Fitzgeralds Theme on the American Dream

As Fitzgerald saw it (and as Nick explains in Chapter IX), the American dream was originally about discovery, individualism, and the pursuit of happiness. Throughout the novel he describes Gatsby’s creative passion in his own self creation and his quest for Daisy. Gatsby is “great” because he pursues an ideal.  In the novel, however, this dream has been corrupted.

What are Fitzgerald’s major themes regarding the AmericanDream? What is he saying about wealth, materialism and happiness?   How does he use literary elements to get his theme across? (characterization, setting, symbol, imagery, etc.)   You might want to consider the meaning of East/West Symbols (the green light, the Valley of Ashes, the eyes of T.J. Eckleburg) Money, both old and new Social Class