What is the character development of The Grapes of Wrath?

Answer 1

In "The Grapes of Wrath," character development is most notably seen in Tom Joad, who evolves from a self-focused individual to a socially conscious figure driven by a sense of collective responsibility. As the Joad family faces the harsh realities of displacement and hardship during the Great Depression, Ma Joad emerges as a resilient matriarch, embodying strength and compassion. Other characters, like Jim Casy, undergo transformations that reflect broader themes of solidarity and social justice, ultimately influencing Tom’s growth. The novel illustrates how adversity fosters empathy and a commitment to communal struggle.