Beginning of Essay
The primary focus of the American dream is that hard work will lead to success, respect, and social status. In Scott Fitzgerald's novel The Great Gatsby the characters show the deterioration of the American dream. Each character in The Great Gatsby shows the wit ....

Middle of Essay
.... Myrtle lacks culture and is very concerned about her appearance making her out to be a superficial character. James Gatsby shows no hard work yet has gained wealth illegally. Although he has wealth he does not attain anything else. He has no respect, power, or success. Gatsby realized that the life of the higher class requires wealth to become their priority and he realizes that is the only way which will allow him to be with Daisy. When Gatsby fails to reach his dream all he has left to show for is his wealth, which was not even gained morally. Gatsby engaged in criminal activity as his only path to being among the rich. His need for money h ....