Plot
Who exposes the fact that Tom is hiding after killing people?
Ruthie
What literary device does this quote show?
P.442 “The mud sucked at their feet as though it were a live thing holding them back.”
Personification
How does the weather connect with other chapters?
It juxtaposes chapter 1 and 3 (dryness of land)
“Well, our brother’s a-hidin’ right now from killin’ a fella” (413)
Ruthie/Winfield
What message does Steinbeck try to convey by describing Tom’s spiritual transformation?
Steinbeck shows the importance in coming together as a group rather than staying as individuals regarding survival and social change, (references Tom Casy’s oversoul idea).
Why won't people recognize Tom, even though people could be looking for him?
He has a bad injury (scar on his face, nose is crooked)
What literary device does this quote show?
P. 224 “ Ruthie and Winfield came out of their bed like hermit crabs from shells”
Simile
How do the economic hardships in Chapter 28 differ from the hardships in earlier chapters?
Chapter 28 is more about the exploitation of migrants and the difficulties in the new land, while earlier chapters deal with the issues of the old land and being on the road.
“Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor” (418)
Tom
What is the purpose of including Tom’s message about how the people in the camps had better order than the cops ever had?
Steinbeck uses this to show how the ordinary people in this time period were able to create a community without oppression to advocate for social change.
What does Ma want to give Tom as he is going away?
Some Money (Seven dollars)
What literary device does this quote show?
P.415 “The fat drops of rain scattered down, splashing loudly on the fallen leaves, and the cloud moved on and unveiled the stars again.
Personification
How does tom show character growth from earlier chapters?
Tom goes from a self-centered individual to someone who is selfless and wants to help others in need.
“But I know now a fella ain’t no good alone”. (418)
Tom
How does Steinbeck use Tom’s new outlook on life to reinforce his view on survival?
He advocates for working together and not staying isolated
What is Rosasharn determined to do even though Ma discourages her because of her pregnancy?
Pick cotton
What literary device does this quote show?
P.441 “The rain was a grey curtain falling across the world.”
Metaphor
How does the motif of the land change throughout the chapters?
In the beginning, the land is seen as the promised land, but upon arrival, they are disillusioned by the letdown that they came so far for.
“Them look like rain-heads.”(428)
What does Tom’s commitment to helping others reflect Steinbeck’s vision for social change?
Steinbeck shows that social change happens through group efforts.