In F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby, the examination of the conflict between old money and new money occurs over and over. During the 1920's, the traditional American Dream was being corrupted by relaxed social values and a booming economy. The main character, Jay Gatsby, is the personification of new money, acquired through his own effort--much of it shady--rather than inherited. On the surface, Gatsby's lavish display of his new wealth seems ostentatious and careless, especially compared to the more tasteful and elegant trappings of the old wealth. Prime examples of the characteristics of old wealth are Daisy and Tom Buchanan, who are part of the established aristocracy. Ironically, at the core of Gatsby's criminal pursuit of his dream is a sensitive loving heart, whereas in contrast, the Buchanans, who seem so civilized and proper, are in fact self-centered, superficial and heartless.

To the Buchanans and the other...