Chapter 1 Summary-
Nick Carraway graduated New Haven in 1915, participated in the Great War, and wrote for Yale News. He then moved to New York and lived at the West Egg. His cousin, Daisy, and her husband, Tom Buchanans, live on the East Egg of New York, and he decided to pay them a visit. There, he met Jordan Baker, who Nick seems to have an attraction to. After his visit, he goes back home where he sees Mr. Gatsby for the first time.
Tom Buchanans
b. 'Now don'e think my opinion on these matters is final,' he seemed to say, 'just because I'm stronger and more of a man than you are.' (Fitzgerald 5)
This quote shows that Tom is a person that likes to assert his dominance. He is the type that would love to take the role of "alpha male."
c. Tom is a strong man who used to play football in New Havens. his strength only compliments his unpleasantly cocky attitude. He is a conceited person who is not afraid to flaunt his wealth and control his wife. Tom shows his true colors when the story reveals that he is cheating on Daisy. He also is unafraid to share his racist views with Nick. He supports white dominance explaining that "It's up to us, who are the dominant race, to watch out or these other races will have control of things. (Fitzgerald 13)"
d. Tom plays a character that contrasts from Nick Carraway. Nick is a smart individual while Tom exceeds in strength. Tom's role in this story is to conflict with Nick's views and ideals. Nick seems to reject Tom and his views, but Tom is viewed as "more of a man" than Nick is. So Tom also plays a male role model for Nick. Tom also displays the view of white America at that time period. Races were still not accepted, and Tom clearly displays that type of attitude towards them.
'Whenever you feel like criticizing any one,' he told m, 'just remember that all the people in this world haven't had the advantages that you've had. (Fitzgerald 1)
This early quote will probably play a key role in the ideals of Nick Carraway throughout the book. This quote reminds people that there are others who are less fortunate. It is a single reminder that people must utilize each advantage that he or she is given in order to obtain happiness. This quote is important to Nick because it is a quote from his father that has stuck in his head for many years.
