Abstract: Francis Scott Fitzgerald, a famous American novelist in twentieth century, occupies an important position in American literary circles. He is the writer of the “lost generation” and the poet of the “Jazz Time”. The Great Gatsby, a masterpiece of his works, is widely considered as a classic of American literature. At that time, this novel has an important influence on the society, which is allegorically reflected the theme of American dream during the “Roaring twenties”. Symbolism is widely and successfully applied in The Great Gatsby, It lays stress on the theme and makes Fitzgerald's work different in criticizing the American Dream. This thesis discusses symbolism in the works from perspective of colors, social contexts and characters, and reveals their symbolic significance. It finally concludes that symbolism plays a significant role in "The Great Gatsby".

Key Words: symbolism, Great Gatsby, American dream 

CONTENTS

摘要

Abstract

1. Introduction.1

2. Symbols in The Great Gatsby2

  2.1 Symbolic Meanings of Colors 

    2.1.1 Green 

    2.1.2 White 

    2.1.3 Golden 

  2.2 Symbolic Meanings of Social Contexts 

    2.2.1 East Egg 

    2.2.2 West Egg 

  2.3 Symbolic Meaning of Characters 

    2.3.1 Gatsby 

    2.3.2 Daisy 

3. Conclusion7

Bibliography 8

Acknowledgements9