Explain how Tom Joad's imprisonment affect the way he behaved during the journey and throughout his search for work in California.
One of the best analyses of this character is here:
http://www.sparknotes.com/lit/grapesofwrath/canalysis.html
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Tom Joad's imprisonment plays a significant role in shaping his behavior during his journey and search for work in California. To understand why, let's break it down step by step:
1. Research Tom Joad's imprisonment: To get a comprehensive understanding of the impact his imprisonment had on him, it is essential to study the source material. In this case, referring to John Steinbeck's classic novel "The Grapes of Wrath" would be the best starting point. By reading the relevant chapters or summaries of the book, you can gain a firsthand account of Tom's experiences.
2. Analyze the context of his imprisonment: Tom Joad was imprisoned for four years after being involved in a homicide. Understanding the circumstances surrounding his conviction will provide insight into his mindset and the subsequent implications.
3. Explore the prison environment: Imprisonment often leads to changes in behavior due to the restrictive nature of confinement. Studying the impact of incarceration on individuals, such as the loss of personal freedom, social isolation, and potential exposure to violence, will help explain Tom Joad's altered behavior.
4. Observe changes in attitude: Upon his release, Tom possesses a sense of anger and defiance towards injustice, which is evident throughout his journey. The dehumanizing and harsh conditions of prison have likely contributed to this outlook. His experiences behind bars have cultivated a mindset that seeks justice for the oppressed and fuels his determination to fight for the rights of migrant workers.
5. Analyze Tom's behavior on the journey: During the journey to California, Tom's time in prison influences his interactions with others. He becomes more cautious, guarded, and even displays a sense of wariness. These behavioral changes can be attributed to his previous incarceration, as he is cautious about exposing himself to further danger or arrest.
6. Examine his quest for work in California: Tom's experiences in prison also shape his pursuit of work in California. Having been previously isolated from society, he is attuned to the exploitation and mistreatment faced by workers. His time behind bars has made him more empathetic towards the plight of his fellow laborers and increases his determination to fight against oppressive conditions.
By following these steps—researching Tom Joad's imprisonment, analyzing the context, exploring the prison environment, observing changes in attitude, and examining his behavior during the journey and search for work—you can understand how his imprisonment profoundly affected his actions throughout "The Grapes of Wrath."