Grapes of Wrath Chapter 23 Quotes Flashcards

Questions and Answers

Which quote demonstrates the profound 'Americanism' that the migrants have?

There was no loneliness...Failures dulled and the future was no threat.

And the stars down so close, and sadness and pleasure so close together, really the same thing.

And the people nodded, and perhaps the fire spurted a little light and showed their eyes looking in on themselves.

I was a recruit against Geronimo. (correct)

Why is the tale of the Geronimo recruit significant?

It reinforces the idea of earning what you deserve, rather than simply buying and owning it.

Which quote demonstrates the shared connection the migrants have with the Native Americans?

I was a recruit against Geronimo.

And the people nodded, and perhaps the fire spurted a little light and showed their eyes looking in on themselves. (correct)

There was no loneliness...Failures dulled and the future was no threat.

You can do anything with a harmonica.

Which quote foreshadows the Utopian feeling of the government camp of chapter 24?

There was no loneliness...Failures dulled and the future was no threat. Signup and view all the answers

Which quote shows the seemingly meaningless nature of individual hope for the migrants?

And the stars down so close, and sadness and pleasure so close together, really the same thing. Signup and view all the answers

Why is the harmonica a significant image in the chapter?

The harmonica is versatile and reflects the resilience of the workers. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of this chapter within the general narrative?

It provides a reprieve from poverty and offers hope to the workers. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Americanism in Migrants

Quote: "I was a recruit against Geronimo" reflects the deep-rooted sense of 'Americanism' among migrants.
This connection to historical struggles symbolizes their fight for belonging and recognition in American society.

Significance of Geronimo Tale

The narrative emphasizes earning one's place in the world rather than material ownership.
The labor and struggles of migrants legitimize their claims to land, highlighting a deep-seated connection to the land they toil.

Connection with Native Americans

Quote: "And the people nodded, and perhaps the fire spurted a little light and showed their eyes looking in on themselves" signifies the shared history of exploitation.
Both migrants and Native Americans are linked through their experiences as oppressed minorities.

Foreshadowing Utopian Government Camp

The quote "There was no loneliness...Failures dulled and the future was no threat" suggests an optimistic view of the government camp.
This sense of community and safety contrasts sharply with the previous solitude experienced by the migrants.

Nature of Hope for Migrants

Quote: "And the stars down so close, and sadness and pleasure so close together, really the same thing" indicates the complexity of individual hope.
It underscores the fragile balance between despair and joy in the migrants' lives, showing how closely intertwined their experiences are.

Significance of the Harmonica

The harmonica symbolizes versatility and cultural adaptability, as "You can do anything with a harmonica."
This mirrors the resilience of the workers, embodying their shared struggles across different cultures and regions.

Role of Chapter within Narrative

This chapter serves as a contrast to the poverty depicted in earlier chapters, offering a glimpse of hope for collective action among workers.
It sets the stage for a hopeful outcome in future chapters, particularly with the successful resistance against the dance hijacking.

Description

Explore key quotes from Chapter 23 of 'The Grapes of Wrath' and their significance regarding American values. These flashcards highlight the themes of struggle and entitlement faced by migrants. Test your understanding of these profound messages.