Jay Gatsby

Also known as Gatsby, Jimmy

Major
First seen · Book 1

Jay Gatsby is a major character in The Great Gatsby (Book 1).

Gender: male
Age: early 30s (implied adult with past at 17)
First appears: Book 1
Books: 1

Description

Jay Gatsby appears as a handsome thirty-two-year-old man with attractively tanned skin pulled tight across his face and short hair that looks freshly trimmed daily. His body is fit and brown from youthful labor, moving with a peculiarly American resourcefulness and grace, never quite still as he taps his foot or fidgets with his hands. He often wears formal yet vibrant clothing such as a white flannel suit with a silver shirt and gold tie or a bright pink suit. His face is characterized by a radiant smile that seems to understand and believe in the best of others, though it can shift to a tragic or reproachful expression with tired, bright eyes.

Connections

Family & partnersFriends & mentorsRivals

Daisy Buchananpast lover and obsession
Pre-war romance; Gatsby buys house to be near her, reunites through Nick; central plot driver.
HC
Henry C. Gatzfather
Gatz proud of son's success; attends funeral, shows childhood schedule demonstrating Gatsby's ambition.
Nick Carrawayneighbor and confidant
Nick narrates Gatsby's story with admiration; Gatsby invites Nick to parties and asks him to arrange Daisy meeting.
Dan Codyemployer and patron
Cody's yacht crew for five years; Gatsby inherits education and lifestyle from him, though not money.
MW
Meyer Wolfshiembusiness associate
Wolfshiem fixed 1919 World Series; Gatsby's shady business partner; refuses to attend Gatsby's funeral.
Tom Buchananrival for Daisy
Tom exposes Gatsby's bootlegging; confrontation at Plaza Hotel reveals Tom's contempt and Gatsby's desperation.