Materialism and Idealism in The Great Gatsby The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald is a novel which deals with the quest for wealth and power in society, in order for Gatsby's happiness to be fulfilled . The main character Jay Gatsby believes that if he achieves his financial goals that it would lead to his happiness and a better life. In his mind money equals happiness. Jay Gatsby believes in a sort of an American dream, that money equals happiness. To him being successful, having lots of money and every material object imaginable will fulfill the entire American dream, and result in acquiring the woman he loves. The true American dream describes a way of living that is full of hope and