IndexThe illusion of wealthThe American dream gone awryThe loss of identityConclusionBibliographyThe concept of symbolism is prevalent throughout F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel, The Great Gatsby. One of the most significant symbols in the novel is Gatsby's house. This opulent and extravagant home serves as a representation of Gatsby's character, his aspirations, and the corrupt nature of the American dream. By examining the symbolism of Gatsby's house, we can more fully understand the themes and messages conveyed in the novel. This essay will explore the symbolism of Gatsby's house, highlighting its role in portraying the illusory nature of wealth and the emptiness of the American dream. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay The Illusion of Wealth Gatsby's house is described as a "colossal affair" (Fitzgerald, 11), a large mansion that exudes a sense of extravagance and excess. The house is located in West Egg, a wealthy neighborhood on Long Island, inhabited by "new money" individuals such as Gatsby. The opulence of Gatsby's home serves as a facade, masking the reality of his newfound wealth. Gatsby's lavish parties, filled with people who have no genuine connection to him, are a reflection of this illusory wealth. The house becomes a symbol of the superficiality and emptiness that often accompanies material success. The house itself is described as a "huge cardboard box" (Fitzgerald, 83), highlighting the fragile and temporary nature of Gatsby's wealth. Like the cardboard box, Gatsby's fortune is fragile and easily destroyed. The false sense of security and stability provided by the house represents Gatsby's desperate attempt to maintain his illusory dreams of wealth and happiness. The American Dream Gone Wrong Gatsby's house symbolizes the corrupt nature of the American Dream, which is a major theme in the novel. The American dream, the belief that anyone can achieve success and prosperity through hard work and determination, is portrayed as an empty promise. Gatsby's house, with its excessive material possessions and extravagant parties, represents the distorted version of the American dream that prioritizes wealth and social status over genuine happiness and fulfillment. Gatsby's house is a stark contrast to Tom and Daisy Buchanan's nearby mansion. Although Gatsby's house is filled with material wealth, it lacks the warmth and authenticity present in the Buchanan house. The Buchanans, born rich, represent the old moneyed aristocracy of which Gatsby aspires to be part. However, Gatsby's house, despite its grandeur, fails to provide him with the acceptance and social status he desires. This contrast highlights the hollowness and futility of pursuing the American dream solely for material gain. Loss of Identity Another aspect of the symbolism of Gatsby's house is its role in representing the loss of identity. Gatsby, originally named James Gatz, creates a new character for himself to fit into upper-class society. His house becomes a physical manifestation of his constructed identity. The house is designed to impress and intimidate, with its gaudy decorations and excessive display of wealth. However, behind the facade of his house, Gatsby's true identity is lost. He is so consumed by the pursuit of wealth and Daisy Buchanan that he loses sight of who he really is. The house, with its extravagant parties and constant flow of people, serves as a distraction from Gatsby's inner emptiness and loneliness. It becomes a symbol of his desperate attempts to reinvent himself and escape his past. Conclusion In, 2004.