The Grapes of Wrath

In The Grapes of Wrath, character names are highly symbolic. Rose of Sharon references the biblical Song of Solomon, symbolizing sacrifice and nurturing. Tom Joad's common name reflects his everyman...

Casy's death symbolizes the oppressive lengths to which industrial powers will go to silence truth and dissent, reflecting the violent suppression of those challenging economic interests. It also...

In "The Grapes of Wrath," the hitchhiker, Tom Joad, persuades the trucker to give him a ride by appealing to the trucker's sense of goodwill and shared frustration with the wealthy. Tom points out...

Tom's impatience with the gas station attendant in The Grapes of Wrath reflects his frustration and urgency. He is eager to continue the journey with his family and is irritated by any delays or...

Tom Joad is reluctant to leave Oklahoma primarily because he is on parole and cannot legally leave the state. Despite the destruction of his home and the absence of his family and friends, his parole...

Tom's mother is worried that Tom might be crazy mad because of his time in prison in The Grapes of Wrath because she thinks that something bad may have happened to him on the inside. The implication...

Steinbeck portrays Tom Joad as a likable and moral character through his deep sense of justice and loyalty to his family. Despite his flaws and past mistakes, Tom consistently demonstrates compassion...

Tom Joad's personal items in The Grapes of Wrath include a cap and a pick ax. His cap is notably significant, as it is frequently mentioned and used to wipe his face. It symbolizes his identity and...

Ma and Pa's initial concern upon seeing Tom is that he might have escaped from jail, fearing he is on the run. After Tom reassures them of his parole, Ma's secondary worry is about the psychological...