The Grapes of Wrath

John Steinbeck's The Grapes of Wrath is the story of the Joads, a fictional family of sharecroppers who had to leave their farm because of the Dust Bowl drought during The Great Depression. The novel chronicles man's struggle against nature and inhumanity.

Fast Facts

1. Author: John Steinbeck
2. Publication: 1939
3. Created a great deal of controversy upon publication
4. People debated, banned and burned it
5. Inspired songs by Woody Guthrie and Bruce Springsteen
6. Adapted for screen, stage and opera

Reception

The Grapes of Wrath was one of the most discussed and debated novels of its time. Steinbeck's liberal political views were frequently attacked and his story of America's poor inspired many to label him a socialist. It was widely purchased and read, however, and inspired a much-praised film the year after its release. Franklin D. Roosevelt lauded the novel and its description of the economically less fortunate.

Themes and Symbolism

Steinbeck explores the fellowship and commitment of family and takes a pessimistic view of human nature, as the Joads are continually stifled by their fellow travelers. The turtle represents a weak creature struggling against daunting odds. Rose of Sharon is pregnant throughout the novel, suggesting a new hope for the future, though the novel's ending does not express optimism that the Joads will experience a new and positive beginning.

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