What Role Does Social Class In The Great Gatsby Play?

F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel The Great Gatsby offers a critical view of the upper class and how their lack of accountability is a result of their social standing. Social class creates a divide between people, leading to different perspectives and values based on upbringing. Throughout the novel, Fitzgerald shows that class is what people are defined by and there is no escaping the past. Tom and Daisy’s relationship is a prime example of this, as they stay together despite their affairs in order to maintain their status. Gatsby’s pursuit of the American Dream is a representation of his desire to be accepted by the elite class, but his humble beginnings prevent him from ever achieving this. Social class is a major factor in determining who one builds relationships with, as it is considered socially unacceptable to date someone of a lower class. Money and materialism come with high status, and people are not willing to leave that behind for love. The world revolves around money, as people are controlled by it.