The Shifting Paradigm of

the American Dream:

A Comparative Analysis
from Fitzgerald's The
Great Gatsby to
Contemporary
American Literature
Dr. Wesal Yousef Ali
PhD on English Language Department, University collage of Taymma, University of Tabuk, Saudi
Arabia

ABSTRACT. This research delves into the evolving concept of the American
Dream as depicted in American literature, tracing its transformation from
the Jazz Age to the complexities of the 21st century. The study begins with F.
Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby, a cornerstone in critiquing the
materialistic dimensions of the Dream, highlighting themes of
disillusionment and moral decay through iconic symbols such as the green
light and the Valley of Ashes. Moving forward, the research juxtaposes
Fitzgerald's portrayal with contemporary literary works like American Dirt
by Jeanine Cummins and The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead,
which reframe the Dream within modern contexts of immigration,
globalization, and systemic inequality. Employing a thematic analysis, the
study uncovers recurring motifs—such as the interplay of aspiration and
disillusionment, materialism versus morality, and persistent class
stratifications—that link the eras. Ultimately, it argues that the American
Dream, while continually reshaped by societal changes, remains a critical

102
 lens through which American identity and cultural aspirations are
understood.

INTRODUCTION
The American Dream has been a defining element of the cultural and social
fabric of the United States, symbolizing ideals of opportunity, achievement,
and upward mobility. Historically, this concept has evolved alongside the
nation’s shifting economic, political, and cultural landscapes. Literature has
played a pivotal role in reflecting and critiquing the multifaceted nature of
this dream, revealing not only its promises but also its limitations and
contradictions.
This study examines the transformation of the American Dream as
represented in American literature, focusing on two key periods: the Jazz
Age, epitomized by F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby, and the 21st
century, marked by globalization and increasing sociopolitical complexity, as
explored in contemporary works like American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins and
The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead. By tracing the evolution of
this concept, the research aims to highlight the enduring relevance of the
American Dream as a cultural and literary motif.
The objective of this research is twofold: first, to analyze the critique of the
American Dream in The Great Gatsby and its portrayal of disillusionment
and moral decay during the Jazz Age; and second, to explore how modern
literature reframes the dream within contemporary contexts, addressing
themes of immigration, survival, and systemic inequality. Through a
comparative literary analysis, this study seeks to uncover recurring motifs,
such as the tension between materialism and morality, the persistence of
class stratification, and the interplay of aspiration and disillusionment.
In doing so, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of the
American Dream’s transformation over time and its implications for
American identity, offering insights into the ways literature continues to
shape and reflect societal values and aspirations.

PROBLEM STATEMENT
The American Dream, a cornerstone of American cultural identity, has long
been heralded as a symbol of opportunity, success, and upward mobility.
However, as societal, economic, and cultural landscapes have evolved, so too
has the representation and critique of this ideal. Literature, as a reflective

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 medium, has consistently portrayed the complexities, contradictions, and
limitations of the American Dream.
From its depiction in the Jazz Age as a pursuit tainted by materialism and
moral decay, as seen in F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby, to its modern
reinterpretation in contemporary works like Jeanine Cummins’ American
Dirt and Colson Whitehead’s The Underground Railroad, the Dream has been
reshaped to address issues of inequality, systemic barriers, and survival.
These literary works reveal a persistent gap between the idealized vision of
the Dream and the lived realities of individuals striving to achieve it.
Despite its enduring relevance, the American Dream continues to be an
exclusive ideal, often inaccessible to marginalized communities due to
structural inequalities. This research seeks to address the lack of
comprehensive analysis on how literature across different periods critiques
and redefines the Dream. By examining its transformation from the Jazz Age
to the 21st century, the study aims to uncover recurring themes and their
implications for understanding the evolving nature of the American Dream
in contemporary society.

LITERATURE REVIEW
The concept of the American Dream has been a recurring theme in American
literature, offering a lens to examine societal values, cultural shifts, and
economic paradigms over time. From its roots in the ideals of opportunity
and self-made success to its critique as a symbol of unattainable aspiration
and systemic inequality, the American Dream has undergone significant
evolution. This literature review explores its portrayal across different
periods, focusing on its critique, transformation, and enduring relevance.
Historical Context of the American Dream
The American Dream emerged as a defining ideal during the early 20th
century, rooted in the belief that hard work and determination could lead to
success, regardless of one’s origins. Literature of this era often reflected this
optimism but also highlighted the inherent contradictions and challenges.
Writers like F. Scott Fitzgerald, through works such as The Great Gatsby,
portrayed the dissonance between the promise of the Dream and its reality,
particularly in the context of the Jazz Age. The green light, symbolizing
Gatsby's unrelenting hope, and the Valley of Ashes, representing societal
decay, epitomize this tension.
As the 20th century progressed, the Dream began to lose its idealistic sheen.
Economic recessions, the Great Depression, and subsequent world wars
underscored the fragility of its promises, leading to a more critical
examination in literature. Authors questioned whether the Dream was truly
accessible to all or merely a construct benefiting the privileged few.

Dr. Wesal Yousef Ali Philip Roth Studies 104

 The Jazz Age and Its Critique
The Jazz Age of the 1920s, often referred to as the Roaring Twenties, was a
time of economic prosperity, cultural innovation, and social transformation.
However, it also exposed deep inequalities and moral ambiguities. In The
Great Gatsby, Fitzgerald critiques the materialistic interpretation of the
American Dream, where success is equated with wealth and social status.
Gatsby’s relentless pursuit of Daisy and the opulence of his lifestyle
underscore the hollowness of this dream, revealing how it prioritizes
material wealth over moral and emotional fulfillment.
The critique of the Jazz Age’s interpretation of the Dream extends beyond
Gatsby’s personal narrative to a broader societal critique. The novel portrays
a world where traditional values are eroded by consumerism and where the
pursuit of wealth exacerbates class divides, leaving behind a trail of
disillusionment.
The Evolution in Contemporary Literature
In the 21st century, the American Dream has been reinterpreted to reflect
the complexities of a globalized world. Contemporary literature highlights
themes of immigration, survival, and systemic inequality, offering a broader,
more inclusive perspective. Works like American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins
explore the Dream from the vantage point of immigrants striving for safety
and opportunity in an often-hostile environment. The novel underscores the
perilous journey of migrants and the harsh realities they face, questioning
whether the Dream is still attainable for marginalized communities.
Similarly, Colson Whitehead’s The Underground Railroad reimagines
historical realities to critique systemic oppression. The novel depicts the
journey of enslaved individuals seeking freedom, drawing parallels to the
elusive nature of the American Dream for those historically excluded from its
promises. Through its allegorical narrative, the work highlights the
intersection of race, class, and systemic barriers in shaping one’s access to
opportunity.
Recurring Motifs and Themes
Despite their differences, both historical and contemporary depictions of the
American Dream share recurring motifs and themes. Key among these are:
• Disillusionment: Many works reveal the gap between the
promise of the Dream and the lived realities of individuals, particularly
those from marginalized backgrounds.
• Materialism vs. Morality: A persistent critique in literature is the
tension between the pursuit of material wealth and the erosion of
ethical and emotional values.
• Class Stratification: Both historical and modern works
underscore how class divides limit the accessibility of the Dream,
making it a privilege rather than a universal right.

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 • Perseverance and Hope: Despite the critiques, literature often
portrays the resilience of individuals striving to achieve their dreams,
highlighting the enduring allure of the ideal.
The American Dream as a Reflection of Society
Ultimately, the literature surrounding the American Dream serves as a
mirror for society, reflecting its aspirations, flaws, and evolving values. From
the Jazz Age’s critique of materialism to contemporary explorations of
systemic inequality, the Dream remains a powerful cultural construct. It
continues to inspire, challenge, and provoke thought, illustrating the
complex interplay between individual aspiration and societal structures.

METHODOLOGY
This research employs a qualitative and comparative approach to examine
the transformation of the American Dream as depicted in literature across
different time periods. The methodology is designed to provide a
comprehensive analysis of the themes, symbols, and critiques embedded in
the primary texts while situating them within their broader socio-cultural
and historical contexts. By integrating thematic analysis and intertextual
comparison, the study ensures a nuanced understanding of the evolution of
the American Dream.
1. Research Design
The study adopts a two-pronged approach:
1. Thematic Analysis: This method involves identifying and
analyzing recurring motifs, symbols, and themes that reflect the
critique and evolution of the American Dream. The analysis focuses on
key elements such as materialism, disillusionment, morality, and class
stratification as they appear in the primary texts.
2. Comparative Literature Analysis: This approach examines
similarities and differences in the portrayal of the American Dream
between historical and contemporary works. The primary texts
analyzed include F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby as a
representation of the Jazz Age and contemporary works like Jeanine
Cummins’ American Dirt and Colson Whitehead’s The Underground
Railroad, which explore modern perspectives.
2. Selection of Primary Texts
The selection of texts is based on their literary significance and their ability
to encapsulate the evolving dimensions of the American Dream:
• Historical Context: The Great Gatsby is chosen for its critique of
the Jazz Age’s materialistic interpretation of the Dream, highlighting
themes of ambition, class division, and moral decay.

Dr. Wesal Yousef Ali Philip Roth Studies 106

 • Contemporary Perspectives: American Dirt and The
Underground Railroad are selected for their focus on globalization,
immigration, and systemic inequality, reflecting the challenges faced by
marginalized communities in accessing the Dream.
These texts provide a balanced representation of the Dream’s evolution from
its traditional ideals to its modern reinterpretations.
3. Data Collection
The data for this research is collected through:
• Primary Sources: A close reading of the selected literary texts to
identify key themes, symbols, and narrative strategies.
• Secondary Sources: Academic articles, critical essays, and
reviews that provide insights into the socio-cultural contexts of the
texts and their thematic interpretations.
4. Analytical Framework
The analysis is structured around three core themes:
1. Critique of Materialism: Examining how material wealth is
portrayed as both a driving force and a source of disillusionment in the
pursuit of the American Dream.
2. Intersectionality of Identity: Analyzing the role of race, class, and
immigration status in shaping access to the Dream in contemporary
literature.
3. Continuity and Change: Investigating the recurring motifs that
persist across eras while highlighting the transformations in the
Dream’s portrayal due to changing societal dynamics.
5. Justification of Methodology
This qualitative and comparative approach is chosen for its ability to:
• Provide an in-depth exploration of the texts’ literary and thematic
elements.
• Highlight the socio-cultural and historical factors influencing the
evolution of the American Dream.
• Facilitate a nuanced understanding of the Dream’s critique and
reinterpretation across different time periods.
6. Limitations
While this methodology allows for a rich exploration of the selected texts, it
is important to acknowledge potential limitations:
• The study is limited to a small number of texts, which may not capture the
full spectrum of perspectives on the American Dream.
• The analysis relies on existing secondary sources, which may reflect
subjective interpretations of the texts.
7. Ethical Considerations
The research adheres to ethical guidelines by ensuring accurate citation of
all primary and secondary sources. The interpretations presented are

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 original and aim to contribute meaningfully to the academic discourse on the
American Dream in literature.

ANALYSIS AND DISCUSSION

The Jazz Age and The Great Gatsby
F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby stands as a seminal critique of the
American Dream during the Jazz Age, a period characterized by economic
prosperity, cultural exuberance, and the erosion of traditional values.
Through its rich symbolism and intricate narrative, the novel unravels the
complexities of a society where material wealth is conflated with personal
fulfillment, exposing the moral and emotional vacuities that often accompany
such aspirations. (Fitzgerald, 1925). (Cullen, 2003).
Material Wealth and the Illusion of Fulfillment
In The Great Gatsby, Fitzgerald explores the pervasive belief that material
wealth is synonymous with happiness and success. Jay Gatsby, the novel’s
enigmatic protagonist, epitomizes this ideal as he amasses a vast fortune in
an attempt to win back Daisy Buchanan, his lost love. Gatsby’s extravagant
parties, described as dazzling spectacles of indulgence, symbolize the
hedonistic allure of wealth during the Jazz Age. However, these parties, filled
with strangers and superficial connections, also highlight the emptiness of
his pursuits. Despite his wealth, Gatsby remains unfulfilled, as his ultimate
goal—reuniting with Daisy—proves elusive. (Fitzgerald, 1925). (Cullen,
2003).
For example, the novel repeatedly references Gatsby’s opulent mansion and
luxurious possessions, yet these serve only as hollow markers of his social
status rather than genuine sources of joy. This disconnect underscores
Fitzgerald’s critique: material wealth, while outwardly appealing, often fails
to address deeper human desires for love, meaning, and belonging.
The Green Light as a Symbol of Aspiration and Disillusionment
One of the most poignant symbols in the novel is the green light at the end of
Daisy’s dock, which Gatsby gazes at from his own estate across the bay. The
light represents his dream of rekindling his romance with Daisy, as well as
the broader American Dream of achieving one’s aspirations through
determination and effort. However, Fitzgerald imbues the light with a sense
of unattainability, reflecting the futility of chasing an ideal that is perpetually
out of reach.
In one of the novel’s most iconic passages, Nick Carraway, the narrator,
describes Gatsby’s longing:
"He stretched out his arms toward the dark water in a curious way, and,
far as I was from him, I could have sworn he was trembling.

Dr. Wesal Yousef Ali Philip Roth Studies 108

 Involuntarily, I glanced seaward—and distinguished nothing except a
single green light, minute and far away."

This imagery captures the paradox of the American Dream: while it promises
opportunity and success, it often remains an illusion, just beyond one’s
grasp. The green light’s elusiveness mirrors the unattainable nature of
Gatsby’s dream, as well as the broader disillusionment of the Jazz Age.
(Cullen, 2003).
The Valley of Ashes: A Critique of Social Inequality
Another powerful symbol in the novel is the Valley of Ashes, a desolate
wasteland situated between West Egg and New York City. This area,
characterized by gray ash heaps and a pervasive sense of decay, serves as a
stark contrast to the opulence of Gatsby’s parties and the glamour of Daisy’s
world. The Valley represents the plight of the working class, who toil
endlessly in pursuit of the American Dream but are ultimately trapped in a
cycle of poverty and despair.
Fitzgerald uses the characters of George and Myrtle Wilson to illustrate this
social inequality. George, a struggling mechanic, and Myrtle, his ambitious
yet dissatisfied wife, embody the aspirations and frustrations of those who
are marginalized by the Dream. Myrtle’s affair with Tom Buchanan, a
wealthy and callous aristocrat, underscores the exploitation and power
imbalances inherent in their relationship. Ultimately, the tragic fates of both
Myrtle and Gatsby serve as a critique of a society that prioritizes wealth and
status over morality and human connection.
Moral Decay Beneath the Glamour
The Jazz Age, often celebrated for its vibrancy and cultural innovation, is
portrayed in The Great Gatsby as a period of moral decay. The characters’
lives are marked by superficiality, betrayal, and selfishness, reflecting a
society consumed by materialism. Tom and Daisy Buchanan epitomize this
moral emptiness, living in a bubble of privilege and carelessness. Their lack
of accountability is evident in Daisy’s indifference to Gatsby’s death and
Tom’s casual manipulation of those around him. (Fitzgerald, 1925). (Cullen,
2003).
For instance, Nick observes:
"They were careless people, Tom and Daisy—they smashed up things
and creatures and then retreated back into their money or their vast
carelessness, or whatever it was that kept them together, and let other
people clean up the mess they had made."

This critique extends beyond individual characters to encompass the

broader societal values of the Jazz Age, questioning the cost of prioritizing
wealth and pleasure over ethical and emotional integrity. (Cullen, 2003).

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 Transition to the Contemporary Era
As societal dynamics have shifted in the 21st century, the American Dream
has been reframed to reflect the complexities of globalization, immigration,
and technological advancement. Contemporary literature interrogates this
evolving dream, exploring its implications for marginalized communities and
its intersection with systemic inequality. Works like American Dirt by
Jeanine Cummins and The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead bring
fresh critiques, portraying the Dream as a survival mechanism and a tool of
resistance against oppression. (Cummins, 2020). (Whitehead, 2016).
(Lundberg & Scapp, 2018).
Globalization and the Struggles of Immigration: American Dirt (Cummins,
2020).
Jeanine Cummins’ American Dirt highlights the experiences of immigrants
who seek safety and opportunity in the United States, showcasing the
American Dream as both a beacon of hope and a site of profound struggle.
The novel follows Lydia Quixano Pérez, a Mexican bookstore owner, and her
son, Luca, as they flee cartel violence and undertake a harrowing journey
toward the U.S.-Mexico border. (Cummins, 2020).
1. The American Dream as Survival: For Lydia and Luca, the Dream is not
about wealth or upward mobility; it is a matter of survival. Their journey is
driven by the hope of finding safety and a future free from violence. This
reframing of the Dream underscores its universality while emphasizing the
unique challenges faced by immigrants.
For example, Lydia’s desperate efforts to shield Luca from the brutality of
their journey reveal the sacrifices that individuals make in pursuit of a better
life. The novel portrays the Dream as both inspiring and inaccessible, given
the immense risks and barriers that migrants face.
2. Critique of Barriers and Inequality: The novel also critiques systemic
barriers that complicate the pursuit of the Dream. From the treacherous
crossing of La Bestia, the freight train used by migrants, to the hostility of
immigration policies, American Dirt exposes the structural inequities that
disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. Through Lydia’s story, the
novel questions whether the American Dream is attainable for those who are
excluded from its promises. (Cummins, 2020).
Resistance and the Legacy of Oppression: The Underground Railroad
(Whitehead, 2016).
Colson Whitehead’s The Underground Railroad reimagines the historical
realities of slavery through an allegorical lens, portraying the American
Dream as a form of resistance and liberation. The novel follows Cora, an
enslaved woman, as she escapes a plantation and navigates a fictionalized
underground railroad, which Whitehead transforms into a literal network of
trains and stations. (Whitehead, 2016).

Dr. Wesal Yousef Ali Philip Roth Studies 110

 1. The American Dream as Liberation: For Cora, the pursuit of freedom
represents a version of the American Dream that contrasts sharply with the
traditional narrative of upward mobility. Her journey underscores the
resilience and agency of those who, historically, have been denied the
opportunity to dream. Whitehead uses Cora’s story to challenge the notion
that the Dream is inherently accessible, highlighting how systemic
oppression limits its reach.
For example, each station on Cora’s journey reveals a different facet of
America’s historical injustices, from eugenics to violent racism. These
episodes serve as powerful critiques of the barriers that persist in modern
society, connecting past and present struggles for equality and justice.
2. Symbolism of the Railroad: The underground railroad itself symbolizes
resistance against an oppressive system. It represents the collective efforts
of individuals who risk everything to fight for freedom and dignity. Through
this allegory, Whitehead redefines the American Dream as a collective
struggle rather than an individual pursuit, emphasizing the power of
community and solidarity.
Recurring Themes in Contemporary Depictions
Despite their different contexts, American Dirt and The Underground
Railroad share several recurring themes in their portrayal of the American
Dream: (Cummins, 2020). (Whitehead, 2016).
1. Survival and Resilience: Both novels depict the Dream as a mechanism for
survival in the face of adversity. Lydia’s flight from violence and Cora’s
escape from slavery highlight the resilience required to pursue even the
most basic aspirations.
2. Barriers to Equality: Both works critique the systemic inequities that limit
access to the Dream, from immigration policies to the legacy of racial
oppression. These barriers challenge the notion of the Dream as universally
attainable.
3. Hope and Perseverance: Despite their critiques, both novels celebrate the
enduring hope and determination of their protagonists. Lydia’s love for her
son and Cora’s refusal to give up her quest for freedom exemplify the human
capacity to dream, even in the direst circumstances.
Recurring Themes Across Periods
Despite the changing societal contexts, certain recurring themes have
persisted in the portrayal of the American Dream in literature, linking its
historical and contemporary representations. These themes—
disillusionment, the tension between materialism and moral values, and
class stratification—serve as enduring critiques of the Dream, highlighting
its complexities and contradictions.
1. Disillusionment: The Gap Between Aspiration and Reality

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 Disillusionment is a central theme that recurs in both historical and modern
portrayals of the American Dream. Literature often explores the disparity
between the lofty ideals of the Dream and the harsh realities faced by
individuals striving to achieve it.
In The Great Gatsby:
Fitzgerald masterfully illustrates disillusionment through Jay Gatsby, whose
relentless pursuit of Daisy Buchanan and the material wealth he believes will
win her love ends in tragedy. The green light, symbolizing Gatsby's
aspirations, remains perpetually out of reach, reflecting the unattainability of
his dream. Gatsby’s eventual demise underscores the futility of his pursuits
and serves as a broader critique of the hollowness of the Jazz Age’s
materialistic values. (Fitzgerald, 1925). (Cullen, 2003).
In American Dirt:
Jeanine Cummins offers a contemporary perspective on disillusionment by
portraying the harrowing journey of migrants like Lydia and Luca. Their
pursuit of safety and opportunity is fraught with danger and systemic
obstacles, challenging the notion that the United States offers a universal
haven for success. The stark realities of border crossings, violence, and
xenophobia dismantle the idealized vision of the American Dream for
immigrants. (Cummins, 2020).
In The Underground Railroad:
Colson Whitehead reimagines disillusionment in a historical context,
showing how systemic oppression strips marginalized individuals of even
the most basic opportunities. Cora’s journey, fraught with danger and
betrayal, highlights the persistent denial of the Dream to enslaved people
and their descendants, presenting freedom itself as an elusive aspiration.
(Whitehead, 2016).
2. Materialism vs. Moral Values: The Corruption of Aspirations
Another enduring theme is the conflict between material wealth and ethical
or emotional fulfillment. Many works critique the prioritization of material
success over moral integrity and human connection.
In The Great Gatsby:
The characters in Fitzgerald’s novel, particularly Tom and Daisy Buchanan,
epitomize the moral decay that accompanies excessive wealth. Tom’s
infidelity and Daisy’s recklessness reveal how privilege fosters selfishness
and a disregard for others. Even Gatsby, despite his romantic idealism, is
complicit in the corruption of the Dream, as his wealth is derived from
dubious sources. This tension is encapsulated in the Valley of Ashes, a
desolate landscape that symbolizesType theyour
moral
text and environmental costs of
materialism. (Fitzgerald, 1925).
In American Dirt:

Dr. Wesal Yousef Ali Philip Roth Studies 112

 The contrast between material aspirations and moral struggles is evident in
Lydia’s decisions as she tries to protect her son. While she dreams of safety
and a better life in America, the sacrifices she makes along the way—
enduring physical danger, loss, and moral compromises—illustrate the
human cost of survival-driven aspirations. The novel questions whether the
pursuit of the Dream is worth the ethical and emotional toll it often
demands. (Cummins, 2020).
In The Underground Railroad:
Whitehead critiques the commodification of human lives under slavery,
where material wealth is built on the dehumanization of others. The
plantation system starkly contrasts the ideals of the American Dream with
the brutal realities of exploitation. Cora’s journey highlights the resistance to
such systemic corruption, positioning moral values and the quest for dignity
above material gain. (Whitehead, 2016).
3. Class Stratification: The Persistence of Inequality
Class stratification is a recurring theme that underscores the structural
barriers preventing equal access to the American Dream. Both historical and
contemporary works reveal how societal hierarchies perpetuate inequality
and limit opportunities for upward mobility.
In The Great Gatsby:
Fitzgerald’s critique of class stratification is evident in the divide between
West Egg and East Egg. West Egg, home to Gatsby and other "new money"
individuals, contrasts sharply with East Egg, where "old money" elites like
Tom and Daisy reside. This geographical and social division highlights the
rigidity of class boundaries and the exclusionary nature of the Dream, where
even immense wealth cannot buy acceptance into the upper echelons of
society. (Fitzgerald, 1925).
In American Dirt:
Class stratification takes on a global dimension as Cummins depicts the
plight of migrants who are marginalized not only by their socioeconomic
status but also by systemic inequities in immigration policies. Lydia’s
journey underscores the contrast between her modest origins in Mexico and
the privilege of those who enjoy the Dream without barriers. This disparity
questions the fairness of a system that claims to offer equal opportunities.
(Cummins, 2020).
In The Underground Railroad:
Whitehead’s depiction of class stratification is deeply tied to race, showing
how systemic oppression ensures that certain groups remain excluded from
the Dream. The novel reveals how the legacy of slavery entrenches
hierarchies that persist even after emancipation, making true equality an
ongoing struggle. (Whitehead, 2016).

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 FINDINGS
The Jazz Age: Materialism and Disillusionment (Cullen, 2003).
• Critique of Materialism: In The Great Gatsby, Fitzgerald portrays
the Jazz Age as a period of opulence and moral decay. The characters’
relentless pursuit of wealth, symbolized by Gatsby’s mansion and lavish
parties, underscores the conflation of material success with personal
fulfillment. However, the hollowness of these pursuits leads to
profound disillusionment, revealing the Dream’s failure to deliver
genuine happiness. (Fitzgerald, 1925). (Cullen, 2003).
• Symbolism and Themes: The green light represents unattainable
aspirations, while the Valley of Ashes serves as a stark reminder of the
socio-economic inequalities perpetuated by the Dream. These symbols
highlight the inherent contradictions within the ideal, suggesting that
the Dream’s promises are often exclusive and unattainable for many.
Contemporary Perspectives: Survival, Resistance, and Inequality
• Immigration and Survival: In American Dirt, the Dream is
reframed as a survival mechanism for marginalized communities.
Lydia’s journey reflects the immense sacrifices and systemic barriers
faced by immigrants striving for safety and opportunity. The novel
critiques the inequities in immigration policies and the dangers
migrants endure, questioning the accessibility of the Dream in a
globalized world. (Cummins, 2020).
• Resistance Against Oppression: The Underground Railroad
redefines the Dream as an act of resistance against systemic injustice.
Cora’s journey represents the pursuit of freedom and dignity in the face
of oppression. The literal underground railroad serves as a powerful
symbol of collective struggle, emphasizing the role of community in
achieving liberation. (Whitehead, 2016).
• Globalization and Inequality: Both contemporary works
highlight how globalization and systemic inequality shape modern
interpretations of the Dream. They underscore the barriers faced by
marginalized groups, illustrating the exclusivity of the ideal for those
outside privileged societal structures. (Lundberg & Scapp, 2018).
Recurring Themes Across Periods
• Disillusionment: A consistent theme in all works is the gap
between the promise of the American Dream and the lived experiences
of those pursuing it. This disillusionment is particularly evident in the
fates of Gatsby, Lydia, and Cora, whose aspirations are thwarted by
systemic and personal obstacles.
• Materialism vs. Moral Values: The tension between material
wealth and moral integrity persists across eras. While the Jazz Age

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 critiques the moral decay caused by materialism, contemporary works
emphasize the ethical compromises and emotional tolls involved in
survival-driven pursuits. (Cullen, 2003).
• Class Stratification: Both historical and modern texts highlight
class divisions as a significant barrier to achieving the Dream. In The
Great Gatsby, this is symbolized by the divide between East Egg and
West Egg, while in American Dirt and The Underground Railroad,
systemic inequities reflect the persistent stratification that limits access
to opportunities. (Fitzgerald, 1925). (Cummins, 2020). (Whitehead,
2016).
Evolution of the American Dream
• The findings suggest that the American Dream has evolved from
an ideal centered on wealth and upward mobility to a broader, more
nuanced construct shaped by survival, resistance, and critique of
societal inequalities.
• While historical depictions focus on materialism and its moral
implications, contemporary portrayals expand the narrative to include
the struggles of marginalized communities, highlighting issues of
immigration, race, and systemic oppression.

CONCLUSION
The American Dream, a cornerstone of American identity, has undergone
profound transformation in its portrayal across literature. From its origins as
an ideal of opportunity and success rooted in hard work, it has evolved into a
nuanced critique of societal inequalities, reflecting the complexities of a
rapidly changing world. Through the lens of literature, this research has
explored how the Dream encapsulates both the aspirations and
disillusionments of individuals and communities across time.
In The Great Gatsby, F. Scott Fitzgerald critiques the Jazz Age’s materialistic
interpretation of the Dream, exposing its moral decay and the inherent
tension between wealth and fulfillment. The novel highlights the gap
between aspiration and reality, illustrating how the Dream often remains
unattainable for those outside the privileged elite. Symbols like the green
light and the Valley of Ashes serve as timeless reminders of the Dream’s
allure and its contradictions.
Contemporary works such as American Dirt and The Underground Railroad
extend this critique to modern contexts, addressing themes of immigration,
globalization, and systemic inequality. These texts highlight the resilience
and sacrifices of marginalized individuals striving for survival and dignity. At
the same time, they expose the barriers that persist in accessing the Dream,
emphasizing its exclusivity and the toll it exacts on those who pursue it.

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 Across periods, recurring themes of disillusionment, materialism versus
morality, and class stratification serve as unifying threads, underscoring the
enduring challenges and inequities tied to the Dream. While the contexts and
narratives vary, these works collectively reveal the American Dream as a
dynamic and contested ideal that mirrors the societal values and struggles of
its time.
This research demonstrates the American Dream’s dual nature: it is both an
inspiring vision of possibility and a mirror reflecting systemic flaws. Its
portrayal in literature continues to shape and redefine cultural discourse,
offering insights into the evolving aspirations and realities of American life.
By engaging with these texts, we gain a deeper understanding of the Dream’s
enduring complexity and its profound impact on the individual and collective
psyche. Ultimately, the American Dream remains a powerful and
multifaceted cultural construct, inviting reflection on its promises,
limitations, and significance in an ever-changing world.

REFERENCES
Bruccoli, M. J. (2002). Some Sort of Epic Grandeur: The Life of F. Scott Fitzgerald. Columbia,
SC: University of South Carolina Press.
An analysis of Fitzgerald’s life and how it shaped his critique of the American Dream.
Cummins, J. (2020). American Dirt. New York: Flatiron Books.
A contemporary exploration of immigration and survival as facets of the American Dream.
Cullen, J. (2003). The American Dream: A Short History of an Idea that Shaped a Nation. New
York: Oxford University Press.
Provides a historical overview of the American Dream and its evolution.
Fitzgerald, F. S. (1925). The Great Gatsby. New York: Charles Scribner’s Sons.
A critical examination of the Jazz Age and the American Dream’s materialistic
interpretation.
Kroes, R. (1996). If You've Seen One, You've Seen the Mall: Europeans and American Mass
Culture. Urbana: University of Illinois Press.
Contextualizes the cultural dynamics of the American Dream in the Jazz Age.
Lundberg, D. E., & Scapp, R. (2018). Dreaming of America: Immigration and the American
Dream in Contemporary Literature. American Studies Journal, 62, 45–62.
Examines modern literature’s engagement with the American Dream in the context of
immigration.
Monteiro, J. (2020). Hope and disillusionment in the American Dream: Reflections from
fictional narratives. Journal of American Studies, 54(3), 312-328.
A critical analysis of hope and despair in literature addressing the American Dream.
Trachtenberg, A. (2007). The Incorporation of America: Culture and Society in the Gilded
Age. New York: Hill and Wang.
Explores societal changes and their impact on the American Dream.
Tyson, L. (2006). Critical Theory Today: A User-Friendly Guide. New York: Routledge.

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Discusses various literary theories, including Marxism and its relevance to themes like class
stratification.
Whitehead, C. (2016). The Underground Railroad. New York: Doubleday.
A reimagined narrative of slavery that critiques systemic oppression and redefines the
American Dream.

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