Are they all victims?

Sammanfattning: Patriarchal ideologies, gender equality and the conflict between the old and modern ways of life have always been topics of discussion in contemporary society. In 1925, F. Scott Fitzgerald published The Great Gatsby, when patriarchal ideologies were dominant in American society and American literature. Additionally, there is an ambivalence showing that although times were changing, the gender stereotypes and classes depicted by both male and female characters in Fitzgerald’s novel appear to prevail. By applying theories of feminist and post-colonial criticism, it can be suggested that although it seems that the characters in the novel embrace the social changes by being depicted as the “New Woman” or as an advocate for the American dream, they still follow the rules of the patriarch and are submissive to the ruling class. The purpose of this essay is to discuss how men and women in The Great Gatsby realistically conduct their lives during a time of social development. Many scholars have previously written their concerns regarding these issues although this essay will deal with how men and women in The Great Gatsby are all victims and that despite the liberating times and post-colonial attitudes what can be considered “the other” prevails.