A Reality Check on the American Dream in The Great Gatsby: A Textual Analysis through Strain Theories

Abstract

This article uses Robert Merton's ‘Strain Theory’ and Agnew's ‘General Strain Theory’ to investigate the manifestations of deviant behavior in F. Scott Fitzgerald's seminal novel The Great Gatsby. This study delves into the socioeconomic and psychological strains experienced by the novel's characters using meticulous textual analysis as its methodology, shedding light on the intricate dynamics between societal expectations, individual aspirations, and the pursuit of the elusive American Dream. By combining the tenets of Strain Theory with the narrative landscape of the novel, this research elucidates how economic disenfranchisement, materialistic obsessions, and psychological pressures contribute to the portrayal of deviance and disillusionment among the characters. Furthermore, this analysis sheds light on the underlying sociological realities of the Roaring Twenties era, providing a nuanced understanding of the complexities involved in pursuing the American Dream, as well as the implications for societal norms and individual behavior. Finally, this article contributes to the discourse on American literature and sociological theory by elucidating the enduring relevance of Strain Theories in understanding the complexities of human behavior and social dynamics in the context of Fitzgerald's masterwork.