Essay On Minor Characters In The Great Gatsby

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Any novel or story needs strong major characters to create a logical plot line and to keep the reader engaged in the characters’ conflicts. With that said, minor characters can have just as big of an impact on a story as major characters do; as they sometimes act as an important symbol, or add minute but essential meaning to a story line. In The Great Gatsby, F. Scott Fitzgerald uses the minor characters, George Wilson, Meyer Wolfsheim, and Pammy Buchanan to provide insight into the life of Jay Gatsby himself.

A hard-working and honest man, George Wilson is a dedicated mechanic with a diligent attitude in his everything he does. This strong work ethic demonstrates his ability to work honestly for money, which deeply contrasts Gatsby’s dishonest attainment of finances from selling bootleg liquor. George’s demanding and copious hours spent day in and day out in the shop have greatly affected him as Nick describes George’s appearance upon their first meeting, “He was a blond, spiritless man, anemic, and faintly handsome (25).” His …show more content…

Wolfsheim, a high-rolling gambler, is famous for fixing the 1919 World Series, and his ability to carelessly cheat makes him a symbol of corruption. Tom excitingly reveals Gatsby’s involvement with Wolfsheim’s schemes when he finally announces, “He and this Wolfsheim bought up a lot of side-street drug stores here and in Chicago and sold grain alcohol over the counter. That’s one of his little stunts (143).” Gatsby’s illegal manner of attaining wealth with Wolfsheim’s plans contrasts the generous and benevolent exterior he proudly wears, which he allows Daisy to believe. Because of Meyer Wolfsheim, both Gatsby’s virtues and vices can be explored to fully understand his past and present

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