The Character of Scarlett O'Hara in Gone with the Wind: How Her Ambition, Determination, and Flaws Shape the Novel

Scarlett O’Hara, the protagonist of Gone with the Wind, is one of literature's most iconic and controversial characters. Margaret Mitchell crafts Scarlett as a complex figure whose ambition, determination, and flaws drive the narrative forward and shape the novel's themes of survival, love, and loss. Through Scarlett, Mitchell explores the intersection of personal ambition and social expectations in a society on the brink of monumental change.

Scarlett’s ambition is her defining trait. At the beginning of the novel, she is portrayed as a privileged, manipulative Southern belle, willing to do anything to win Ashley Wilkes' heart. However, as the war and its aftermath strip away her former comforts, Scarlett’s determination to survive and rebuild Tara emerges. She becomes a self-reliant businesswoman, engaging in activities that were traditionally reserved for men, like managing a lumber mill and selling cotton. Scarlett’s ambition, while often seen as a strength, also becomes her downfall, especially in her relationships with others. Her fixation on Ashley prevents her from recognizing the love and devotion that Rhett Butler offers her, creating a constant emotional struggle.

Scarlett’s flaws—her pride, stubbornness, and single-minded pursuit of her goals—make her a character that readers both admire and criticize. Her inability to adapt her emotional world to fit her evolving circumstances creates tension and drives much of the conflict in the novel. However, these flaws also make her a relatable character, as her struggles are grounded in the realities of human desire, pride, and survival.

In conclusion, Scarlett O’Hara is a multifaceted character whose ambition and determination define her journey in Gone with the Wind. Mitchell uses Scarlett’s character to explore the complexities of personal growth, sacrifice, and the cost of achieving one’s goals, making her one of the most compelling figures in American literature.