“Tom” and “Myrtle” are characters in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel The Great Gatsby. In the novel, Tom is a wealthy and aggressive man who is married to Daisy Buchanan. Myrtle is a working-class woman who is having an affair with Tom.

There are several possible reasons why Tom might hit Myrtle in the novel. Here are a few potential explanations:

1. Jealousy: Tom is jealous of Myrtle’s relationship with his wife, Daisy, and this jealousy may motivate him to hit Myrtle. Tom is a possessive and controlling individual, and he may see Myrtle as a threat to his own status and power.
2. Anger: Tom is prone to anger and violence, and he may hit Myrtle in a fit of rage or frustration. In the novel, Tom is depicted as having a volatile temper and being quick to anger, especially when he feels threatened or undermined.
3. Power dynamics: Tom is a wealthy and influential man, while Myrtle is a working-class woman with little power or social status. Tom may hit Myrtle as a way of exerting his dominance and control over her.
4. Lack of empathy: Tom is a selfish and narcissistic character who lacks empathy for others. He may hit Myrtle without considering the consequences or the pain he is causing her.

It is important to note that the reasons for Tom’s behavior in the novel are complex and multifaceted. His actions are shaped by a combination of his personal traits, the social and cultural context in which he lives, and the power dynamics at play in his relationships.