Question

Taking all of the information you have gathered from various sources about Gatsby's personal life, what do you think Fitzgerald is trying to illustrate to the readers about those who try to be part of a social class different from the one in which they were born?

a. The pursuit of social mobility often leads to happiness and success.
b. People who strive for a higher social class are often dissatisfied with their lives.
c. Gatsby's story serves as a cautionary tale about the American Dream.
d. Fitzgerald promotes the idea that social class is not significant in one's life.

Answer 1

Fitzgerald portrays Gatsby's pursuit of social mobility and the American Dream as a cautionary tale, highlighting the dangers and ultimate tragedy accompanying such endeavors.

Step-by-step explanation:

Taking into consideration the various sources about Gatsby's personal life, F. Scott Fitzgerald seems to be illustrating that Gatsby's story serves as a cautionary tale about the American Dream. Although Gatsby's wealth and determination place him among the elite, his story underlines the disillusionment and ultimate tragedy encountered when chasing an idealized social status. His relentless pursuit of Daisy and assimilation into high society are underscored by his inability to truly become a part of the old-money class. In essence, Fitzgerald conveys the futility and inherent risks involved in attempting to change one's social standing through artificial means, such as accumulating wealth.