eir case it turns out completely different.There is a symbolic significance in the names of characters throughout The Grapes of Wrath. Tom, one of the main characters, is hitchhiking home when he stumbles upon a preacher by the name of Jim Casey. Jim baptized Tom, but now he is no longer preaching because he has found that everything is holy and man needs no preacher. Jims initials are J.C., which are the same as Jesus Christ. Jim shows similar characteristics to Jesus Christ. He sacrifices himself for Tom. Tom has caused a deputy to loose his suspect and is said to be under arrest, but Casey steps in and takes the blame. It was me, alright (p.364). Casey is taken by two deputies, but appears to be proud because he knows he has done the right thing. This scene is very similar to the bibles portrayal of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Between his guards Casey sat proudly, his head up and the stringy muscles of his neck prominent (p.364). He gives up his freedom so the Joads can accomplish their dreams as a family. Tom then meets Muley Graves, an old neighbor. Muley shows animal-like characteristics and acts like a mule. Just like a mule, Muley is stubborn. He refuses to leave his land after he has already lost it. Ill be aroun till hell freezes over. There aint nobody can run a guy named Graves outa this country. An they aint done it, neither (p.62). Muleys last name symbolizes death and the fact that he is to die on his land. Everyone is tractored off of the land, except for him. Winfield is young and his name hints to the reader that he might win the fields back from the rich bankers down the line. He is capable of working the land and may be the first farmer of the next generation of the Joad family. Ruthie is, in fact, very ruthless. She is very cruel and finds it hard to share her belongings, which is uncharacteristic of the Joad family. She was nibbling on some cracker jacks when some kids came and asked f...
