What makes a novel a candidate for the great American novel?

The themes. It has themes like the pursuit of the American Dream, love, and the hollowness of the wealthy. These themes are deeply rooted in the American experience. For example, Gatsby's pursuit of Daisy is not just about a woman, but also about attaining a status symbol which was a part of the American Dream at that time. The novel delves deep into the psyche of Americans during that era.

The characters. Gatsby is a complex figure. He is both a dreamer and a victim of his own illusions. Daisy represents the allure and the shallowness of the upper class. Their relationship and the other characters around them, like Nick, show different aspects of American society, from the moral to the immoral, from the hopeful to the disillusioned.

The cultural impact of 'Fantastic Four' makes it a candidate for the great American novel. It has inspired generations of Americans, both in terms of its comic form and its various adaptations. It has influenced how Americans view superheroes and the concept of family. The way it portrays the characters' growth and their struggle against villains can be seen as a reflection of American values such as perseverance and the fight for justice, which are important aspects when considering it as a great American work.

The complex relationships in the book. The mother - daughter relationships are full of love, conflict, and understanding, which is a universal theme in American society. Also, the cultural exchange and the way different generations interact add to its candidacy.

A great American novel often has a compelling story that reflects the diverse experiences and values of the country. It might tackle important social issues or offer unique perspectives on American culture and history.

One factor is that it reflects the American experience. For example, if it shows the struggles and hopes of different social classes in America like in 'The Grapes of Wrath' by John Steinbeck which shows the plight of the working - class during the Great Depression. Another is its influence on American culture. 'The Jungle' by Upton Sinclair had a huge impact on food safety regulations in the US. And unique literary style also matters, like Faulkner's complex narrative in 'Absalom, Absalom!'

One factor could be its ability to capture the essence of the American experience at a particular time. For example, 'The Great Gatsby' is often considered in this category as it shows the Jazz Age, with its themes of wealth, love, and the pursuit of the American Dream.

The Great Gatsby is a great American novel because it captures the essence of an era. The 1920s was a time of change, and the novel shows the newfound wealth, the loosening of social mores, and the disillusionment that came with it. The characters' relationships, like Gatsby's doomed love for Daisy, are emblematic of the human condition. The novel also comments on the hollowness of the pursuit of material wealth and the loss of true values in American society, making it a timeless classic.

One reason is its vivid portrayal of the disillusionment and emptiness beneath the surface of the prosperous society. It also showcases the complexity of human desires and the inevitable downfall of illusions. The language and style are masterful, adding to its greatness.

The Great Gatsby is considered a great American novel because of its powerful themes like the American Dream and social class. It also has vivid characterizations and a richly described setting that reflects the era.