920s. The characters in the novel are morally bankrupt, engaging in extramarital affairs, deception, and manipulation. Tom Buchanan, for example, is unfaithful to his wife Daisy and displays blatant racism towards others. Similarly, Gatsby's quest for wealth and status leads him to engage in illegal activities and deception. This decline in moral values ​​is a reflection of the societal norms of the time, with the 1920s seeing a shift towards a more liberal and hedonistic culture. According to a University of Chicago study, the 1920s marked a period of moral relativism, as traditional values ​​were challenged and replaced with a more permissive attitude. The Great Gatsby depicts this societal change through its characters, illustrating the erosion of moral values ​​during the era. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get an article now.