Abstract

In this dissertation, based on the most outstanding American writer Fitzgerald's "great Gatsby" as the research material, "the great Gatsby" is the essence of the criticism to the American dream. After an in-depth understanding of the social and historical factors to the formation of the American dream, we can see the essence of Gatsby's pursuit of the American dream from the vivid description of protagonist's personalities and the analysis of influence of class society to the American dream. The inevitability of Gatsby’s disillusion not only has its profound social reasons, but also is relevant to the character of Gatsby's innocents and unworldly, as well as the typical representative, Daisy and Tom, who are the symbol of indifference and moral decay in American Society. These factors determine the Gatsby’s tragic fate fundamentally. 

Keywords: The Great Gatsby; tragic fate; reason

Contents

Abstract

摘要

1.Introduction.1

1.1 F. Scott. Fitzgerald and his works1

1.2 A brief summary of the story1 

2.Gatsby’s Dream2

2.1 Tradition of American dream2

2.2 Gatsby’s pursuit of wealth and social status.3

2.3 Gatsby’s love for Daisy.4

3.Causes of Gatsby’s Tragedy4

3.1 Social causes.4

3.1.1 The hierarchical society4

3.1.2 The ruthless society5

3.2 Personal causes6

3.2.1 Disillusionment of Gatsby’s love.6

3.2.2 Corruption of Gatsby8

4.Conclusion.9

References.10