The Grapes of Wrath Gender Quotes

How we cite our quotes: Citations follow this format: (Chapter.Paragraph)

Quote #7

Ma looked to Tom to speak, because he was a man, but Tom did not speak. She let him have the chance that was his right, and then she said, "Why, we'd be proud to have you. 'Course I can't say right now; Pa says all the men'll talk tonight." (10.34)

Ma is more of a "man" than Tom or Pa in this situation. She knows how to make decisions. She steps up.

Quote #8

And [Ma Joad's] hands were crusted with salt, pink with fluid from the fresh pork. "It's women's work," she said finally. (10.141)

Why is it so shocking that Reverend Casy would attempt to do women's work? How have gender roles changes since 1930s America?

Quote #9

Men sang the words, and women hummed the tunes. (17.2)

Check out this antiquated gender divide. By singing the words, it's almost as if men are in charge of meaning, and by humming the tunes, it's almost as if women are in charge of emotion.