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Summary: The Grapes Of Wrath

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The Grapes of Wrath, written by John Steinbeck, took place during the Great Depression, a period in which business activity in the United States was impeded. Farmers had to work even harder to produce and pay off their debts, and when the depression hit, many of these farms were taken by the banks. Because they had no choice to stay, the farmers were forced to migrate with their families to the West in search for opportunities and jobs. In these desperate times, specific gender roles are quickly diminishing, which is shown through the Joad family. The men, focusing on supporting their family and finding work, also are helping out with womanly tasks. The women, concentrating on taking care of the well-being of the family, take on tasks men would usually undertake. However, Ma Joad actions throughout The Grapes of Wrath shows how she converts the family into a matriarchy. Because of Ma Joad’s persistent fortitude and leadership throughout The Grapes of Wrath, she demonstrates the characteristics that distinguish the Joad women from the Joad men.
Ma Joad’s assertiveness in tough situations shows how the Joad women excel at …show more content…

The way Ma Joad asserts herself in order to get things done is something that the Joad men do not do. In general, the men were quite passive, unlike the women. However, during disasters and successes, the women act more dignified and sincere towards the situations when compared to the men. They do their best to try to cope with the event but do not make significant decisions like the women. Lastly, the care Ma has for the family helps with the determination of the Joad men. The men, losing motivation to keep on going, find themselves having resolve again. Considering how Ma Joad’s valor and leadership is present all throughout The Grapes of Wrath, the Joad family as a whole could not survive without

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