In the novel The Great Gatsby, F. Scott Fitzgerald uses scenes of violence to criticize the socio-economic system of early 19th century America century. In these scenes, Fitzgerald uses his characters as literary tools to express the inequality surrounding gender roles and social class. Fitzgerald exposes the gender bias in this society by using male characters who disrespect women. When Tom tells Myrtle that she is “not allowed to mention Daisy’s name,” he breaks her nose “with his open hand” (37). Through his actions, Tom communicates that Myrtle is worth little more to him than an object. Fitzgerald suggests that women of this era have no value other than that of a commodity from which profit can be made. He castigates the accepted precedent that men avoid repercussions for their cruelty towards women. While Tom and Gatsby argue about Daisy at the hotel, Tom claims that Daisy "has stupid ideas" and "doesn't know what she's doing" (132). Forbidding Daisy from speaking for herself objectifies her, illuminating the view of women as lesser human beings. Fitzgerald suggests the ignorance of men in this era, as they do not realize that their view of women is biased. The reliance on overwhelming male dominance indicates Fitzgerald's desire to emphasize the issue of gender roles. Say no to plagiarism. Get Custom Essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”?Get Original EssayFitzgerald illustrates the discrimination of those of lower social status through characters belonging to different ranks in society. During Tom and Gatsby's argument at the hotel, Tom calls the latter "Mr. Nobody" and a "common crook" (130.134). Due to Gatsby's lowly position, Tom views him as inferior. Through Tom's humiliating tone, Fitzgerald indicates men's disgust for those beneath them. Although Daisy is responsible for Myrtle's murder, Gatsby admits that he will take responsibility for the incident (144). Fitzgerald expresses unjust forgiveness for the punishments that people from the upper classes receive, often at the expense of those from the lower classes. This treatment results in an unfair system that disempowers those who lack the means to prevent unfair behavior. Because George Wilson believes that Gatsby is his wife's murderer, he shoots Gatsby, then commits suicide (162). Fitzgerald reveals the despair of those of lowly status; between economic deprivation and loss, there is no other way out of misery than death. Through Wilson's inability to climb the social ladder, Fitzgerald affirms the falsity of the American dream. The rich profit from the hard work of their inferiors while the poor struggle to prosper. Fitzgerald accentuates the disparity in socio-economic rank that exists between the characters in his novel. The harsh actions and biased behavior of social superiors reveal their hostility towards those below them..