Why are Myrtle Wilson’s eyes “wide with jealous terror” in Chapter 7 of The Great Gatsby?
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
In Chapter 7 of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby, Myrtle Wilson’s eyes are described as “wide with jealous terror” during a pivotal confrontation between Tom Buchanan and Gatsby, which underscores her emotional turmoil and desperation in the face of her precarious situation. This moment occurs at the Plaza Hotel, where the tension escalates dramatically. Myrtle, who is having an affair with Tom, is acutely aware of her position as an outsider in Tom’s life, feeling both threatened and insecure about her status.
Myrtle’s jealousy is fueled by her recognition that she is merely a mistress to Tom, who is married to Daisy Buchanan. This realization becomes more pronounced as Tom and Gatsby confront each other, and the emotional stakes rise. The “terror” in Myrtle’s eyes reflects her anxiety about losing Tom’s affection and the stability she craves. Her desire to elevate herself from her lower-class existence as the wife of George Wilson—a struggling garage owner—to a more glamorous life is evident. She seeks validation and security through Tom, yet she is constantly reminded of the societal barriers between them.
Moreover, the description of her eyes also symbolizes her vulnerability. Myrtle’s dreams of wealth and a better life through her affair are increasingly threatened, leading to her feelings of jealousy as she sees Gatsby—a man she perceives as a rival—standing in the way of her aspirations. This emotional response foreshadows the tragic events that follow, particularly her violent death later in the chapter, which serves as a stark commentary on the unattainable nature of the American Dream and the destructive consequences of obsession and desire. In this context, Myrtle’s “jealous terror” captures her internal conflict and the intense emotions that drive the narrative forward.