American dream: corruptions through materialistic objects (from theme to text) ROUGH- The concept of the American dream has been present in the lives of many since the beginning of arrival of American literature - The 'American dreamer' typically strives to go from rags to riches, achieving wealth, social status, sophistication, love, and power as he works his way to the top - Over the course of several eras and time periods the American dream has varied slightly, but the end goal remains the same; based on independence, the need for freedom, and the ability and desire to achieve greatness throughout one's life. The early American dream was first introduced by early settlers who aspired to move west and find land to start a new life and business, this eventually gravitated into a materialistic vision that evolved around luxurious mansions, fancy cars and clothes expensive, thus indicating great achievements - Within the novel GG, Jay Gatsby is a man who comes from a poor family with no wealth - he only has one plan to achieve greatness (American Dream) - The author demonstrates how one can lose of view in life and become corrupt by focusing only on wealth, supremacy and materialistic possessions- Gatsby's goal of gaining value, love and happiness in life from materialistic objects is seen as naive and fallacious for his "dream" was corrupt and influenced by the wealth of society and the cynical perspectives of those in his circle - Gatsby is known for his lavish parties and the scandalous guests who attend, but to his dismay they are not his friends and he does this because he is not in able to reach the true meaning of the love for which he strongly strives - Beyond his corrupt mind and his suggestive personality, the one thing that... middle of paper... due to his background he will not be able to never belong- The village of West/East Egg is full of selfish, superficial and unhappy people with the life they live; this group represents the corruption that materialism can bring - Gatsby's goal of success and romance becomes disastrous and ultimately leads to his downfall in the novel - He is surrounded by constant negativity and unhappiness, especially within Daisy's marriage and Tom along with others in the elite society- Due to the influence of others and their cynical outlook on life, Gatsby is blinded by his dreams and idealisms and is unable to see that he cannot buy love or happiness, but simply accumulate greed.- Thus, Fitzgerald effectively illustrates the effects of a materialistic society and the concept of the American dream can corrupt one's hopes and dreams