The main character in "The Great Gatsby" is Jay Gatsby, a mysterious and wealthy figure known for his lavish parties and unrequited love for Daisy Buchanan. Set in the Roaring Twenties, the novel, written by F. Scott Fitzgerald, explores themes of aspiration, decadence, and the American Dream. Gatsby is portrayed as both a romantic idealist and a tragic character, striving to recreate a past relationship with Daisy while navigating the complexities of wealth and social status. His story serves as a critique of the American society of the time, highlighting the emptiness behind the glamour.