Final answer:
Jay Gatsby is deceptive as he hides his criminal past, conceals his true emotions with extravagant parties, and lies about his wealth, all in pursuit of the American Dream and to impress Daisy Buchanan.
Step-by-step explanation:
Jay Gatsby, in F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby, is a deceptive character for several reasons. First, Gatsby hides his criminal past and fabricates his history to present himself as an aristocrat. This is part of his attempt to win Daisy Buchanan, the love of his life who represents the life of old money and social status he aspires to. Second, Gatsby is known for his lavish parties and opulent lifestyle, which serve as a facade for his true emotions and the loneliness he feels. This extravagance distracts from his lesser origins and his ongoing attempts to transcend them. Lastly, Gatsby's wealth and success are largely a result of illegal activities, which he disguises to maintain his image of being a self-made, successful businessman. Ultimately, Gatsby's deceptions are deeply tied to his pursuit of the American Dream, which in his case, requires a reinvention of his identity.