Jealousy In 'The Grapes Of Wrath'

It is in our nature to be jealous. Humans, like any other creature, have the basic instinct of protecting themselves and others who they care about, and jealousy is a response because of that. Jealousy is very powerful, as the article states, “In its most extreme form, Buss says, jealousy can be exceedingly damaging— it’s the leading driver of homicide of romantic partners, particularly of wives, girlfriends, and exes. It can also compel people to attempt to control their partners in unhealthy ways.” In addition, jealousy can be a guide that a relationship may be weak because, “ it could indicate a power imbalance in a relationship.” Even with all of this in mind, jealousy is a needed for human survival, as it is a motivator that keeps us committed

Just before the shouting match, they both fought physically. This just demonstrates further the level of seriousness and emotion in the environment. Jealousy of such an extreme level can lead to bad endings, such as described earlier with jealousy being, “the leading driver of homicide of romantic partners.” However, with all looking bad, Tea Cake and Janie did find a way to sort it out. The key to this turn around is with the passage stating, “Tea Cake never let go.” Janie repeatedly told him to get off, yet he remained. Tea Cake understood that he could fix this situation, no matter how angry Janie may become. This confidence in himself payed off. “They wrestled on until they were doped with their own fumes and emanations... kissed her until she arched her body to meet him and they fell asleep in sweet exhaustion.” The ability to turn the intense emotions of anger and jealousy into lust or love is an exact demonstration of the article’s main point. The article says, “jealousy is a positive thing,” noting that jealousy expresses devotion to your partner. In the passage, Janie is jealous that Tea Cake finds himself with another woman because of all the she has invested in him. She moved with him, she works with him, she has dedicated so much of her life to him. Tea Cake recognizes this, which is how he is able to turn her jealousy into a positive emotion. Their fight and subsequent night