The dynamics of power and control in relationships are central themes in both John Wilmot’s “A Song (Absent from Thee)” and F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby.” While separated by centuries, both works offer insights into societal expectations and the complexities of love, lust, and manipulation. This essay will explore the portrayal of male dominance and female agency in both texts, examining how these themes intersect and diverge.
Male Dominance in “A Song” and “The Great Gatsby”
In Wilmot’s poem, the male speaker embodies the dominant societal norms of the 17th century. He openly admits to seeking solace in the arms of his lover only when “wearied with a world of woe,” suggesting a transactional view of the relationship where the woman serves as a haven for his emotional exhaustion. The repetition of the “w” sound emphasizes the weariness he feels towards other women, reinforcing the idea that his lover is merely a safe fallback.
Similarly, Tom Buchanan in “The Great Gatsby” exemplifies male dominance in the context of 1920s America. His possessive treatment of Myrtle Wilson, referring to her as “my girl” and parading her in public only to abandon her at a table, highlights his objectification of her and lack of genuine care. This behavior reflects the lingering patriarchal attitudes of the time, even amidst the burgeoning liberation movement. Tom’s eventual return to Daisy further reinforces the notion of the wife as a safe and dependable haven after indulging in extramarital affairs.
A depiction of the complex relationship between Tom and Myrtle in a film adaptation of “The Great Gatsby”.
Female Agency and Manipulation
While male dominance is prominent in both works, “The Great Gatsby” provides a more nuanced exploration of female agency and manipulation. Myrtle, despite being objectified by Tom, actively seeks social elevation through the affair, demonstrating a calculated use of Tom for her own ambitions. Her disdain for her husband’s lower social standing and her flamboyant behavior in the New York apartment reveal her desire to access a world beyond her reach.
Daisy Buchanan, however, represents a more subtle form of manipulation. Symbolized by the green light, she holds an irresistible allure for Gatsby, who is “possessed” by his love for her. Daisy’s seemingly innocent requests for fun and her quick dismissal of Gatsby when he deviates from her desires showcase her power over him. Ultimately, it is Gatsby who suffers the consequences of their affair, while Daisy retreats to the security of her marriage. This mirrors the destructive allure of the female figure in Keats’ “La Belle Dame sans Merci,” where the woman’s enchantment leads to the knight’s demise.
The iconic green light, symbolizing Gatsby’s yearning for Daisy, visually represents her elusive nature and power over him.
Conclusion
Both “A Song (Absent from Thee)” and “The Great Gatsby” offer compelling portrayals of the power dynamics in relationships. While Wilmot’s poem focuses on male dominance as a societal norm, Fitzgerald’s novel delves deeper into the complexities of female agency and manipulation alongside male control. By examining the actions and motivations of both male and female characters, “The Great Gatsby” presents a more multifaceted view of love, power, and the enduring influence of societal expectations. The destructive consequences for both men and women caught in these webs of power highlight the timeless relevance of these themes.
