The Enigma of Daisy in The Great Gatsby: A Comprehensive Analysis

F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby is filled with complex and multi-layered characters. Among them, Daisy Buchanan stands as a central figure, her character both admired and criticized. Often perceived as weak or selfish, Daisy's multifaceted nature makes her an intriguing subject of literary analysis.

Daisy's Voice as a Symbol

Nick Carraway, the narrator, remarks that Daisy's voice is extraordinary, likening it to a unique melody that can never be played again in this world. Later, Jay Gatsby dismisses this sentiment, stating, "Her voice is full of money," to which Nick agrees. This dialogue is fascinating because it reflects different societal views on Daisy's character. Despite Gatsby's crude assessment, Daisy's voice is indeed a symbol of the ethereal charm and sophistication evoked by the upper-class lifestyle in the 1920s, a time when financial affluence was often equated with cultural refinement.

Complicated and Flawed Character

Daisy is one of the most flawed and complicated characters in the novel—yet she is also one of the most intriguing. Many readers criticize her for her perceived weakness in standing up for herself and for the poor choices she makes. She is often seen as unable to bring true happiness to herself and others. She is even criticized for allowing Gatsby to take the blame for the fatal car accident, which she caused.

A Realistic Character

However, some see Daisy as neither a hero nor a truly evil person. She is presented as a realistic embodiment of what an ideal upper-class American woman was expected to be at the time: rich, privileged, and conforming to strict social norms. Despite her opulent lifestyle and high status, she lacks true personal freedom and a sense of lasting happiness. Her character reflects the societal constraints placed on women during the Jazz Age.

Veil of Self-deception

At one point, Gatsby and Daisy truly loved each other, as seen in the scene where Daisy shattered the pearl necklace Tom gave her on their wedding day after reading Gatsby’s letter revealing that he was penniless. She rejected him out of her feelings for a man with no money, a moment of genuine affection and strength of character. If her feelings were not genuine, she would not have taken such a bold action.

Choosing Reality Over Idealism

In the end, Daisy chooses to stay with Tom and the life she has with him over Gatsby, who is often considered her one true love. It is said that Daisy is more selfish than Gatsby, and indeed she is. However, she is also more realistic and mature. She understands that the only constant in life is change, and that one can never truly repeat the past. Her decision reflects the harsh realities of life and the human struggle to reconcile idealism with practicality.

Ultimately, Daisy Buchanan is a character that embodies the complexities of the American Dream during a pivotal time in American history. Her story is a poignant reminder of the limitations and realities of a society that often conflates wealth with happiness and identity.