Journal Entry #7: Sentence Starter (Comparing Characters)

Gatsby's character in "The Great Gatsby" and Willy Loman in "Death of a Salesman" share striking similarities, primarily in their unwavering pursuit of an idealized version of the American Dream. Both characters are deeply invested in the belief that success, wealth, and social status will bring them happiness and fulfillment, despite the overwhelming obstacles they face. Gatsby, a self-made millionaire, seeks to recapture the love of Daisy Buchanan, believing that his wealth will win her back. Similarly, Willy Loman's obsession with being well-liked and achieving material success leads him to constantly chase unattainable dreams, neglecting the more meaningful aspects of life, such as personal fulfillment and family relationships.

Both characters are deluded by their own ideals. Gatsby is consumed by the illusion that he can recreate the past, while Willy’s fixation on his dreams of success blinds him to the reality of his failures. Their misguided pursuit of success ultimately leads to their downfall. Gatsby's tragic end comes when he is unable to win Daisy's heart, despite all his wealth and extravagant parties. Willy, on the other hand, dies believing that his death will somehow lead to financial security for his family, a dream that proves to be just as hollow as Gatsby's.

Moreover, both characters are marked by a sense of isolation and a rejection of the present in favor of a fantasized future. They refuse to accept that the world around them is changing and that their dreams are out of reach. In this sense, Gatsby and Willy are tragic figures, caught in the grip of their own unattainable desires, ultimately illustrating the dangers of chasing false dreams in the pursuit of an idealized life.

Sources:
The Book - https://www.planetebook.com/free-ebooks/the-great-gatsby.pdf

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