Expanding+Role+of+Women

As the novel progresses, it is clear that the women are stepping up as leaders of the family. Ma Joad begins to take charge in leading the family, keeping them united and safe, as well as showing Rose of Sharon how to be a leader as well. Ma Joad soon becomes the backbone of the family.

“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 took control of the situation,” (93-94). · Ma gave Tom the opportunity to take charge of the situation regarding Casey, but when Tom does not step up, she takes charge.

Another instance in which she takes charge is when she puts her foot down and refuses to go on without Tom. “’on’y way you gonna get me to go is whup me.’ She moved the jack handle gently again. ‘And’ I’ll shame you, Pa. I won’t take no whuppin’, cryin’ and a-beggin’. I’ll light into you. An’ you ain’t so sure you can whup me anyways…” (pg 168- 169). · This is a scene in which Ma stands her ground and refuses to follow the men’s decisions.

Is Ma diminishing Pa’s position as head of the family, or is she just taking responsibility as a mother and wife?

In one part of the novel, Pa is trying to decide what to do with the family’s money, and Ma voices her opinion and stands her ground. Eventually “Pa’s anger did not rise, and his hands hung limply at his sides. And in a moment the group knew that Ma had won,” (169). · This is when Ma shines her strength and leadership roles the most.

When Rose of Sharon becomes weak and depressed, Ma is the one to tell her to get over her depression and bad feelings. “Rosasharn, your jest one person, an’ they’s a lot of other folks. You git to your proper place. I knowed people built theirself up with sin till they figgered they was big mean shuks in the sight a the Lord… No. Jes’ shut up an’ git to work.You ain’t big enough or mean enough to worry God much. An’ I’m gonna give you the back of my han’if you don’ stop this pickin’ at yourself." (312). · Ma is basically telling Rose of Sharon that she is not the only person in the world and that she has to make a leader out of herself.

In what ways, if any, did Rose of Sharon become a better leader within the family?