The haystacks, the cattle, the pitchfork, the dogs, the oak trees, and nature itself, all form part of this idealistic setting as men struggle to obtain respect and admiration. In "The Leader of the People" by John Steinbeck, two worlds clash against each other forming a conflict in the minds of the main characters. The desire to become an extraordinary being becomes a repeated theme throughout the story, forming a quarrel between Realism and Idealism. During the character's attempts to gain honor and respect, three generations battle against each other to obtain the ultimate dream of heroism.

As the story develops, Steinbeck manipulates his three main characters, Jody, Carl, and Grandpa to create an intense struggle for respect and admiration. From the beginning of the story, the reader can see how there is a great tension between Jody and his dad Carl. At a particular point, Carl's tension...