Is Gatsby Really Great? Essay Example

For some, greatness is something they are born with naturally, but for others it is something they themselves must achieve in order to have. In The Great Gatsby, F. Scott Fitzgerald portrays Jay Gatsby with admirable qualities, a mysterious persona covering up his truths, superficial faults, and a loyal innocence dedicated to fulfilling his dream. Mr. Gatsbys traits entitle him to being labelled 'great'. Gatsby has admirable qualities that contribute to defining his excellence. Jay's first encounter with the narrator, Nick Carraway, focuses deeply on his smile, explaining how: “It was one of those rare smiles with a quality of eternal reassurance in it, that you may come across four or five times in a life..” (Fitzgerald 48). Along with his captivating appearance, Mr. Jay Gatsby has a superior perspective to compliment it. His generosity is proven after one of his extravagant parties when Lucille accidentally tares her dress on a chair. She mentions that: “he asked me my name and address- inside of a week I got a package from Crorrier's with a new evening gown in it.” (43). The dress Mr. Gatsby delivers is not just any dress Lucille explains, it was a value of Two hundred and sixty-five dollars. With his money, surprisingly, does not come arrogance as shown afterwards when Nick fails to recognize that he is already conversing with the mysterious man himself. Gatsby modestly responds by saying: “I thought you knew, old sport. I'm afraid I'm no a very good host,” (48). Gatsby's reaction reveals the humbleness in his character, even though this mishap is arguably not his fault. Jay's features of excellence earn him to be classified as great.The illusion Gatsby expresses in his persona gives off a sense of greatness in the aspect of magic and make-believe. Nick attends his first party at the Gatsby residence and eventually finds himself in the Library of the mansion. Alongside Jordan, 'Owl Eyes' explains to him the truth behind the crowded bookcases: “It's a bona-fide