Tom Buchanan

Also known as Mr. Buchanan

Major
First seen · Book 1

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

Gender: male
First appears: Book 1
Books: 1

Description

Tom Buchanan is a sturdy man of thirty with straw-colored hair and a hard mouth. His shining arrogant eyes dominate his face, giving him the appearance of always leaning aggressively forward. He possesses an enormous, muscular body with a great pack of muscle, thick and hulking, capable of enormous leverage, which strains his glistening riding boots and thin coat. His broad hands and powerful frame are evident in his alert, aggressive movements, often seen on horseback or in riding attire.

Connections

Family & partnersFriends & mentorsRivals

Daisy Buchananhusband and wife
Married couple with a daughter; strained by Tom's infidelity, but they conspire together at the end.
Myrtle Wilsonmistress
Tom's affair; takes Nick to meet her, hosts party at her apartment; violently breaks her nose when she mentions Daisy.
Nick Carrawaycollege acquaintance
Knew each other at New Haven; Nick visits them, and Tom later takes Nick to meet his mistress.
George Wilsoncustomer
Tom promises to sell him a car; later tells Wilson Gatsby owns the car that killed Myrtle.
Jay Gatsbyrival for Daisy
Tom exposes Gatsby's bootlegging; confrontation at Plaza Hotel reveals Tom's contempt and Gatsby's desperation.