The Grapes of Wrath

by John Steinbeck

Film by John Ford

 

  1. Indentify and DESCRIBE the following:
    A. Setting:
    B. Tom Joad:
    C. Jim Casey:
    D. Muley Graves:
    E. Pa Joad:
    F. Ma Joad:
    G. Grandpa and Grandma:
    H. Rose of Sharon:
    I. Connie:
    J. Uncle John:
  2. Why is the Joad home deserted?
  3. Which character is the real "strength" of the family--the one who attempts to hold it together? Explain.
  4. Why does the family decide to go to California? What do they imagine California to be like?
  5. Who is the first family member to "break off" from the journey? Why?
  6. Why are so many families camping out with all their possessions?
  7. What is an "Oakie"? Why are they hated?
  8. What is the family's reaction when they first see California?
  9. List 5 signs that demonstrate that the family is "breaking apart":
    A.
    B.
    C.
    D.
    E.
  10. What does Ma do that shows that she is beginning to think of other people besides her own immediate family?
  11. Describe working and living conditions for the migrant workers. (Be Specific!) What problems make it difficult to organize a union to demand better conditions?
  12. Why does Tom choose to leave?
  13. While the primary concern of the Joads has been centered on the family, what does Tom do that shows he has a concern for humanity as a whole?
  14. Explain the meaning of Ma Joad's "We are the people" speech near the end of the film. What lesson can be learned from this story?
  15. A common theme in Steinbeck's works is the idea that people need to work together to make it in this Life. How does that fit in with The Grapes of Wrath
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