Did Gatsby inherit money from Cody? This question has intrigued readers of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel, The Great Gatsby, for generations. While the answer to this question is not explicitly stated in the text, there are several clues and interpretations that can shed light on this intriguing topic.
The Great Gatsby, published in 1925, is a novel that explores the themes of wealth, class, and the American Dream. The protagonist, Jay Gatsby, is portrayed as a mysterious and enigmatic character whose wealth and lavish lifestyle are the subject of much speculation. Gatsby’s origins are never fully explained, and this lack of information has led to much debate among readers and scholars.
One theory suggests that Gatsby may have inherited his fortune from George Wilson, the owner of a garage in which Gatsby worked. However, this theory is not widely accepted, as it does not fully explain the origins of Gatsby’s wealth. Another theory posits that Gatsby may have inherited money from a relative or friend, but again, no specific name is mentioned.
The most popular theory, and the one that has garnered the most attention, is that Gatsby inherited his fortune from Jordan Baker, a professional golfer and the narrator’s cousin. According to this theory, Jordan’s father, Mr. Baker, was a wealthy oil man who had a falling out with his son over money. It is believed that Jordan’s father left a substantial inheritance to her, which she then passed on to Gatsby. This theory is supported by the fact that Jordan Baker is depicted as having a strong sense of loyalty to Gatsby, and she is the only character in the novel who is aware of his true identity.
However, there is another theory that suggests that Gatsby may have inherited his fortune from a man named Cody. This theory is based on a passage in the novel where Gatsby is described as having “a great deal of money.” The name “Cody” is mentioned in this context, leading some readers to believe that Gatsby inherited his wealth from this individual.
While the evidence for this theory is limited, it is an interesting possibility that has been discussed by readers and scholars alike. If Gatsby did inherit money from Cody, it would provide a more plausible explanation for his sudden wealth and lavish lifestyle. It would also add a new layer of complexity to the character of Gatsby, as it would suggest that he had a more sinister motivation for pursuing his American Dream.
In conclusion, while the question of whether Gatsby inherited money from Cody remains unanswered, it is an intriguing topic that has sparked much debate among readers of The Great Gatsby. Whether Gatsby’s wealth came from Jordan Baker, a relative, or an unknown source like Cody, the novel’s enigmatic protagonist continues to captivate readers and provoke thought about the nature of wealth and the American Dream.
