Themes (F) Chapters 1-10

The theme of blame is prominent in The Grapes Of Wrath as characters suffer the consequences of others decisions.

"...as though the Bank or the company were a monster, with thought and feeling which had ensnared them." (p.31)

This quote early on in the book begins to demonstrate the character's need to bring blame onto others, especially large groups with power. Since they are powerless under the control of a company or a bank, they feel that their fate is out of their hands. Even if their current state of living was brought on from themselves, it is much easier to claim that it is someone else's fault.

Blame, both in the text and in life, is often used as a justification for one's actions, or a lack of someone taking responsibility in a situation.

"The bank is something more than men, I tell you. It's the monster. Men made it, but they can't control it." (p.33)

The theme of blaming a higher power is common in the lower class. Not only can this higher power be a group or company that is wealthy, but a higher power can also be a God, and a lack of belief following tragic events that shatter their faith.