Transcendental Philosophies (Chapters 11-15 Assignment-H)

Steinback explores one reoccurring theme in the very existence of every being: Transcendentalism. Steinback explores one main idea of transcendentalism using Biblical allusions through out the novel. He reveals to us the portrayal of Jim Casey as Jesus Christ to show his support of transcendentalstism: We as children learn that we should always help others, but yet, we should always rely on ourselves to get things done. Joad and the Family are given the opportunities to help others, yet, they think very carefully before doing them. Everyone has the opportunity, but they all think of the same conditions that prevent them from accomplishing it. We lack the ability to see that others need our help, and yet, we believe that it is moral. Steinback's argument is that we all need to choose the right moment to help each other, but not on our time, but the people we need help with.