Joad Journey: Endurance
Introduction: Without the characteristic of human endurance, a person would be lost. Endurance allows one to continue when all may be discouraging one to stop. It is crucial to have this characteristic to succeed and achieve, specifically in times of challenge and hardship. The Joads relied on Ma to lead, guide and support it. Ma Joad showed her characteristics through the quest to California for a better life and through references to her past. Ma Joad exemplifies the theme of human endurance in the Grapes of Wrath by guiding her family, by taking care of her family, and by being diligently hardworking.
Firstly, Ma Joad exemplifies the theme of human endurance by guiding her family.
“Tom, I hope things is all right
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Although the ending of the book was mysterious, I found it to be bleak and discouraging, as predicted by Ma. Ma’s confidence and character grows as she leads her family in the fight for a better future and status.
Secondly, Ma Joad exemplifies the theme of human endurance by caring for her family.
Many characters were unable to care for themselves.
Characters such as Rose of Sharon and the elderly members were entirely dependent on Ma throughout the story, with the exception of the character development that occurred towards the ending of The Grapes of Wrath. Ma willingly supported and cared for her family.
Thirdly, Ma Joad exemplifies the theme of human endurance by being diligently hardworking.
Ma’s appearance symbolizes her inner development and experiences. On page forty Steinbeck stated: “her hazel eyes seemed to have experienced all possible tragedy and to have mounted pain and suffering like steps into a high calm and a superhuman understanding.”
Ma is experienced and wise. She puts others before herself and stays strong for her family. While Ma is incredibly nurturing toward her family, she emphasizes the importance of survival. This exemplifies her willingness to endure the pains that she has encountered in her past and present life described in the