John Steinbecks The Grapes of Wrath :: John Steinbeck Grapes Wrath Essays

John Steinbecks The Grapes of WrathThroughout his book, the Grapes of Wrath, John Steinbeck employs the principles of Foucaults theory that power exists as a result of consent. This is particularly the case in the relations between the Joad family. Chapter ten includes specific scenes in which the family members assumed positions of power are focused on and explained. When Jim Casy asks if he can accomp each the Joads on their migratory trip to California, Ma looks to turkey cock to speak, because he is a man. Ma is clearly consenting to Toms power over her as a male figure, not because he told her he had the right to speak first, but because she allowed him to hold that prerogative. Foucault also argues that identity element perception is related to various modes of discourse that are specific to historical eras apparently, the supposition that women are subordinate to men has been established in behavior, media, or any other entity that influences the way people think. When the rest of the Joad family returns on the truck after attempting to sell the last of their belongings, Steinbeck uses three pages to describe each family members clothe on the truck and why they belong there. Al is the proud and serious and efficient driver of the truck, earning the familys respect for his responsibility in manning the vehicle. This exemplifies Foucaults idea of transaction the family consents to Als power because they will be affected if the truck malfunctions. Rose of Sharon is a balanced, self-satisfied, and all-knowing woman whose husband, Connie, is alarmed by the prominent change in her behavior since the onset of pregnancy although he once controlled her, he now feels weakened in his power because he has let her self-complacency control him. Pa and Uncle John, as heads of the clan, sit in the honor seats beside Al however, Uncle John secretly wants Rose of Sharon to take his place because he is apprehensive inside and knows she is surer of hersel f. Uncle Johns power is one of dogma, while Rose of Sharons is self-asserted. The entire Joad family then holds a council meeting to discuss their plans for departure. Again, everyone has his or her decreed placement the men squat in an inner circle, while the women stand around them.