Short Answer 
Minor characters in “The Great Gatsby,” such as Meyer Wolfsheim, Owl Eyes, and Klipspringer, are integral to the narrative, reflecting key societal themes and enhancing the story’s depth. They provide insights into Gatsby’s life and the moral complexities of their relationships, underscoring the broader themes of isolation and materialism in the Jazz Age.
Step 1: Understanding Minor Characters
In literature, minor characters are those who play a lesser role compared to the main characters. They still play a significant part in the story’s development and may influence the plot or main characters’ actions. In “The Great Gatsby,” characters such as Wolfsheim, Owl Eyes, and Klipspringer fall into this category, serving purposes that enrich the overall narrative.
Step 2: Detailed Descriptions of Minor Characters
The minor characters in “The Great Gatsby” each represent different facets of society and Gatsby’s world. Understanding their roles helps to flesh out the story:
- Meyer Wolfsheim: A business associate of Gatsby, he is deeply affected by Gatsby’s death but chooses not to attend the funeral, demonstrating his complex emotions and the moral ambiguities in their friendship.
- Owl Eyes: The only character besides Nick and Gatsby’s father who attends the funeral, Owl Eyes symbolizes true concern and awareness of Gatsby’s legacy amidst a crowd that largely ignores it.
- Klipspringer: A self-centered musician living at Gatsby’s mansion, he calls Nick seeking his shoes instead of showing genuine grief, highlighting superficial relationships in Gatsby’s life.
Step 3: The Role of Minor Characters in the Story
Minor characters like Wolfsheim, Owl Eyes, and Klipspringer play critical roles that enhance our understanding of the main characters and the themes in “The Great Gatsby.” They help illustrate the broader social commentary on friendship, loyalty, and the impact of wealth:
- They offer insights into Gatsby’s character and the consequences of his lifestyle.
- Their actions and attitudes reflect the societal values and moral decay during the Jazz Age.
- They contribute to the overall mood and themes of isolation and the quest for identity in a materialistic world.