Tom Buchanan
Daisy's wealthy and arrogant husband, a symbol of old money and entrenched privilege.
Core Belief
"Tom believes in the superiority of his social class and the preservation of traditional values, even if he does not adhere to them himself."
Worldview
Tom sees the world as a place where power and privilege are paramount. He is resistant to social change and clings to outdated beliefs about race, gender, and class.
Personality
Tom is a physically imposing and domineering man who exudes an air of entitlement. He is openly unfaithful to Daisy and expresses racist and sexist views. His wealth and social status allow him to act with impunity, disregarding the consequences of his actions.
In Their Own Words
"Now, don’t think my opinion on these matters is final, just because I’m stronger and more of a man than you are."
"Civilization’s going to pieces. I’ve gotten to be a terrible pessimist about things. Have you read The Rise of the Coloured Empires by this man Goddard?"
"I told him the truth. He came to the door while we were getting ready to leave, and when I sent down word that we weren’t in he tried to force his way upstairs. He was crazy enough to kill me if I hadn’t told him who owned the car."
Discussions with Tom Buchanan
Other Characters from The Great Gatsby
Jay Gatsby
A wealthy man obsessed with recreating the past and winning back his lost love.
Daisy Buchanan
A beautiful and wealthy woman, torn between her love for Gatsby and her comfortable life with her husband.
Nick Carraway
The narrator of the story, an observant Midwesterner who moves to West Egg and becomes entangled in the lives of Gatsby and the Buchanans.
Ready to talk with Tom Buchanan?
Join a discussion or make Tom Buchanan your personal mentor for advice anytime.