The Roaring Twenties: The Setting of The Great Gatsby
05.12.2023 // By Tome Tailor
The 1920s, often referred to as “The Roaring Twenties,” was a time of significant social, economic, and cultural changes in the United States. This era serves as the backdrop for F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel “The Great Gatsby”, which captures the essence of the era and paints a vivid picture of America’s society and lifestyle of the time. In this blog post, we will delve into the setting of “The Great Gatsby” to better understand the world the characters inhabit, and the influences on their lives.
An Era of Prosperity
The Roaring Twenties marked a period of immense prosperity in the United States. The decade was characterized by rapid economic growth and the rise of consumer culture. After the hardships and devastation of the First World War, many Americans were eager to enjoy the fruits of their labor and newfound peace.
The automobile industry skyrocketed, making cars more affordable for the average American household. Mass production techniques, such as the assembly line, allowed for the speedy production and distribution of goods, while the expansion of the stock market meant more people, from various socio-economic backgrounds, were investing in the hope of making a profit.
With the affluence of the era, people were able to afford luxuries and indulge in excess. This prosperity is reflected in “The Great Gatsby” through the lavish parties thrown by the novel’s central character, Jay Gatsby, as well as the decadent lifestyles led by Tom and Daisy Buchanan.
Read or listen to “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Social Changes and the Flapper Lifestyle
The 1920s also marked changes in American society, including a shift in the role of women. The women’s suffrage movement had earned women the right to vote, and the new woman of the 1920s, often called a “flapper,” embraced freedoms in ways that had not previously been socially acceptable.
Flappers were known for their short, bobbed hairstyles and their daringly new fashion sense – wearing dresses with shorter hemlines and exposing more of their bodies than ever before. They smoked, drank, danced, and participated in activities that had historically been reserved for men.
In “The Great Gatsby,” the character of Jordan Baker is portrayed as a flapper. Her independence, determination, and disregard for traditional social norms make her a prime example of a woman embracing the changes of the era.
Read or listen to “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Prohibition and the Rise of Organized Crime
Despite the economic growth and social liberation, the 1920s was also a time of moral conflict. In 1920, the 18th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution prohibited the manufacture, sale, and distribution of intoxicating liquors, sparking a nationwide campaign known as Prohibition. This led to the rise of speakeasies, illegal underground bars, and the moonshine industry as Americans sought to continue indulging in alcohol.
Furthermore, Prohibition provided an opportunity for organized crime to thrive. Mobsters and gangsters like Al Capone dominated the illegal liquor trade and amassed fortunes by smuggling and distributing alcohol, leading to an increase in violent crime.
The character of Jay Gatsby in “The Great Gatsby” is implied to have accumulated his wealth through less-than-legal means, further highlighting the impact of Prohibition and organized crime on the era.
Read or listen to “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald
The American Dream
One of the most prominent themes in “The Great Gatsby” is the idea of the American Dream – the belief that through hard work, determination, and perseverance, anyone can achieve success and prosperity regardless of their social class or background.
However, as the novel progresses, Fitzgerald’s portrayal of the American Dream becomes increasingly cynical, suggesting that the materialism and moral decay of the era may have contributed to the corruption and disillusionment of these ideals. Ultimately, this serves as a commentary on the harsh realities of the Roaring Twenties and the consequences of the reckless pursuit of wealth and social status.
Read or listen to “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Conclusion
F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby” encapsulates the rich culture, excess, and moral struggles of the Roaring Twenties. By painting an accurate portrait of this fascinating era, Fitzgerald invites readers to immerse themselves in the world he created and reflect on the enduring themes and social commentary his novel presents.
If you want to read or listen to the fascinating story of Jay Gatsby and his world during the Roaring Twenties, buy “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald on Amazon.