The Great Gatsby: Tom Buchanan and Old Money Quotes
The Great Gatsby Tom Buchanan old money quotes serve as a window into the character's worldview, societal standing, and the themes of wealth, privilege, and morality that permeate F. Scott Fitzgerald's classic novel. Tom Buchanan epitomizes the old money aristocracy of East Egg, and his words often reflect the values, prejudices, and arrogance associated with inherited wealth. Exploring these quotes offers insight into his character and the broader social commentary Fitzgerald weaves throughout the narrative.
Understanding Tom Buchanan's Character and Background
Old Money vs. New Money
In the world of The Great Gatsby, the distinction between old money and new money is crucial. Old money families, like the Buchanans, have inherited their wealth for generations, often perceiving themselves as superior to the nouveau riche who have recently acquired wealth. Tom Buchanan is the embodiment of this old aristocracy, and his language and attitudes reflect this status.
Tom Buchanan's Societal Position
As a member of East Egg's elite, Tom's words are often laced with condescension and a sense of entitlement. His quotes reveal not only his personal beliefs but also the societal norms of the upper class during the Jazz Age.
Notable Old Money Quotes from Tom Buchanan
Quotes Reflecting Wealth and Privilege
- "I've got a nice place here." — This simple statement underscores Tom's pride in his estate, symbolizing his wealth and status.
- "I suppose the latest thing is to sit back and let Mr. Nobody from Nowhere make love to your wife." — Here, Tom dismisses Gatsby's lower-class origins, emphasizing the importance of old money pedigree.
- "The idea is if we don't look out the white race will be—utterly submerged." — Demonstrating his racist attitudes, this quote also underscores the racial and social superiority he perceives as inherent to old money families.
Quotes Demonstrating Class and Social Attitudes
- "You see, I think everything's terrible anyhow... Everybody thinks so—the most advanced people. And I know. I've been everywhere and seen everything and done everything." — This reflects the ennui and moral decay perceived among the privileged class.
- "Civilization's going to pieces," — Tom laments the decline of morals, tying it to the changing social order that threatens the old money elite's dominance.
- "I'm all for the peace and quiet. It's only the foolishness of men that makes noise." — His disdain for chaos and disorder reveals his preference for the stability of old money society.
Analyzing the Significance of These Quotes
Reinforcing Social Hierarchies
Many of Tom's quotes serve to reinforce the rigid class distinctions of the time. His dismissive attitude toward Gatsby and others of lower social standing emphasizes the exclusivity of the old money class and their perceived moral superiority.
Expressing Racist and Xenophobic Attitudes
Tom's statements about race and social purity reveal the prejudices inherent in old money aristocracy. These quotes highlight the supremacist views that were often justified by a sense of inherited superiority.
Depicting Moral Decay and Decadence
His remarks about civilization and morality suggest a worldview that equates wealth with virtue, and the decline of traditional values with societal decay — themes central to Fitzgerald's critique of the Jazz Age society.
Contextualizing Tom Buchanan's Quotes within the Novel
His Interactions with Other Characters
Tom's quotes often serve as a reflection of his attitudes during interactions with Daisy, Gatsby, and others. For instance, his dismissive comments about Gatsby reveal his disdain for those who challenge his social dominance.
Reflecting the Themes of the Novel
Fitzgerald uses Tom's words to critique the American Dream, illustrating how inherited wealth and old money privilege perpetuate social inequality and moral corruption.
Impact and Legacy of Tom Buchanan's Old Money Quotes
Literary Significance
These quotes have become emblematic of the elitist attitudes and social stratification depicted in The Great Gatsby. They serve as critical commentary on the American upper class during the 1920s.
Relevance in Modern Discourse
Today, Tom Buchanan's quotes continue to resonate as symbols of elitism, privilege, and the dangers of inherited social status. They provoke discussions on class divides, racism, and societal values.
Conclusion
In summary, the The Great Gatsby Tom Buchanan old money quotes encapsulate the character's worldview, emphasizing themes of privilege, moral decay, and social hierarchy. They provide valuable insight into the mindset of the American aristocracy during the Jazz Age and remain powerful symbols of elitism and societal critique. By analyzing these quotes, readers gain a deeper understanding of Tom Buchanan's role within the narrative and the broader commentary Fitzgerald offers on American society.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Tom Buchanan's quote about 'old money' reveal about his attitude towards wealth?
Tom's quotes often emphasize his pride in his aristocratic heritage, reflecting his belief that old money confers superiority and entitlement over new wealth.
How does Tom Buchanan describe the importance of heritage and class in 'The Great Gatsby'?
Tom frequently references 'old money' as a symbol of true status, suggesting that heritage and class are inherited privileges that define one's social position.
Which quote from Tom Buchanan highlights his disdain for those without old money status?
A notable quote is, "I suppose the latest thing is to sit back and let Mr. Nobody from Nowhere make love to your wife," indicating his contempt for those lacking old money pedigree.
How does Tom use quotes about 'old money' to assert dominance in the novel?
Tom's references to old money serve to reinforce his social authority, positioning himself as part of the elite and dismissing others as inferior or socially illegitimate.
Can you provide a quote from Tom Buchanan that directly mentions 'old money'?
While Tom doesn't explicitly say 'old money' in a quote, he often implies it through statements like, "I've got a nice place here," or "I've been here since 1885," emphasizing his long-standing aristocratic background.
What does Tom Buchanan's attitude towards new money versus old money reveal about his character?
Tom's disdain for new money and reverence for old money highlight his conservative views on social hierarchy and his desire to maintain the status quo of inherited wealth.
How does the novel portray the tension between old money and new money through Tom Buchanan's quotes?
Tom's quotes often exemplify the snobbery and prejudice of old money, contrasting with Gatsby's nouveau riche background, thus illustrating the social divide.
Is there a quote where Tom Buchanan explicitly criticizes the values associated with new money?
While not directly criticizing new money, Tom's comments like "The idea is if we don't look out the white race will be—will be utterly submerged" reveal his fears about social change and the erosion of old money dominance.
How do Tom Buchanan's quotes about 'old money' contribute to the novel's themes of class and privilege?
His quotes reinforce the theme that wealth inherited through generations grants not just economic power but also social superiority, which is central to the novel's critique of American aristocracy.
