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The Grapes of Wrath | Essays and Criticism

  • The Character of Tom Joad in The Grapes of Wrath

    In this essay, R. Moore examines the character of Tom Joad and explores the ways in which his experience reflects on and parallels the major social themes explored by Steinbeck; draws on scholarly criticism of this theme.

  • Biblical Symbolism in The Grapes of Wrath

    In the following essay, R. Moore explores the biblical symbolism in Steinbeck's The Grapes of Wrath, examing different viewpoints on the topic in light of the seeming absence of any character aspiring to a higher spiritual plane.

  • The Relevance of The Grapes of Wrath Today

    Richard Henry provides an overview of The Grapes of Wrath, declaring that Steinbeck's work continues to have relevance today—particularly as it addresses the distinct issues of social classes and the importance of community.

  • The Grapes of Wrath: Preserving Its Place in the Curriculum

    In this excerpt, Lee Burress provides an overview of The Grapes of Wrath and rejects the claims that the novel is sympathetic to atheism and to communism.

  • The Novels of John Steinbeck: A Critical Study

    In the following excerpt, Howard Levant discusses Steinbeck’s individual and universal characterizations of the Joads.