In F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel, "The Great Gatsby", the characters of Tom Buchanan and Jay Gatsby are in stark contrast to each other, but they also share some similarities. This essay will explore the major differences and similarities between these two characters, providing a deeper understanding of their complex personalities and motivations. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get Original Essay Tom Buchanan is portrayed as a rich, arrogant, and authoritative man who comes from an old class background. He is married to Daisy Buchanan, the female protagonist of the novel, and is described as controlling and manipulative. Tom represents the old, established American upper class, with its inherited wealth and sense of entitlement. It is a symbol of the corruption and moral decay that pervades the society in which the novel is set. On the other hand, Jay Gatsby is a self-made man who has accumulated his wealth through illegal means. He is obsessed with Daisy Buchanan and believes that through his wealth and lavish parties, he can win her back. Gatsby represents the American dream, the idea that anyone can achieve success and wealth through hard work and determination. However, his pursuit of Daisy ultimately leads to his downfall. Despite their differences, Tom and Gatsby also share some similarities. Both men are deeply flawed characters, motivated by their desires and insecurities. Both use their wealth and power to manipulate those around them, albeit in different ways. Tom uses his wealth to control Daisy and assert his dominance, while Gatsby uses his wealth to try to win Daisy's love. One of the key differences between Tom Buchanan and Jay Gatsby is their approach to wealth and status. Tom comes from an old family and is comfortable in his privileged position in society. He flaunts his wealth and status, using them to assert his dominance over others. In contrast, Gatsby rose from a lower class background to become wealthy and successful. However, he is never fully accepted by the old money elite, despite his extravagant parties and flashy lifestyle. An example of this can be seen in the way Tom and Gatsby treat Daisy. Tom sees Daisy as a possession, someone to control and manipulate. He is possessive of her and treats her like an object rather than a person. Gatsby, on the other hand, idealizes Daisy and puts her on a pedestal. He believes his wealth and status can win her back, but in doing so he fails to see her as a real, flawed individual. Another key difference between Tom and Gatsby is their attitude towards the past. Tom is nostalgic for a time when things were simpler, when the old money elite ruled without challenge. Resists change and clings to the traditions of the past. Gatsby, on the other hand, is fixated on the future. He constantly looks forward, believing that he can recreate the past and win back Daisy's love if only he worked hard enough. In an academic article by literary critic Harold Bloom, he discusses the theme of wealth and class in "The Great Gatsby", highlighting the differences between Tom Buchanan and Jay Gatsby. Bloom argues that Tom represents the decline of the old moneyed elite, while Gatsby symbolizes the rise of the self-made man in American society. This analysis sheds light on the social forces at play in the novel and how they shape the characters' motivations and actions. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay In.