Materialism, Moral Decay, and the Corruption of the American Dream: A Study of the Moral Failure of American Society in The Great Gatsby

 “Materialism, Moral Decay, and the Corruption of the American Dream: A Study of the Moral Failure of American Society in The Great Gatsby.”

Academic Details

• Name:  Parmar Dimpal 

• Roll No : 5

• Enrollment No : 5108250025

• Sem.: 02

• Batch: 2025-2027

• Email: dimpalparmar5704@gmail.com

Assignment Details 

● Paper Name: 22399 Paper 106: The Twentieth Century Literature: 1900 to World War II

● Topic: Materialism, Moral Decay, and the Corruption of the American Dream: A Study of the Moral Failure of American Society in The Great Gatsby.

●  Submitted To:

 Smt. S.B. Gardi, Department of English , Maharaja Krishnakumarsinhji Bhavnagar University

● Submitted Date: 3/5/2026

Table of contents :

• Academic Details
• Assignment Details
• Abstract
• Keywords
• Research Question
• Hypothesis
• Introduction
• The American Dream and Its Corruption
• Materialism and Conspicuous Consumption
• Moral Irresponsibility of the Wealthy Class
• Social Inequality and Class Division
• Gatsby’s Dream and Its Tragic Failure
• Symbolism and Moral Vision
• Conclusion
• Work cited

Abstract

This assignment examines the moral failure of American society as portrayed in The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald. Set in the 1920s, during the Jazz Age, the novel highlights the rise of wealth, materialism, and social ambition, which replace traditional moral values. Through Jay Gatsby’s pursuit of love and success, Fitzgerald shows how the American Dream is corrupted by greed, social inequality, and moral decay. Characters such as Tom and Daisy Buchanan reflect the irresponsibility and carelessness of the wealthy elite. Using critical perspectives from Tony McAdams, John Fraser, E. Ray Canterbery, and Marius Bewley, the assignment explores themes of ethical failure, conspicuous consumption, and the moral emptiness of society. Overall, The Great Gatsby presents not only a tragic story of love and ambition but also a powerful critique of the moral condition of American society in the Jazz Age.

Keywords: American Dream, Materialism, Moral Decay, Social Inequality, Conspicuous Consumption, Jazz Age Society, Symbolism, Ethical Failure.

Keywords

American Dream; Materialism; Moral Decay; Social Inequality; Class Division; Conspicuous Consumption; Jazz Age; Wealth and Power; Ethical Failure; Symbolism.

Research Question

How does The Great Gatsby portray the moral failure of American society through materialism, social inequality, and the corruption of the American Dream?

Hypothesis

The novel The Great Gatsby suggests that the American Dream becomes corrupted when society prioritizes wealth, material success, and social status over morality, honesty, and genuine human relationships.

1. Introduction

The 1920s in America, often called the Jazz Age, was a period marked by rapid economic growth, social change, and cultural transformation. Beneath the glamour of wealth, luxury, and celebration, however, lay a deep moral crisis within American society. The pursuit of wealth and material success gradually replaced traditional values such as honesty, integrity, and social responsibility. This moral crisis is powerfully depicted in The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald. The novel presents a critical picture of American society where materialism, corruption, and social inequality dominate human relationships and moral values.

Fitzgerald uses the tragic story of Jay Gatsby to reveal the darker side of the American Dream. Gatsby’s dream of love and success ultimately collapses because the society in which he lives is morally corrupt and spiritually empty. The wealthy elite, represented by characters such as Tom Buchanan and Daisy Buchanan, demonstrate carelessness and irresponsibility toward others. Their actions illustrate a society that values wealth and status over morality and humanity.

Several critics have examined the moral dimensions of the novel. In his influential essay, Marius Bewley argues that The Great Gatsby serves as a profound criticism of American civilization and the corruption of the American Dream. According to Bewley, Gatsby’s tragedy reflects the moral emptiness of a society that worships wealth but lacks ethical values. Similarly, John Fraser emphasizes the contrast between Gatsby’s idealistic dreams and the morally decaying environment of the Jazz Age.

Tony McAdams interprets the novel from the perspective of business ethics, suggesting that the characters in the novel demonstrate ethical failure in their pursuit of wealth and success. McAdams argues that Gatsby’s involvement in illegal business activities and the careless behavior of the wealthy characters reflect the moral weakness of American capitalism during the 1920s. E. Ray Canterbery further expands this interpretation by connecting the novel to the ideas of economist Thorstein Veblen, who criticized the culture of conspicuous consumption and the leisure class.

Through its characters, symbols, and narrative structure, The Great Gatsby reveals the moral failure of American society. The novel illustrates how materialism, social inequality, and the corruption of the American Dream lead to the destruction of genuine human values. By examining the insights of critics such as Bewley, Fraser, McAdams, and Canterbery, it becomes clear that Fitzgerald’s novel is not merely a romantic tragedy but a powerful critique of the moral condition of modern America.

2. The American Dream and Its Corruption

One of the central themes of The Great Gatsby is the transformation and corruption of the American Dream. Traditionally, the American Dream represented the belief that anyone, regardless of social background, could achieve success through hard work and determination. It symbolized hope, equality, and the possibility of a better future. However, in Fitzgerald’s novel, this dream becomes distorted by materialism and social inequality.

Jay Gatsby embodies the idealistic version of the American Dream. Born into poverty as James Gatz, he reinvents himself through determination and ambition. His rise to wealth appears to reflect the promise of American society. However, Gatsby’s success is not achieved through honest means but through illegal activities connected with organized crime. This moral compromise reflects the broader corruption of the American Dream in the society depicted by Fitzgerald.

Tony McAdams argues that the novel reveals serious ethical problems in the business practices of the time. According to McAdams, Gatsby’s wealth is closely associated with criminal activities such as bootlegging. This connection highlights the ethical failure of a society where financial success is admired regardless of how it is achieved. The admiration that Gatsby receives from society despite his questionable business dealings demonstrates the moral blindness of the era.

John Fraser also emphasizes the tragic contrast between Gatsby’s dream and the corrupt society around him. Gatsby’s dream is fundamentally romantic and idealistic; he believes that wealth will enable him to win Daisy’s love and recreate the past. However, the society in which he lives values money and status more than love or moral integrity. As a result, Gatsby’s dream becomes impossible to achieve.

The characters of Tom and Daisy Buchanan further illustrate the moral corruption of the American Dream. Unlike Gatsby, they inherit their wealth and social status. Yet they demonstrate little sense of responsibility or empathy for others. Tom’s arrogance and Daisy’s emotional carelessness reveal a moral emptiness that lies at the heart of the privileged class.

Through these characters, Fitzgerald shows that the American Dream has lost its original meaning. Instead of representing hope and opportunity, it has become associated with greed, corruption, and moral decay.

3. Materialism and Conspicuous Consumption

Another important aspect of the moral failure of American society in The Great Gatsby is the obsession with wealth and material possessions. The characters in the novel frequently measure success and social status through displays of luxury and extravagance. This obsession with material wealth reflects the influence of consumer culture during the 1920s.

E. Ray Canterbery connects Fitzgerald’s portrayal of wealth with the economic ideas of Thorstein Veblen. Veblen argued that wealthy individuals often engage in “conspicuous consumption,” meaning they display their wealth publicly to gain social prestige. According to Canterbery, Gatsby’s extravagant parties and luxurious mansion exemplify this phenomenon.

Gatsby’s parties attract hundreds of guests who are fascinated by his wealth and lifestyle. However, most of these guests have little personal connection with Gatsby. They attend the parties simply to enjoy the spectacle of luxury and entertainment. This behavior reflects a society that values pleasure and material enjoyment over genuine human relationships.

The Valley of Ashes serves as a powerful symbol of the moral consequences of this materialistic culture. Located between West Egg and New York City, the Valley of Ashes represents the social and environmental destruction caused by industrial capitalism. The bleak landscape contrasts sharply with the wealth and glamour of the wealthy communities, highlighting the inequality that exists within American society.

Through these symbols and characters, Fitzgerald reveals the emptiness of a culture dominated by materialism. Wealth may provide comfort and social status, but it cannot create meaningful relationships or moral fulfillment.

4. Moral Irresponsibility of the Wealthy Class

One of the most striking aspects of moral failure in the novel is the careless behavior of the wealthy elite. Fitzgerald portrays the upper class as morally irresponsible, selfish, and indifferent to the consequences of their actions. Characters such as Tom Buchanan and Daisy Buchanan represent a privileged class that enjoys wealth and social power without any sense of ethical responsibility.

Tom Buchanan is depicted as arrogant, aggressive, and morally corrupt. Despite being married to Daisy, he openly maintains an affair with Myrtle Wilson. His behavior demonstrates not only personal immorality but also a sense of entitlement that comes from his wealth and social status. Tom believes that his position in society allows him to act without facing any consequences.

Daisy Buchanan, although portrayed as charming and attractive, also exhibits moral weakness. She lacks the courage to take responsibility for her actions and ultimately allows Gatsby to take the blame for Myrtle’s death. Her decision to remain with Tom rather than acknowledge her feelings for Gatsby reveals her preference for security and social status over honesty and love.

Critic Tony McAdams argues that the novel can be interpreted as a study of ethical failure in a society driven by wealth and power. According to McAdams, the wealthy characters in the novel demonstrate a lack of moral accountability. They engage in irresponsible behavior while remaining protected by their social privilege.

This moral irresponsibility is summarized in Nick Carraway’s famous observation that Tom and Daisy are “careless people.” They destroy the lives of others and then retreat into their wealth and privilege. This statement captures Fitzgerald’s criticism of an upper-class society that prioritizes comfort and status over morality.

The tragic fate of Gatsby and the suffering of characters such as George Wilson illustrate the consequences of this moral failure. While the wealthy continue their lives unaffected, the less powerful characters bear the burden of tragedy.

5. Social Inequality and Class Division

Another important dimension of the moral failure of American society in The Great Gatsby is the deep social inequality between different classes. Fitzgerald portrays a society divided into distinct social groups, each with its own values and opportunities.

The novel contrasts the communities of East Egg and West Egg. East Egg represents the traditional aristocracy, whose wealth is inherited rather than earned. West Egg, on the other hand, represents the newly rich individuals who have recently acquired wealth. Despite their financial success, the residents of West Egg are not fully accepted by the established elite of East Egg.

Jay Gatsby belongs to the West Egg community. Although he possesses immense wealth, he remains socially inferior in the eyes of the old aristocracy. His desire to win Daisy’s love is partly motivated by his desire to gain acceptance into the elite social circle represented by East Egg.

Critic Marius Bewley argues that Fitzgerald uses this social division to criticize the structure of American society. According to Bewley, the novel reveals that the American Dream of equality is largely an illusion. In reality, social barriers and class distinctions continue to shape people’s opportunities and relationships.

The Valley of Ashes represents the lowest level of this social hierarchy. It is a bleak industrial area inhabited by working-class individuals such as George and Myrtle Wilson. Unlike the wealthy characters who enjoy luxury and privilege, the inhabitants of the Valley of Ashes struggle with poverty and hopelessness.

This stark contrast between wealth and poverty highlights the moral injustice of a society that allows extreme inequality. While the rich indulge in extravagant parties and luxurious lifestyles, the poor endure hardship and exploitation.

Through this portrayal of social division, Fitzgerald exposes the moral contradictions of American society. The promise of equal opportunity is undermined by a social system that favors wealth and privilege.

6. Gatsby’s Dream and Its Tragic Failure

Jay Gatsby is one of the most complex and tragic characters in modern American literature. His life story reflects both the promise and the failure of the American Dream.

Born into poverty as James Gatz, Gatsby transforms himself into a wealthy and mysterious figure through determination and ambition. His success appears to embody the ideal of self-made success that lies at the heart of the American Dream.

However, Gatsby’s dream is not simply about wealth or social status. His true goal is to win the love of Daisy Buchanan and recreate the romantic moment they once shared. Gatsby believes that by achieving wealth and prestige he can overcome the barriers of class and time.

Critic John Fraser describes Gatsby as a romantic dreamer whose idealism ultimately collides with the harsh realities of society. According to Fraser, Gatsby’s tragedy arises from the conflict between his pure vision of love and the corrupt environment of the Jazz Age.

Daisy, whom Gatsby idealizes as the embodiment of beauty and perfection, ultimately fails to live up to his expectations. She is unable to abandon her comfortable life with Tom and lacks the emotional strength to pursue the idealistic future that Gatsby imagines.

Gatsby’s death symbolizes the destruction of his dream. Despite his generosity and loyalty, he is ultimately abandoned by the society he admired. None of the people who attended his lavish parties come to his funeral, revealing the superficial nature of their relationships.

Through Gatsby’s tragic fate, Fitzgerald demonstrates how the moral emptiness of society destroys idealism and hope.

7. Symbolism and Moral Vision

Fitzgerald uses powerful symbols throughout the novel to express his criticism of American society. These symbols deepen the reader’s understanding of the moral themes of the story.

One of the most important symbols is the Green Light located at the end of Daisy’s dock. For Gatsby, the green light represents hope, aspiration, and the possibility of achieving his dream. However, as the story progresses, the green light also comes to symbolize the unattainable nature of that dream.

Another significant symbol is the Valley of Ashes, which represents the moral and social consequences of industrial capitalism. The bleak and lifeless landscape suggests a society that has sacrificed human values in the pursuit of wealth and progress.

The Eyes of Dr. T. J. Eckleburg, depicted on a large billboard overlooking the Valley of Ashes, symbolize a form of moral judgment. The faded eyes appear to watch over the actions of the characters, suggesting the presence of a higher moral authority in a world that seems to lack ethical guidance.

Critics have often interpreted these symbols as expressions of Fitzgerald’s moral vision. They reveal the contrast between the ideals of the American Dream and the harsh realities of modern society.

8. Conclusion

The Great Gatsby remains one of the most powerful critiques of American society in twentieth-century literature. Through the tragic story of Jay Gatsby, Fitzgerald exposes the moral failure underlying the pursuit of wealth and social status during the Jazz Age.

The novel reveals how the American Dream has been corrupted by materialism, social inequality, and moral irresponsibility. Characters such as Tom and Daisy Buchanan represent a privileged class that enjoys wealth without accepting ethical responsibility. Gatsby himself embodies the hope and idealism of the American Dream, yet his tragic fate demonstrates the destructive consequences of a morally empty society.

The insights of critics such as Tony McAdams, John Fraser, E. Ray Canterbery, and Marius Bewley further illuminate the novel’s moral themes. Their analyses show that Fitzgerald’s work is not merely a romantic tragedy but a profound social critique.

Ultimately, The Great Gatsby warns that a society that values wealth and power above morality and human connection will inevitably experience spiritual and ethical decline. Fitzgerald’s novel therefore continues to resonate with modern readers as a timeless reflection on the moral challenges of modern civilization.

Work cited:

Bewley, Marius. “Scott Fitzgerald’s Criticism of America.” The Sewanee Review, vol. 62, no. 2, 1954, pp. 223–46. JSTOR, http://www.jstor.org/stable/27538346. Accessed 10 Mar. 2026.

Canterbery, E. Ray. “Thorstein Veblen and ‘The Great Gatsby.’” Journal of Economic Issues, vol. 33, no. 2, 1999, pp. 297–304. JSTOR, http://www.jstor.org/stable/4227440. Accessed 10 Mar. 2026.

Fitzgerald, F. Scott. The Great Gatsby. Scribner, 2004.

Fraser, John. “Dust and Dreams and the Great Gatsby.” ELH, vol. 32, no. 4, 1965, pp. 554–64. JSTOR, https://doi.org/10.2307/2872258. Accessed 10 Mar. 2026.

McAdams, Tony. “‘The Great Gatsby’ as a Business Ethics Inquiry.” Journal of Business Ethics, vol. 12, no. 8, 1993, pp. 653–60. JSTOR, http://www.jstor.org/stable/25072450. Accessed 10 Mar. 2026.

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