Desperation

The Great Depression was a time of desperation among many families in America. As banks and large corporations took over most of the farmland in the Midwest, these families, commonly known by the degrading term "Okies," fled to California to find jobs advertised by handbills.

The Joad family has seen these handbill, and like all the others, they are convinced that there is ample work in California. They receive some warnings along the way about the dire conditions, but their desperation keeps them going. They have no other choices. They want to stay together and survive any way they can.

Desperation is a driving force for this large family. Even after the grandparents both die on the road, they keep going, their persistence never flagging. Although they are disappointed by California, they are committed to staying together and surviving in any way possible.

Importance of Family

The Joads...