Answer:
In F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel "The Great Gatsby," the eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg are a recurring symbol that represents the concept of the "gaze" or the "watchful eyes of God" that seem to be observing and judging the characters and events in the story.
Doctor T.J. Eckleburg's eyes are depicted on a billboard in the Valley of Ashes, a desolate industrial area between West Egg and New York City. These eyes are described as enormous, bespectacled, and unblinking, giving them a haunting and ominous quality. They overlook the valley and its bleak landscape.
The symbolism of the eyes can be interpreted in several ways:
Moral and Ethical Decay: The eyes can be seen as a symbol of moral and ethical decay in society, particularly among the wealthy characters in the novel. They serve as a reminder that despite their opulence and extravagance, there is a moral emptiness and corruption at the heart of their lives.
Lack of Privacy: The eyes suggest a lack of privacy and a sense of being constantly observed and judged. This idea aligns with the theme of surveillance and the loss of personal freedom in a society where social norms and appearances are highly scrutinized.
The Unattainable American Dream: The eyes can also symbolize the unattainable American Dream that many characters in the novel chase. They are a distant and unapproachable symbol of success and prosperity that eludes the characters.
The Illusion of God: Some interpretations suggest that the eyes represent the illusory presence of God or a higher power. They watch over the characters but do not intervene in their lives, highlighting the idea that the characters are ultimately responsible for their own actions and consequences.
Step-by-step explanation: