What are some of the assumptions held by different characters in The Great Gatsby, and to what degree do these change in the course of the novel?.
There are various assumptions held by different characters in the novel The Great Gatsby. The definition of change is to alter, to adapt to transform or to become different. The catalyst in the novel is Gatsby's outward change of personality, peoples views of Gatsby. Various types of changes explored in the text include environmental changes, social changes, physical changes, intellectual changes, relationship changes and attitudinal changes. The Great Gatsby is written from Nick's perspective. It uses emotive and sophisticated language, which enhances the style. Issues raised in the novel to be discussed are Gatsby's assumptions about the need of material wealth in society in order to be happy; Daisy's assumptions of Tom having an affair with another woman; and Tom's and the people who attended Gatsby's parties, assumptions of Gatsby, as to his wealth.
Jay Gatsby assumes that in order to have happiness in life, which is to be with the woman he loves, he needs to have professional accomplishments and material wealth. Gatsby's lifestyle and pursuits reveal these assumptions about wealth in his society. "Rich girls don't marry poor boys," says Daisy. Everything Gatsby has done in his life is to prove that he is worthy of Daisy. His participation in a bootlegging operation allows him to acquire the wealth and social status needed to attract her. Gatsby doesn't care for the materialism that all his followers embrace. This can be seen through his bedroom, the only room he really uses, which is empty compared to the rest of the house. The place where he actually spends most of his time has little resemblance to the rest of the house, where the guests spend most of their time. Gatsby flaunts all these material possessions only as a means of winning over Daisy, his true love.