The Great Gatsby: Character & Key Quotes: Mayer Wolfsheim

Character Introduction: Mayer Wolfsheim

Physical Appearance:

“He was a small, flat-nosed Jew.” This description, rudimentary and rather disparaging, establishes from the onset the antisemitic stereotypes Fitzgerald uses to characterize Wolfsheim.
“…two fine growths of hair which luxuriated in either nostril.” This particularly unsightly and off-putting image further emphasises Wolfsheim’s gatekeeping role in the criminal underworld.

Behavior and Characteristics:

“…[Wolfsheim] ate with ferocious delicacy.” This oxymoronic description encapsulates Wolfsheim’s savagery that veils under a layer of sophistication.
“Meyer Wolfsheim? No, he’s a gambler.” This quote conveys Gatsby’s beliefs about the nature of Wolfsheim’s work, explicitly linking him to the negative connotations associated with gambling.

Role in the Plot:

“He’s the man who fixed the World’s Series back in 1919.” This indicates Wolfsheim’s integral role in a significant historical event, inferring criminality and manipulation while enhancing the sense of realism and societal corruption in the novel.
“I understand you’re looking for a business gonnegtion.” Wolfsheim’s interest in Nick indicates he may potentially pull others into his shady dealings, expanding the novel’s exposure of societal corruptedness.

Wolfsheim’s Relationship With Other Characters:

“Gatsby’s very careful about women. He would never so much as look at a friend’s wife.” Wolfsheim’s remark portrays a certain level of respect and admiration for Gatsby’s caution when it pertains to women, illuminating Gatsby’s moral compass amidst all his perceived decadence.
“I made the pleasure of his acquaintance just after the war.” Gatsby’s association with Wolfsheim suggests his own involvement in criminal activity, adding to the ambiguity surrounding his wealth.

Symbolism Through Character:

“…an expressive nose, this little head was forever shaking…“ Wolfsheim’s gestures, especially the incessant shaking of his head, symbolises the uneasiness and instability prevalent in the ‘Roaring Twenties.’
“He’s a smart man.” Wolfsheim’s cunning nature underscores the theme of deception that runs through the novel, implying that one needs to resort to guile and illicit means in pursuit of wealth, power, and the elusive American Dream.