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TOM JOAD: Tom is a central character, and perhaps the one who develops most - and survives-in the novel. When Tom got out of prison, he was only interested in his own personal comforts and wants. He didn't feel guilty or ashamed of what he had done. Tom is a rather steady person who doesn't like to be pushed around. He likes his individuality and his independence. So when he see his independence or freedom endangered, he turns towards violence (e.g. the cops who pushed him around). First, he doesn't appreciate Casy's words, but after his death and after Tom has had to hide in the cave and brush, he has time to think over the things that Casy has said. Tom recognizes that man cannot live alone, that they must join together with other men because strength comes from unity. During the novel, Tom moves from a strictly independent way to a devotion to the family. He is going to carry on the work of Jim Casy. But Tom thinks Casy was perhaps too much a talker and too much an idealist. It will be left for Tom to carry out in practical ways the theoretical aspects of Casy's philosophy. | |||
