An Analysis of the Character Daisy in <i>The Great Gatsby</i>

Daisy Buchanan, the central female figure in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s seminal novel The Great Gatsby, has been traditionally characterized by critics and admirers alike as a superficial, vulgar, and materialistic individual. However, this pervasive portrayal fails to account for the intricate social context and personal upbringing that shaped Daisy’s identity. The conventional perception of Daisy not only misrepresents her character but also neglects Fitzgerald’s nuanced stance on women. Critics who adhere to this conventional viewpoint often align themselves with Nick Carraway, the novel’s narrator, whose evaluations of the primary characters are inherently influenced by his personal biases and limitations as a narrator. This thesis aims to challenge and rectify these prevailing perceptions by presenting a more balanced and nuanced view of Daisy Buchanan. It is organized into three distinct subsections, each dedicated to a thorough exploration of a pivotal aspect of Daisy’s identity. The thesis concludes that Daisy, much like Gatsby, was a victim of the oppressive and disillusioning social dynamics of the Jazz Age. Despite her apparent wealth and privilege, Daisy faced her own tragic circumstances and struggled to cope with profound sorrow and bitterness in a manner unique to her experiences and personality.