In F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel The Great Gatsby, the complex relationships and social tensions among the characters are central to the narrative’s exploration of the American Dream, wealth, and morality. Among these tensions, Tom Buchanan’s accusations against Jay Gatsby are pivotal in shaping the novel’s climax and themes. Tom’s allegations are not merely personal grievances; they serve to reveal underlying class prejudices, fears of losing social dominance, and moral judgments about Gatsby’s background and moral character. Understanding what Tom accuses Gatsby of requires a nuanced analysis of their interactions, the social context, and the symbolic significance of these accusations within the story.
Context of Tom’s Accusations
The Social Divide and Class Prejudice
Tom Buchanan epitomizes the old-money aristocracy, representing inherited wealth, social superiority, and traditional American elitism. Gatsby, on the other hand, is a self-made man who amassed his fortune through dubious means, aspiring to join the upper class. This stark contrast fuels Tom’s suspicion and disdain. His accusations are rooted in a desire to maintain social boundaries and to discredit Gatsby’s legitimacy in the social hierarchy.
The Love Triangle and Threat to Social Stability
At the heart of the novel is the romantic tension between Daisy Buchanan, Tom’s wife, and Gatsby. Gatsby’s love for Daisy and his efforts to rekindle their past relationship threaten Tom’s marriage and, by extension, his social standing. Tom perceives Gatsby as an outsider, a social climber, and a potential disruptor of the established order. His accusations are thus also a defense mechanism to protect his marriage and societal position.
What Specifically Does Tom Accuse Gatsby Of?
Tom’s accusations against Gatsby are multifaceted, encompassing moral, social, and legal aspects. These accusations are articulated during their confrontational scenes, most notably in the climactic chapter of the novel.
1. Accusation of Criminality and Dishonesty
Tom strongly implies that Gatsby’s wealth is obtained through illegal activities. He points out Gatsby’s association with criminal figures and hints at possible bootlegging, illegal liquor trafficking, or other illicit enterprises.
- Gatsby’s mysterious background: Tom questions Gatsby’s origins, suggesting he is involved in illegal dealings to have acquired his wealth.
- Gatsby’s rumored criminal associations: Tom mentions Gatsby’s connections to Meyer Wolfsheim, a character based on a real-life gambler involved in fixing the 1919 World Series, implying Gatsby’s possible links to organized crime.
- Questioning Gatsby’s moral integrity: Tom suggests Gatsby’s morals are compromised, and his wealth is unearned or obtained through dishonest means.
2. Accusation of Social Unsuitability and Lack of Elegance
Tom criticizes Gatsby’s background and social manners, asserting that Gatsby is not genuinely part of the old-money elite.
- Born James Gatz, not a gentleman: Tom reminds everyone of Gatsby’s humble origins and self-made status, implying he lacks the breeding and refinement of the established upper class.
- Gatsby’s nouveau riche behavior: Tom points out Gatsby’s ostentatious displays of wealth and the gaudy parties at West Egg as vulgar and unbecoming of true aristocrats.
- Eccentric appearance and mannerisms: Tom criticizes Gatsby’s style and mannerisms, which differ from the refined comportment associated with the upper classes.
3. Allegations of Moral and Ethical Corruption
Throughout the confrontation, Tom suggests that Gatsby’s love for Daisy is superficial or driven by greed.
- Questioning Gatsby’s motives: Tom implies that Gatsby’s pursuit of Daisy is motivated by material desire rather than genuine love.
- Accusation of superficiality: Tom suggests Gatsby’s entire persona is a facade, built around an illusion of wealth and glamour.
- Implying a lack of moral integrity: The tone suggests Gatsby’s moral character is compromised, and his ambitions are rooted in corruption.
4. Accusation of Disloyalty and Threat to the Social Order
Tom perceives Gatsby’s love for Daisy as a threat to the established social order.
- Disruption of traditional social norms: Gatsby’s desire to ascend socially and win Daisy’s love challenges the rigid class distinctions.
- Potential for social upheaval: Tom fears that Gatsby’s association with criminal elements and his outsider status could destabilize the social fabric.
- Protection of his own status: By attacking Gatsby’s character, Tom seeks to reaffirm his own position at the top of the social hierarchy.
The Significance of Tom’s Accusations
Revealing Character and Themes
Tom’s accusations serve to contrast the old-money aristocracy with the nouveau riche and to question the morality of the American Dream.
- Old Money vs. New Money: The accusations underscore the tension between inherited wealth and self-made fortunes, a recurring theme in the novel.
- Morality and Corruption: Tom’s moral judgments reflect the novel’s critique of corruption and superficiality among the wealthy.
- Class Prejudice and Social Segregation: The accusations reveal deeply ingrained class prejudices and the fragility of social boundaries.
Impact on Plot and Character Dynamics
The accusations escalate the conflict between Tom and Gatsby, leading to pivotal events that determine the fate of the characters.
- Confrontation in the hotel: The scene in the Plaza Hotel marks the climax, where Tom’s accusations cause Daisy to waver in her feelings for Gatsby.
- Gatsby’s exposure and downfall: The revelations about Gatsby’s background contribute to the unraveling of his relationship with Daisy.
- Reinforcement of social divisions: The scene solidifies the social divide and the characters’ perceptions of morality and legitimacy.
Conclusion
Tom Buchanan’s accusations against Gatsby are multi-layered, intertwining personal animosity, social prejudice, and moral judgment. By accusing Gatsby of criminality, social unworthiness, moral corruption, and disloyalty, Tom seeks to defend his own social status and protect the established social order. These accusations serve as a critical commentary on the nature of class, morality, and the American Dream, highlighting the novel’s enduring themes of illusion, identity, and societal decay. Ultimately, Tom’s accusations are not only about individual character but also about the broader societal values that define and confine the characters’ lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific accusations does Tom make against Gatsby in 'The Great Gatsby'?
Tom accuses Gatsby of being a criminal involved in illegal activities, suggesting that his wealth is obtained through bootlegging and other illicit means.
Does Tom accuse Gatsby of having an immoral background, and how does that influence his suspicion?
Yes, Tom suggests that Gatsby's background is shady and morally questionable, which fuels his distrust and suspicion of Gatsby's character and wealth.
How does Tom's accusation about Gatsby's background impact the tension between the characters?
Tom's accusations escalate the conflict, revealing his disdain and suspicion, and ultimately leading to open confrontation and further fueling the rivalry between Gatsby and Tom.
Are there specific instances where Tom directly accuses Gatsby of a crime or dishonesty?
While Tom does not explicitly accuse Gatsby of a specific crime during the novel, he implies that Gatsby's wealth is obtained through illegitimate means, such as bootlegging, and questions his honesty and integrity.
What is Tom's main reason for accusing Gatsby, and how does this reflect his character?
Tom's main reason for accusing Gatsby is to undermine his credibility and to protect his own social status, reflecting his prejudiced, confrontational, and possessive nature.
