Grapes of Wrath Chapter 20 Quotes Flashcards

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Questions and Answers

What does the phrase 'they were subdued and quiet' indicate?

It indicates sadness as a result of Granma's death, breaking the family unit.

What feelings do Pa and Uncle John experience regarding funerals?

They feel guilty that circumstances prevent them from honoring their dead.

What does Tom suggest about the behavior towards cops?

He suggests that being 'bull-simple' is how migrant workers are perceived as subhuman.

What philosophy is represented by Casy sitting on the earth?

It embodies an agrarian philosophy and a desire to be close to the land. Signup and view all the answers

What does Tom's statement about going off alone signify?

It foreshadows his sacrifice for the family. Signup and view all the answers

What does the character express regret about regarding his past choices?

He regrets not studying tractors back home and instead wanting to leave. Signup and view all the answers

What does the line about generous behavior reveal?

It shows a theme of poor helping poor and reflects a sense of community. Signup and view all the answers

What does 'He's talking red' imply?

It implies that someone is plotting rebellion. Signup and view all the answers

What act of self-sacrifice does Casy perform?

He martyrs himself to save his friend. Signup and view all the answers

What does Casy's proud smile signify?

It signifies a sense of achievement in understanding group unity philosophy. Signup and view all the answers

What emotions does UJ express regarding Casy's sacrifice?

UJ feels anguish and burden after Casy's death. Signup and view all the answers

What contrasts are observed between Pa and Ma's perspectives?

Pa shows anger while Ma focuses on protecting the family's future. Signup and view all the answers

What spiritual choice does UJ express?

UJ expresses a desire for Jesus to take him home after his wife's death. Signup and view all the answers

What does Tom's remark about Pretty Boy Floyd signify?

It signifies a warning against the life of crime. Signup and view all the answers

What does the character feel forced to do when interacting with others?

He feels forced to adopt a servile attitude. Signup and view all the answers

How does Tom respond to feelings of powerlessness?

Tom expresses his frustration through tears. Signup and view all the answers

What concept does 'Oversoul' relate to in the story?

It relates to the movement towards community and global family unity. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Key Theme: Grief and Family Disintegration

The death of Granma leads the family to feel subdued and quiet, symbolizing the impact of loss on their unity.
Guilt arises among Pa and Uncle John for failing to honor the deceased with proper funerals, highlighting the disparity in mourning practices between migrant families and wealthier ones.

Prejudices Against Migrants

Tom gains insight into the systemic prejudices faced by migrant workers, realizing they are often treated as subhuman by authorities.
The term "bull-simple" reflects how migrants adapt their behavior to avoid antagonizing those in power, thereby losing their identity amid societal cruelty.

Connection to Land and Philosophy

Casy embodies agrarian philosophy, reflecting a deep desire to connect with the earth, signifying the importance of land to the migrant experience.
His contemplative nature serves as a contrast to the harsh realities faced by the family, representing a struggle to maintain a sense of home while displaced.

Sacrifice and Unity

Tom's contemplation of sacrifice foreshadows his own commitment to the family, indicating a transition from thought to action.
Casy’s martyr-like actions symbolize a deeper understanding of collective unity, reinforcing the idea of the "oversoul" in their struggle for communal identity and support.

Uncle John experiences anguish after Casy's sacrifice, feeling a loss of stability, which leads him to seek temporary solace in alcohol.
Pa and Ma's differing outlooks on Connie’s character emphasizes Ma’s focus on family well-being and future stability over resentful anger.

Themes of Desperation and Powerlessness

The characterisation of Tom adopting a "servile whine" illustrates how desperation forces migrants to degrade themselves, drawing sympathy from readers.
Tom's emotional breakdown exemplifies the profound effect of oppression, portraying the psychological impact on individuals who endure systemic injustices.

Communal Bonds Amidst Loss

Despite multiple losses (Granma, Casy, Connie), a sense of global family begins to form, signifying hope and resilience.
Acts of kindness and shared resources among characters, such as Ma providing for hungry children, illustrate the growing solidarity among the migrant community amidst their struggles.

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Description

Test your knowledge with these flashcards focused on key quotes from Chapter 20 of 'The Grapes of Wrath'. Each card highlights significant passages and their meanings, exploring themes of loss, guilt, and the struggles of migrant families. Perfect for students looking to deepen their understanding of the text.