Quote 4
[Ma Joad:] "I'm learning one thing good," she said. "Learnin' it all the time, ever' day. If you're in trouble or hurt or need – go to poor people. They're the only ones that'll help – the only ones." (26.529)
Why will poor people help in times of need more than people with money? How does wealth change people?
Quote 5
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 6
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?