In The Grapes of Wrath: How does Tom Joad develop?

Question

In the book The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck, how does the character Tom Joad develop and change throughout the novel? I've kind of noticed that he used to be more a "seize the day, don't worry about tomorrow" type of person, and then became more of a worrier about what the future may bring. I've also observed his change in selflessness; at the beginning his main concern was himself, but at the end he really wanted to help others. But I need really specific examples to back up my opinion, and I just can't seem to find them! Or, if you can give me another way Tom Joad grew as a person, that would be awesome too. Thanks!:)

Answer 1

Tom Joad from Steinbeck's Grapes of Wrath is a prime example of a person whose morals and spiritual growth cannot be restricted by the law or any other limiting factor for long. Throughout the novel he develops from a man only interested in his own independent personal desires and needs to one who is devoted to his family and sacrifices his own personal comfort for the benefit of the family. At the novel's end Tom is continuing Jim Casy's generous work of uniting the poor hand laborers against the rich oppressive landowners who are starving the poor with low wages. Tom's concept of family grows with his work uniting the poor to encompass all of humanity.

go to this site, it has a well written development of Toms character.

http://www.cliffsnotes.com/WileyCDA/LitN...

essays written on the subject

http://www.123helpme.com/search.asp?text...

food for thought