Sunday, May 17, 2009

16. Stereotypes

Are the characters in The Great Gatsby stereotypes? If so, explain the usefulness of employing stereotypes in the novel. If they are not, explain how they merit individuality.

1 comment:

  1. It depends on the characters. For instance, Tom, Daisy, Jordan, and other wealthy people are stereotypical. They possess the types of personalities that rich people usually possess; like being selfish, disrespectful, immoral, showy, etc. However, characters like Gatsby are not stereotypical. He is a unique person. He is very hard working and dedicated. I think that he dedicates his whole life in that main goal of getting Daisy back. But the use of stereotypes in the novel functions in emphasizing the characters' personalities and mistakes. Because they are stereotypical, we can relate to those kinds of people easier than if they were rare and unique. Therefore, since we can relate to them easier, we can judge them easier and see their problems or mistakes. Stereotypes basically exaggerate the character's personalities and qualities to something that all readers can relate to, so that the author can transmit his messages easier to the audience.

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