Gender Roles in The Grapes of Wrath

Introduction

John Steinbeck's novel, "The Grapes of Wrath," published in 1939, serves as a profound exploration of the evolving gender dynamics during the tumultuous decade of the Great Depression. Steinbeck, a proletarian novelist deeply influenced by his personal experiences during this era, artfully illuminates the transformative shifts in traditional gender roles. While vividly depicting the harsh realities of the Depression through his well-drawn characters, Steinbeck also captures the spirit of burgeoning female independence. This essay delves into the novel's portrayal of gender roles during the 1930s, emphasizing that being a domestic mother had a crucial survival function, and that male roles were no more significant than those of females. By closely examining the female characters Ma Joad and Rose of Sharon and drawing insights from literary critics like Jenn Williamson and Mimi Gladstein, we unveil the novel's profound focus on gender roles and its critique of their destruction amidst the Dust Bowl's transformative upheaval.

Analysis of the Character of Ma Joad

In the face of the traditional patriarchal system, Ma Joad emerges as a formidable force within the narrative, steadfastly holding her family together throughout their arduous journey. Interestingly, despite the men in the family weakening as the journey progresses, the female characters grow stronger. Initially, Ma Joad embodies the archetype of the submissive wife, adhering to the traditional female role with unwavering loyalty to her husband, Pa. At the onset of the story, she refrains from expressing her thoughts or doubts freely, often waiting for a signal to speak, embodying the submissive and passive female 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 nurturing mother to all" (Gladstein 1986, 77), exemplified by her selfless act of sharing meager rations with strangers due to her maternal instincts. 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 journey to California. She looks to Tom to speak, respecting his role as a man, even though she harbors her own opinion. She states,

"Why, we'd be proud to have you. 'Course I can't say right now [...] maybe we better not say till all the men 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 notable shift in Ma Joad's behavior. When the male figures engage in a discussion circle, she boldly expresses her thoughts, shaking her husband with her assertive tone:

"I never heerd tell of no Joads [...] ever refusin' food an' shelter or a lift on the road to anybody."

Her assertiveness prompts the male figures to wait for her to return to the circle, a sign of newfound respect for a woman's perspective. 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 her opinion. This incident unfolds before 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 her rebellion. Steinbeck vividly portrays the tension as

"The whole group watched the revolt. They watched Pa, waiting for him to break into fury [...] the group knew that Ma had one. And Ma knew it too" (Steinbeck 230).

Ma's determination to keep her family together and safe, driven by her maternal instincts, compels her to speak out despite the potential backlash from her husband, who appears weakened by the changing circumstances. Initially aware of her importance in the family, Ma follows the hierarchical system, but as Gladstein notes, "Her character rises from the book as much more than Mother Earth" (Gladstein 78). The detailed characterization of Ma Joad underscores her significance in the family and challenges the prevailing perception of women during the Depression. Steinbeck skillfully portrays Ma Joad as a multifaceted character, thereby presenting a modern view of women's ability to multitask and lead in times of hardship.

Analysis of the Character of Rose of Sharon

Rose of Sharon's character undergoes a significant transformation in contrast to Ma Joad, who consistently exhibits strength and leadership. At the outset of the novel, Rose appears self-centered, displaying a lack of affection for her unborn child and reluctance to assist Ma with household duties, similar to Ma's evolving role as the family's leader. However, as the story progresses, Rose gradually matures.

Ma assumes the responsibility of nurturing Rose's child and guiding her through motherhood, but Rose initially resents 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 illustrated when Uncle John, despite his age, is favored over Rose to sit next to the driver:

"Had he not been fifty years old, and so one of the natural rulers of the family, Uncle John would have preferred not to sit in the honor place beside the driver. He would have liked Rose of Sharon to sit there. This was impossible because she was young and a woman" (Steinbeck 130).

This passage underscores the initial adherence to traditional gender roles within the Joad family.

Rose of Sharon's character is initially portrayed as submissive, living solely for her husband's dreams, devoid of personal ambitions. She appears powerless and heavily reliant on her husband, but when he abandons her, she is left in a vulnerable state. This loss triggers a transformation in her character, leading to increased sensitivity toward her unborn child and a newfound willingness to contribute to the family unit, particularly under Ma's guidance. This transformation is subtly reflected in the narrative, as she evolves from being referred to as a "girl" to a "woman" by the novel's conclusion.

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 concludes with an image of two women, evoking optimism in the face of adversity. This portrayal reinforces the idea that women, through Steinbeck's lens, are resilient and adaptable, capable of confronting life's challenges head-on.

Conclusion

Throughout the novel, Steinbeck highlights the shifting power dynamics between men and women during the 1930s. While men are weakened by the loss of their land and the ability to provide for their families, women, like Ma and Rose, grow stronger as they protect their loved ones. The journey that the Joad family undertakes mirrors the personal journeys of Ma and Rose, as they come to realize the importance of their voices and maternal instincts. This transformation underscores Steinbeck's belief in equal opportunities for both genders during the Depression, with the weakening of male authority giving rise to strong-willed female characters. In this portrayal, Steinbeck critiques the fragility of the American patriarchal system during that challenging period.