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.

Joseph Luzzi

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