Abstract

The paper focuses on analyzing the metaphorical meaning in Fitzgerald’s novel The Great Gatsby to show the characters’ personality and fate, and indicating social contradictions and class structure of America in 1920s. The paper is constituted of two parts. The first part suggests the metaphorical meaning of the houses are implication of the corrupted American Dream. At first, this part gives a brief introduction to the American Dream, and then describes Gatsby's mansion as a castle. Next, the thesis proves that extreme selfish materialist, represented by Tom, is the real owner of the American Dream.

The second deals with the metaphorical meaning of the females’ cages. This part begins with introducing historical background of Jazz Age and women’s living state. For Daisy, the house is equal to golden traps to control her freedom and thought. And for Myrtle who is motivated by vanity, the house means prison of death.

Key Words: metaphor; house; the American Dream; female; cage

Contents

Abstract

摘要

1. Introduction-1

2. Literature Review-1

2.1 Metaphor-1

2.2 The history of study on The Great Gatsby-3

3. The metaphorical meaning of the house-4

3.1 Metaphor of the American Dream-4

3.2 Metaphor of females’ cages-9

4. Conclusion- 12

Works Cited-14