Is Tom Buchanan A Round Or Flat Character

Is Tom Buchanan a Round or Flat Character? A Deep Dive into The Great Gatsby

F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby is a masterpiece of modernist literature, captivating readers for nearly a century with its exploration of wealth, love, and the American Dream. Central to this exploration is Tom Buchanan, a character whose complexity has sparked endless debate: is he a round character, fully developed with internal contradictions and growth, or a flat character, defined by a single, unchanging trait? This essay will argue that while Tom initially appears flat, a closer examination reveals him to be a surprisingly round character, albeit a deeply unpleasant one, whose actions and motivations reveal a multifaceted, albeit disturbing, personality.

The Initial Impression: A Flat Character Defined by Brutality

At first glance, Tom Buchanan fits the definition of a flat character. He's presented as a physically imposing figure, embodying the arrogance and entitlement of the wealthy elite. His brute strength is explicitly stated, and his actions consistently reflect a sense of entitlement and aggression. He's openly racist, violently misogynistic, and displays a casual cruelty that underscores his lack of empathy. His affair with Myrtle Wilson, his disregard for Daisy’s feelings, and his callous treatment of others paint a picture of a man defined by his inherent flaws. This initial portrayal strongly suggests a one-dimensional character, a villain archetype whose primary function is to serve as an antagonist.

The Symbolism of Brute Strength: A Defining Trait

Fitzgerald's description of Tom repeatedly emphasizes his physical dominance: his "hard mouth and supercilious manner," his "hulking" figure, and his "cruel body." These descriptions establish him as a force of nature, a man who relies on his physical presence and intimidation to get his way. This reinforces the initial impression of a flat character, a brute whose actions stem solely from his inherent aggression. His physical strength, then, acts as a symbolic representation of his social and moral dominance, further solidifying the flat character interpretation for the casual reader.

The Unwavering Belief in Racial Superiority: A Defining Ideology

Tom's casual racism, evident in his derogatory remarks about minorities, further supports the argument for a flat character. He embodies the ingrained prejudices of the Roaring Twenties, showcasing an unwavering belief in white supremacy that is never challenged or questioned throughout the novel. This seemingly inflexible stance suggests a character lacking internal conflict or growth, characteristics typically associated with flat characters. The unwavering nature of this belief seems to lock him into a singular, prejudiced worldview.

Delving Deeper: Unveiling the Round Character Within

However, a deeper examination reveals layers of complexity that challenge this simplistic interpretation. While his brutality and prejudice are undeniable, Tom's actions and motivations are not solely driven by these traits. He exhibits moments of vulnerability, insecurity, and even a twisted sense of loyalty that suggest a more nuanced character than initially perceived.

The Fear of Loss and the Need for Control: A Round Character's Motivation

Tom's aggressive behavior can be interpreted as a manifestation of his deep-seated insecurities and fear of loss. His affair with Myrtle, despite his wealth and social status, points to a need for control and validation that transcends simple physical desire. He seeks to dominate those around him, not just physically, but also emotionally and socially. This insecurity, hidden beneath the veneer of arrogance, hints at a character struggling with his own internal demons, a crucial element of round character development.

The Unexpected Glimpses of Vulnerability: Revealing Inner Conflict

While few and far between, there are moments where Tom's carefully constructed facade cracks, revealing glimpses of vulnerability and uncertainty. His reaction to Gatsby's wealth, for example, reveals a hint of insecurity and jealousy. He is clearly threatened by Gatsby's charm and success, suggesting a depth of emotion beyond his surface brutality. These flashes of vulnerability, although subtle, demonstrate internal conflict and complexity, moving him beyond the simplistic definition of a flat character.

The Twisted Loyalty to Daisy: Exploring Complex Relationships

Tom's relationship with Daisy, while undeniably toxic, is more complicated than simply possessing her. He holds a possessive loyalty, demonstrating his possessive nature and insecurity. He is fiercely protective of Daisy, yet treats her with contempt. This complicated dynamic showcases a complex relationship that further undermines the notion of a flat, one-dimensional character. His actions, driven by a mixture of love, possessiveness, and fear of loss, are not easily categorized as simply evil or selfish.

The Symbolic Representation of the Old Money Elite: A Multifaceted Role

Tom's role in the novel extends beyond simply being a villain. He serves as a potent symbol of the old money elite, representing their ingrained prejudices, moral decay, and callous disregard for others. His actions reflect the societal ills of the Jazz Age, exposing the hypocrisy and superficiality of the wealthy class. This multifaceted symbolic role demands a more nuanced characterization, further supporting the argument that he is, in fact, a round character.

The Contrast with Gatsby: Highlighting Character Depth

The contrast between Tom and Gatsby further underscores Tom's roundness. Gatsby, despite his questionable methods, is driven by a passionate, albeit misguided, pursuit of love. Tom, while seemingly possessing everything Gatsby desires, is empty and unfulfilled. This comparison highlights the complexities within Tom's character, revealing the emptiness at the core of his seemingly successful life. The juxtaposition of the two characters strengthens the argument for Tom's complexity as a round character, rather than merely a simplistic, flat portrayal of wealth and power.

The Evolution Throughout the Narrative: Subtle Shifts in Behavior

While Tom's core personality remains largely unchanged throughout the novel, there are subtle shifts in his behavior that reveal a capacity for adaptation and strategic maneuvering. His initial confidence wavers slightly when confronted by Gatsby's wealth and charm, indicating a capacity for emotional reaction and change, however slight. The way he handles the revelation of his affair and its consequences, though ultimately cruel, displays a degree of cunning and self-preservation that also points towards a more complex characterization.

Conclusion: A Round Character in a Complex World

In conclusion, while Tom Buchanan's initial presentation suggests a flat character defined by his brutality and prejudice, a closer reading reveals a far more complex individual. His motivations, his occasional glimpses of vulnerability, and the complexity of his relationships all contribute to a more nuanced portrayal. He serves as a powerful symbol of the flaws within the old money elite, but he is also a deeply flawed human being grappling with his own insecurities and anxieties. Therefore, while undeniably unlikeable, Tom Buchanan ultimately emerges as a round character, albeit a deeply troubling and unpleasant one, who adds significantly to the novel's overall complexity and thematic resonance. His existence pushes the boundaries of character archetypes, enriching the narrative and prompting readers to engage with his multifaceted nature beyond simple labels. His character transcends the simplistic dichotomy of good and evil, forcing the reader to confront the grey areas of human morality and the complexities of human nature, a key characteristic of round characters in literature.