The theme of wealth is a central aspect of F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel, "The Great Gatsby." Throughout the story, wealth serves as both a source of fascination and a source of conflict.
One of the most prominent ways in which wealth is portrayed in the novel is through the character of Jay Gatsby himself. Gatsby is presented as an enigmatic figure who is incredibly wealthy, yet the source of his wealth remains a mystery. Gatsby's opulent lifestyle, with his lavish parties and lavish mansion, is a clear indication of his wealth. However, the novel also hints at the fact that Gatsby may have acquired his wealth through illicit means, such as bootlegging and other illegal activities. This serves to underscore the corrupting influence of wealth, as Gatsby's wealth is tainted by his involvement in illegal activities.
Another way in which wealth is portrayed in the novel is through the character of Tom Buchanan, a wealthy and privileged man who is completely oblivious to the suffering of others. Tom is portrayed as a selfish and arrogant character who is more concerned with his own pleasure than with the well-being of others. This is evident in the way that he treats his mistress, Myrtle, as well as in his casual racism and disregard for the feelings of others. Tom's wealth allows him to indulge his every whim, but it also serves to distance him from the realities of the world around him.
Finally, the theme of wealth is also present in the character of Daisy Buchanan, Gatsby's former love interest. Daisy is depicted as a woman who is entirely defined by her wealth and status, and who is unable to see beyond these superficial qualities. She is depicted as shallow and superficial, and her obsession with wealth and status ultimately leads to the downfall of both herself and Gatsby.
Overall, the theme of wealth in "The Great Gatsby" serves to highlight the corrupting influence of money and the dangers of letting material possessions consume one's life. It is a cautionary tale about the dangers of allowing wealth to become the driving force in one's life, and serves as a reminder of the importance of living a life that is grounded in values and genuine human connection.
In Harper Lee's "To Kill a Mockingbird," the theme of prejudice and discrimination is introduced through the topic sentence, "You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view - until you climb into his skin and walk around in it." This sentence, spoken by Atticus Finch, the novel's protagonist and a moral compass for his children, sets the stage for the exploration of prejudice and discrimination that takes place throughout the book.
Throughout the novel, various forms of prejudice and discrimination are depicted, including racial prejudice against African Americans, social prejudice against the poor and disadvantaged, and prejudice against those who are different or perceived as outsiders. These prejudices are often perpetuated through social norms, power dynamics, and fear of the unknown.
The theme of prejudice and discrimination is central to the story of "To Kill a Mockingbird," as it is depicted through the experiences of the novel's main characters, including Scout Finch, the narrator, and her brother Jem. The two children learn about the harsh realities of prejudice and discrimination through their interactions with characters such as Tom Robinson, a black man falsely accused of a crime, and Boo Radley, a mysterious and misunderstood neighbor.
Through the eyes of Scout and Jem, readers are able to see the impact of prejudice and discrimination on individuals and society as a whole. The characters' struggles with these issues serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of understanding and empathy in addressing and overcoming prejudice and discrimination.
In conclusion, the topic sentence of "To Kill a Mockingbird" - "You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view - until you climb into his skin and walk around in it" - encapsulates the central theme of the novel, which is the damaging effects of prejudice and discrimination on individuals and society. Through the experiences of the novel's main characters, readers are reminded of the importance of empathy and understanding in addressing and overcoming these issues.
