- The heroes of The Grapes of Wrath are on the bottom end of the social ladder, their language is often vile, their behavior is sometimes as coarse as their language, and they freely discuss bodily functions (which in the 1930s were seldom mentioned in literature). What was Steinbeck’s purpose in portraying such unrefined and coarse people? What would be the effect on readers if the Joads spoke “proper” English and did not curse?
- According to statements made in this novel, of what importance is anger in overcoming fear? What must be done with anger in order to make it productive? Do you agree or disagree with that philosophy as expressed in this novel?
- Identify 3-5 significant Biblical references or parallels as you can find in the novel and discuss their effectiveness as well as their meaning.
- Describe the role women play throughout this novel. Be sure to comment on the significance of Rose of Sharon’s final act in the novel.
- As Tom leaves the family, he says, “I’ll be ever’where—wherever you look.” How is this declaration important in Tom’s evolving character as well as to the novel’s theme?
4 Comments
Marcos Rosales
8/26/2016 05:14:18 pm
1. Steinbeck's purpose was to emphasize the bottom class's mannerisms and differentiate his writing from the more proper style that was being done around and before the time he began writing. The effect this would have on readers would most likely be jarring, and also pique their interest in the story and get them to read further.
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Oscar Rivera
8/26/2016 06:37:38 pm
1. When looking at the main characters in Grapes of Wrath there is no denying that they were not the best educated in terms of school. They are at the bottom of the social ladder and are finically challenged due to the Great Depression. The purpose behind making these extremely coarse characters was to show how even though they may not have the best living conditions, they still try to make the best of everything. Many would believe that people who go through hell on earth would be arrogant and angry at everyone. Even though all characters in some way starve, suffer, and wish for a better life, they work together and don't give up. If the characters spoke in proper English it'd make the reader easily predict the way they'd act towards society. They'd think that acting positive towards the worst living conditions wouldn't be as bad as it seems.
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Aleyna Van Antwerp
8/26/2016 07:54:04 pm
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Lizet Antonio
8/26/2016 08:14:10 pm
1. Steinbeck’s purpose of portraying characters with unrefined and coarse is to show us the readers the difference between how wealthy and poor people act. One example of these unrefined and coarse people are the Joad’s. They were poor, as I read my understanding was that the Joad’s were traveling towards the west and throughout their journey they faced obstacles. They didn’t have money; in order to get money someone (father persay) needed to get a job to provide for his family but since it was hard to find a job he couldn’t give his family anything. Society is always judgmental; it’s gotten to the point that if they think a race is dangerous they wouldn't trust them with anything. Since the Joad’s have that type of language people would immediately assume they are poor, that’s just the reality. If the Joad’s had that “proper” language they probably be welcomed or considered into the middle or wealthy class.
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