his possession, his wife.In addition, Tom demonstrates control over Myrtle when the issue of whether she has the right to mention Daisy's name out loud. During the heated argument, Myrtle attempts to assert power and control by stating "Daisy! Daisy! Daisy! I'll say it whenever I want to." (41) In order to regain control over the situation Tom breaks her nose with his open hand. Although it may seem as though Tom is defending his wife, in reality I feel that this is merely Tom's way of instilling fear into Myrtle as a device for maintaining his control over the situation and his mistress.Gatsby also attempts to demonstrate control over Daisy. For example, Gatsby takes it upon himself to inform Tom of Daisy's love for him. Gatsby states, "Daisy's leaving you." (140). In this situation, I feel that Gatsby is forcing Daisy to openly declare her feelings even though it may not have been her intention or wish to do so at the time. By doing this, Gatsby is hoping to fully regain a future with Daisy and therefore be in control of her feelings.Through analysis of the male characters it became evident that during this time period it was acceptable for men to have extra-marital affairs. For example, it was a well-known fact that Tom had a mistress, Myrtle. Early in the novel this is conveyed through a conversation between Jordan and Nick. "You mean to say you don't know?" said Jordan honestly surprised. "I thought everyone knew... Tom's got some woman in New York: (19). In addition, there is reference to an affair Tom had with a hotel chambermaid at the beginning of his marriage to Daisy. Eventually the affair became public following a car accident in which the woman was injured.The novel goes on to convey the notion that although it is socially acceptable for men to have extra-marital affairs during this time period, it was unacceptable for woman to do so. This becomes evident when Tom declares "I suppose the latest thing is to sit ...
