How is the character of Gatsby described in the novel?

Gatsby is not afraid to show off his success and can hide his past behind his large mansion and unknown identity. He regularly throws lavish parties where his guests make use of his grand facilities and enjoy the thought that has gone into them. Nick, who watches the preparation for these parties, is finally invited. He describes the luxurious features of Gatsby’s house and reports the behavior of the guests.

“Sometimes they came and went without having met Gatsby at all, came for the party with a simplicity of heart that was its own ticket of admission.”

Nick realizes that he was the only one that was officially invited to the party. The rest were strangers who Gatsby did not know, and they had possibly never heard of Gatsby either. They all attended the party for a good time, and Gatsby was willing to host such an event for status. This highlights the shallowness of the American dream and the attitude of the upper class in the 1920’s. More importantly, Gatsby hosts these parties in the hope that Daisy Buchannan, who he has not seen in five years, will attend.

The character of Gatsby appears to be quite contradictive. Despite Gatsby’s wealth and status, he lacks a secure relationship with loved ones. He has limited contact with family and doesn’t have a lot of allies. This creates irony within the character of Gatsby as although his large celebrations are filled with hundreds of people; he isn’t very popular. However, there is a significance to his parties. Gatsby has transformed his life to win over Daisy Buchannan who was his first love. Daisy comes from East Egg and is married into a very wealthy family. Gatsby tries to compete for Daisy by impressing her with his flamboyant house and expensive items. This is made clear when Gatsby invites Daisy to his house.