When you delve into F. Scott Fitzgerald's masterpiece, The Great Gatsby, it becomes apparent that the novel is full of symbolic meanings. One such symbol that is constantly mentioned throughout the text is the color gold. The presence of gold in various forms has great significance within the narrative, as it represents wealth, materialism, and the American dream. By exploring the symbolism of gold in The Great Gatsby, one can gain a deeper understanding of the novel and its commentary on the society of the Roaring Twenties. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Gold, in its literal sense, is often associated with wealth and luxury, and this notion is reflected in the characters of The Great Gatsby. Jay Gatsby, the enigmatic protagonist, is described as having a "golden tie" and living in a "golden house". The golden color of his possessions highlights his opulence and the extravagance of his lifestyle. Likewise, the Buchanan residence is characterized by its "gleaming white" appearance and "golden porch", reflecting the wealth and materialism of Tom and Daisy Buchanan. These golden elements serve as a reminder of the superficiality and excesses of the upper class during this era. However, the symbolism of gold in The Great Gatsby extends beyond simple wealth. It also represents the pursuit of the American dream, a concept deeply rooted in the novel. The characters in the story all struggle to realize various versions of this dream, whether it be Gatsby's pursuit of Daisy, Tom's desire for domination and control, or Myrtle's desire for higher social status. The color gold, with its association with success and prosperity, becomes a visual representation of this elusive dream. He is the embodiment of the hopes and aspirations that drive these characters, ultimately leading to their downfall. The symbolism of gold in The Great Gatsby goes beyond its materialistic and dreamlike connotations. It also serves as a commentary on the corrupting influence of wealth and the emptiness of the American dream. Throughout the novel, gold is often depicted as something unattainable or ultimately unsatisfying. Gatsby's accumulation of wealth and luxury brings him no true happiness or fulfillment, as he is haunted by the past and unable to achieve his desired romantic relationship with Daisy. Furthermore, the pursuit of gold and material wealth leads to moral degradation and erosion of life. values. The characters in The Great Gatsby are willing to sacrifice their principles and engage in deception and betrayal to maintain or acquire wealth. This is evident in Gatsby's involvement in illegal activities, Tom's extramarital affair, and Daisy's superficiality. The gilded facade of wealth and success masks the moral decay that lies beneath. In conclusion, the symbolism of gold in The Great Gatsby is multifaceted and has significant meaning within the narrative. It represents not only wealth and materialism, but also the pursuit of the American dream and the corruption that accompanies it. The color gold serves as a visual reminder of the excesses and superficialities of the upper class during the Roaring Twenties, as well as a commentary on the emptiness and moral degradation that can result from the relentless pursuit of wealth. By examining the symbolism of gold in this novel, you gain a deeper understanding of the characters, the society they live in, and the overall themes of the American dream and its consequences. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper now from our expert writers. Get, 2004.