Tom Buchanan, the brutish and arrogant antagonist in F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby, remains one of literature's most compelling and controversial characters. His profound arrogance isn't simply a personality quirk; it's a complex tapestry woven from inherited wealth, ingrained social prejudices, and a deep-seated insecurity masked by aggressive posturing. This exploration delves into the roots of Tom's arrogance, examining key quotes that reveal the layers of his character.
What Makes Tom Buchanan So Arrogant?
Tom's arrogance stems from a potent cocktail of factors. His immense wealth provides him with a sense of entitlement and superiority, allowing him to disregard the rules and feelings of others. He believes his social standing grants him immunity from consequences. Further fueling his arrogance is a deep-seated racism and misogyny, attitudes prevalent in his social circle but amplified by his own inherent prejudices. Ultimately, underneath the bravado lies a fear of losing his status and control, a fear that manifests as aggressive dominance and casual cruelty.
Key Quotes Revealing Tom Buchanan's Arrogance
Let's examine some crucial quotes from the novel that illuminate the sources of Tom's arrogance:
"I'm inclined to reserve all judgments, a habit that has opened up many curious natures to me and also made me the victim of not a few veteran bores."
This seemingly self-deprecating statement is actually a subtle assertion of superiority. Tom presents himself as open-minded, implying he's capable of understanding those unlike himself. However, the implication is that he is the judge, deciding who is worthy of his attention and who is a mere "bore," reinforcing his sense of elevated status.
"And I hope she'll be a fool—that's the best thing a girl can be in this world, a beautiful little fool."
This quote, directed towards his wife Daisy, reveals Tom's blatant misogyny and his desire to control women. He sees women as ornaments, their value based solely on their appearance and their capacity for unquestioning obedience. This patriarchal attitude underscores his inherent arrogance and reinforces his belief in his inherent right to dominate.
"This fella's president of something and they’re building a lot of houses out in West Egg."
Tom's dismissive tone when discussing Gatsby's wealth highlights his class-based arrogance. Even though Gatsby's wealth rivals his own, Tom belittles him, revealing a deep-seated contempt for the "new money" of West Egg, contrasted with his own "old money" legacy. This underscores his belief in a rigid social hierarchy where he sits comfortably at the top.
"I’ve got a nice place here," said Tom, his eyes flashing about restlessly. "Suppose we’d better run along."
This seemingly innocuous statement, delivered after a tense confrontation, displays a casual disregard for the feelings of others. Tom's abrupt dismissal of the situation reflects a profound self-importance; he doesn't feel the need to apologize or even acknowledge the emotional impact of his actions.
How Does Tom Buchanan's Arrogance Contribute to the Novel's Themes?
Tom Buchanan's arrogance is not just a personal flaw; it is a central component of Fitzgerald's critique of the American Dream and the destructive nature of unchecked wealth and power. His behavior highlights the moral decay inherent within the wealthy elite, illustrating the hollowness and superficiality that often accompany immense privilege.
What are the Consequences of Tom Buchanan's Arrogance?
Tom's arrogance leads to a trail of destruction. He fuels the conflict between himself and Gatsby, contributes to Daisy's emotional turmoil, and ultimately helps create the tragic circumstances that lead to Gatsby's demise. His lack of empathy and self-awareness have devastating consequences for himself and those around him.
Through a careful examination of Tom's words and actions, we can understand the multifaceted nature of his arrogance, a trait that serves as a crucial lens through which to examine the novel's broader themes and the devastating impact of unchecked power and privilege.
