Jay Gatsby’s death is symbolic of the demise of the great American dream.
The American dream expounds that through hard-work anyone can find success and happiness. However, when Gatsby died, he eliminated this possibility for all the characters. Nick lost his ties with the elite, Daisy lost her opportunity to find true love, and ultimately Gatsby’s death ushered the death of the American dream.
The Great Gatsby
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The Argument
Gatsby's death is symbolic of the death of the American dream, bringing the novel full-circle. Even though George Wilson murdered him, Gatsby still carries some of the blame for his death. He took responsibility for Myrtle Wilson's death in order to protect Daisy.[1]
The plot builds to that moment, with death being the climax of the story. It again separates the characters, and they go back to their daily lives. Without Gatsby, the characters are not tied together.
The only person that grieves over Gatsby is Nick Carraway. He lost a friend and his ties to the elite class; without Gatsby, Nick does not see the point in staying in New York so he moves back to the Midwest.
Counter arguments
Gatsby's death isn't symbolic of the death of the American dream. Instead, it is a symbol of his love for Daisy. He was able to prove how much he loved and cared for her by taking responsibility for Myrtle's death. Gatsby created his life around pursuing Daisy, and she was the reason for his death.
Proponents
Premises
[P1] Gatsby's death symbolizes the death of the American dream.
[P2] Gatsby's death is the climax of the novel.
[P3] Therefore, the theme of The Great Gatsby is death.