Table of ContentsIntroductionCharacter Analysis of Ma JoadCharacter Analysis of Rose of SharonConclusionIntroductionJohn Steinbeck's novel, "The Grapes of Wrath," published in 1939, serves as in-depth exploration of changing gender dynamics during the tumultuous decade of the Great Depression. Steinbeck, a proletarian novelist deeply influenced by his personal experiences during this era, artfully highlights the transformative changes in traditional gender roles. While vividly depicting the harsh realities of the Depression through her well-drawn characters, Steinbeck also captures the spirit of budding female independence. This essay looks at the representation of gender roles in the novel in the 1930s, emphasizing that being a domestic mother had a crucial survival function and that male roles were not more important than those of women. By closely examining the female characters Ma Joad and Rose of Sharon and drawing on insights from literary critics like Jenn Williamson and Mimi Gladstein, we unveil the novel's deep emphasis on gender roles and its critique of their destruction in the amid the transformative upheaval of the Dust Bowl. plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”?Get the original essayCharacter Analysis of Ma JoadFacing the traditional patriarchal system, Ma Joad emerges as a formidable force within the narrative, holding her family tight together throughout their arduous journey. Interestingly, even though the men in the family become weaker as the journey progresses, the female characters become stronger. Initially, Ma Joad embodies the submissive wife archetype, adhering to the traditional female role with unwavering loyalty to her husband, Pa. At the beginning of the story, she refrains from freely expressing her thoughts or doubts , often waiting for a signal to speak, embodying the submissive and passive feminine ideal of her time. Steinbeck artfully constructs an image of Ma Joad as the quintessential nurturing mother, initially limited to the roles of wife and caretaker. She is described as "a caring mother to all" (Gladstein 1986: 77), exemplified by her selfless act of sharing meager rations with strangers due to her maternal instinct. Ma Joad's submissive role in relation to the male characters is evident when Tom, returning from prison with Casey, raises questions about joining the family's trip to California. She turns to Tom to speak, respecting his role as a man, even if she has her own opinion. She says, “Well, we’d be proud to have you.” Of course I can't say it right now [...] maybe we'd better not say it until all the men have come” (Steinbeck 127). Despite her underlying thoughts, she defers to male authority, embodying the traditional gender norms of her time. However, as the story progresses, there is a noticeable change in Ma Joad's behavior. When the male characters engage in a talking circle, she boldly expresses her thoughts, shaking her husband with her assertive tone: "I never heard of any Joad [...] ever refusing to eat, a shelter or a lift on the road. to anyone." Her confidence prompts the male figures to wait for her return to the circle, a sign of new respect for a woman's point of view. This moment marks a turning point in Ma's role within the family, as she gains a voice in decision-making Another pivotal moment in challenging traditional gender roles occurs when Ma,unlike before, does not seek approval before expressing his opinion. This incident plays out in front of everyone when their car breaks down, and Casey and Tom decide to stay behind to fix it. Ma confronts her husband and the whole group witnesses his rebellion. Steinbeck describes the tension vividly: “The whole group watched the revolt. They looked at Dad, waiting for him to get angry [...] the group knew that Mom had one. And Mom knew it too” (Steinbeck 230). A determination to keep her family together and safe, driven by her maternal instinct, compels her to speak out despite potential negative reactions from her husband, who seems weakened by the changing circumstances. Initially aware of her importance in the family, Ma follows the hierarchical system, but as Gladstein notes, "her character stands out in the book much more than Mother Earth" (Gladstein 78). Ma Joad's detailed characterization highlights her importance in the family and challenges the dominant perception of women during the Depression. Steinbeck skillfully portrays Ma Joad as a multifaceted character, presenting a modern view of women's ability to multitask and lead in difficult times. Character Analysis of Rose of SharonRose of Sharon's character undergoes a significant transformation unlike Ma Joad, who consistently demonstrated strength and leadership. At the beginning of the novel, Rose appears self-centered, displaying a lack of affection for her unborn child and an unwillingness to help Ma with household chores, similar to Ma's evolving role as head of the household. However, as the story progresses, Rose gradually matures. Mom takes on the responsibility of nurturing Rose's child and guiding her through motherhood, but Rose is initially unhappy with these efforts and uses her status as a respected mother to her advantage, seeking protection. In the early stages of their journey, gender roles remain strictly defined, as shown when Uncle John, despite his age, is preferred to Rose to sit next to the driver: "If he doesn't was not fifty years old, and therefore one of the most natural leaders of the family, Uncle John would have preferred not to sit in the place of honor next to the driver. He would have liked Rose of Sharon to sit there because she was young and a woman” (Steinbeck 130). highlights the initial adherence to traditional gender roles within the Joad family. The character of Rose of Sharon is initially portrayed as submissive, living solely for her husband's dreams, lacking personal ambitions. She seems helpless and heavily dependent on her husband, but when he abandons her, she finds herself in a vulnerable state. This loss triggers a transformation in her character, leading to a heightened sensitivity towards her unborn child and a new desire to contribute to the family unit, especially under the leadership of Ma. This transformation is subtly reflected in the narrative, as she goes from the status of “girl” to that of “woman” in the conclusion of the novel. The novel's controversial ending depicts Rose breastfeeding a starving man, a symbolic act of compassion and hope. This scene challenges traditional gender roles and reflects Steinbeck's modern perspective. The novel ends with the image of two women, evoking optimism in the face of adversity. This depiction reinforces the idea that women, through Steinbeck's lens, are resilient and adaptable, capable of facing life's challenges head on. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay Conclusion Throughout the In., 33(2), 199-221.