John Steinbeck’s America: ‘The Grapes of Wrath’ and ‘Of Mice and Men’ – clip

Joseph Luzzi / Bard College

In the eyes of many, John Steinbeck’s The Grapes of Wrath is a candidate for the “Great American Novel,” as it tells the unforgettable story of the Joad family and their journey from the Dust Bowl of their native Oklahoma to California in a desperate quest to find work and survive the challenges of the Great Depression. Similarly, his brief masterpiece Of Mice and Men remains a haunting tale of friendship and economic struggle that continues to enchant readers worldwide. This presentation will lead participants on a deep exploration of these two novels and consider what makes John Steinbeck’s vision of “America” come to life by transforming the notion of our national identity into remarkable narratives.