Belief in John Steinbecks The Grapes of Wrath :: Free Essay Writer

Belief in John Steinbecks The Grapes of WrathHoliness, sin, and life ar repeatedly questioned throughout John Steinbecks The Grapes of Wrath, particularly by the former preacher, Jim Casey. As a preacher, Casey only preaches what the bible states and he resigns from his occupation after he feels the urge to pursue lifes true meaning and values of the individual - essentially to make sense of the world he resides in. Casey closely resembles the character reference and motives of deliveryman Christ, as he is enthused to uncover the answers to his wonders and doubts and begins to hold new beliefs of sacrificing the self to gravel the rights of society. All the piece of music, questions concerning the ideas and beliefs of the world circulate through Jim Caseys discernment and he makes the purpose to separate himself from the teachings of society to determine logical resolutions to his convoluted uncertainties. After renouncing his argumentation as a preacher, Casey first decides to ponder his questions by going into the wilderness like Jesus and seeing if he can attain the spirit, while analyzing his thoughts (489-90). When others around him rarely observe ideas in depth, Casey transforms all of his thoughts into complex puzzles and seeks the answers undersize by little. Casey believes that by taking his ideas one piece at a time, he will one day be able to set upon the real truth. When he first hears of the conflict between the different social classes, Casey throws back his head and looks at the sharp stars in deep thought, his mind poring over the controversy (77). Caseys hours of analyzing bring his thoughts together and creates for him a larger quick-witted depth, which distinguishes his sole purpose from those around him. Light is used to exemplify Casey as Jesus Christ, holy and virtuous, and separate from other people. Even during insignificant situations, his character is expressed when the light of the coming morning made his forehead seem to shine, and his hands, swinging beside him, flicked into the light and out again (89). Caseys image as a holy figure automatically makes him a peacekeeper among the Joad family, and most of the time he succeeds in maintaining his title role. The members of the Joad family understand that Casey is not simply a former preacher, still is someone with vigorous aura and strong beliefs on the rights of people. When Casey talks to tom turkey by a fire one night, the firelight goes deep into his eyes and ignites florid embers, signifying his powerful presence (72).