Tom Buchanan, the brutish and wealthy antagonist in F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby, is a masterclass in portraying toxic masculinity and unchecked arrogance. His arrogance isn't merely a personality quirk; it's the driving force behind his actions, relationships, and ultimately, his downfall. Understanding his arrogance requires delving into the specific quotes that reveal its various facets: blind privilege, casual cruelty, and a profound sense of entitlement. This exploration will dissect key quotes, revealing the layers of Tom's character and highlighting the devastating consequences of his unbridled pride.
Tom's Arrogance Stemming from Wealth and Social Status: "I'm stronger than you are."
This isn't a single, isolated quote, but rather a sentiment that permeates Tom's entire being. His immense wealth and social standing fuel his unwavering belief in his superiority. He believes his money grants him impunity, allowing him to act with reckless abandon and disregard for others. He feels empowered to manipulate, intimidate, and even physically threaten those he deems beneath him. This sense of entitlement is not just arrogance; it's a deeply ingrained belief system that shapes his worldview. He doesn't merely act superior; he genuinely believes it.
How does Tom's wealth contribute to his arrogance?
Tom's wealth isn't just a material possession; it's a symbol of power and influence. He uses his money to maintain control over his wife, Daisy, and to exert dominance over those around him. He buys loyalty, silences dissent, and manipulates situations to his advantage, all fueled by the unshakeable belief that his wealth gives him the right to do so. This isn't merely materialism; it's a form of social Darwinism where economic success equates to inherent superiority.
Tom's Casual Cruelty: "It's up to us, who are the dominant race, to watch out or these other races will have control of things."
This quote is a chilling example of Tom's casual cruelty and blatant racism. It underscores the depth of his arrogance, revealing a belief in his inherent superiority not just based on wealth, but also on race. His casual dismissal of other races showcases a complete lack of empathy and a willingness to uphold systems of oppression. This quote highlights how his arrogance isn't just self-serving; it's inherently destructive and harmful to others.
How does Tom's casual cruelty reveal his arrogance?
Tom's cruelty isn't born out of malice alone; it's a direct consequence of his sense of entitlement. He believes he's above the consequences of his actions, and therefore, he acts without consideration for the feelings or well-being of others. This lack of empathy stems from his deeply ingrained belief in his own superiority. His cruelty is a tool, a way to maintain his dominance and assert his power over those he considers inferior.
Tom's Denial of Responsibility: (Numerous instances throughout the novel showing his inability to accept blame)
Throughout The Great Gatsby, Tom consistently refuses to take responsibility for his actions. His infidelity, his cruelty, his violence – all are brushed aside as inconsequential or the fault of others. This denial is a crucial aspect of his arrogance. He believes himself above reproach, immune to the consequences of his behavior. This refusal to acknowledge his mistakes is a manifestation of his deep-seated sense of entitlement and his unshakeable belief in his own invincibility.
How does Tom’s refusal to take responsibility for his actions reinforce his arrogance?
Tom's inability to take ownership of his actions underscores the extent of his arrogance. He sees himself as a force of nature, unbound by societal norms or moral codes. Any attempt to hold him accountable is met with denial, deflection, or aggression. This unwillingness to confront his own flaws further solidifies his position of superiority in his own mind.
Conclusion: The Crumbling Facade of Arrogance
Tom Buchanan's arrogance isn't merely a character trait; it's the foundation upon which his entire life is built. It's a destructive force that fuels his relationships, drives his actions, and ultimately leads to his downfall. By examining his specific words and actions, we can better understand the multifaceted nature of his arrogance and the devastating consequences of unchecked privilege and entitlement. His arrogance is a potent symbol of the moral decay at the heart of the Roaring Twenties, a stark warning against the dangers of unchecked power and the corrosive effects of believing oneself above the law, morality, and empathy.
