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Essay / Compare and Contrast: Tom and Daisy Buchanan in The Great Gatsby
Table of ContentsSimilarity 1: Privileged ContextSimilarity 2: Materialism and SuperficialitySimilarity 3: Lack of ResponsibilityConclusionBibliographyThroughout F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel The Great Gatsby, the characters played by Tom and Daisy Buchanan an important role in the development of the story. Although they may initially seem opposites, a closer look reveals that Tom and Daisy share several similarities that contribute to their complex and flawed characters. This essay will compare Tom and Daisy, highlighting their common traits and the implications of these similarities. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay Similarity 1: Privileged Background One of the main similarities between Tom and Daisy is their privileged backgrounds. Both characters come from wealthy families, which shapes their outlook on life and influences their actions. Tom, as a wealthy aristocrat, represents the established upper class, while Daisy, born into a socially prominent family, enjoys the benefits of her high status. Their shared upbringing fosters a sense of entitlement, leading to their carefree and reckless behaviors throughout the novel. For example, Tom and Daisy demonstrate a lack of concern about the consequences of their actions. They engage in extramarital affairs without regard for the emotional pain they are inflicting on their partner, thereby demonstrating a complete disregard for the feelings of others. This common trait highlights their shared sense of entitlement and their belief that they are above the rules that govern ordinary people. Similarity 2: materialism and superficiality. Another significant similarity between Tom and Daisy is their strong attachment to material possessions and their superficial lifestyle. Both characters prioritize wealth, luxury, and appearances over true human relationships and moral values. This materialistic mindset is evident in their extravagant lifestyles, their obsession with social status, and their desire to surround themselves with opulence. Tom and Daisy's materialism and superficiality contribute to their unhappiness and dissatisfaction. Despite their wealth and privilege, they constantly seek more, never finding true contentment. Their common quest for material goods becomes a symbol of their emptiness and the lack of true fulfillment in their lives. Similarity 3: Lack of Responsibility A final similarity between Tom and Daisy is their constant avoidance of responsibility for their actions. Both characters systematically avoid their responsibilities and fail to face the consequences of their choices. Tom, for example, repeatedly engages in affairs and displays abusive behavior toward his wife, but he is never held accountable for his actions. Daisy, on the other hand, chooses to remain passive and allows others to make decisions for her, thereby avoiding responsibility for her own happiness. This common trait of evading responsibility highlights the moral weakness of the characters and their inability to face the truth. Tom and Daisy's refusal to take responsibility for their actions ultimately leads to tragic results for those around them, highlighting the destructive consequences of their shared flaw. Conclusion In conclusion, although Tom and Daisy Buchanan may seem like very different characters, a closer look reveals several significant similarities. Their privileged origins, their materialism and their superficiality, as well as their constant avoidance of any responsibility, contribute to, 1925.