I was just rereading the Genesis post from a few days ago and it got me to thinking about Biblical allusions. Probably the most common Biblical allusions in literature are to Christ. Is there a Christ figure in this book? If so, in what way does the character resemble Christ?
If not, what kind of hero does Steinbeck give us and why do you suppose Steinbeck might have stayed away from that particular allusion?
I know that some of you have more of a Biblical background than others, so if you see any other Biblical allusions, please share them with the rest of us. Allusions might be direct references to Biblical things such as Methusela (p 52) or just commonalities between the characters, events, and settings of the two texts. What purpose does it serve to include these things in the book? How does it add to the overall experience and meaning of the book?
And of course, the Bible isn't the only thing an author might allude to. Did anyone notice the mention of Othello's handkerchief (169)? Or Hercules (197)? Why do you think these were included? What do they contribute to your understanding of the book?
I'm sure there are more allusions--What can you find?
Just to be totally clear, this is not one of those times when the teacher has an answer that you're supposed to find. I don't have an answer-- I have lots of questions. I'd like us to read, research, and discuss together. I'm excited to hear what you find!
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Ah ha! I found an allusion to Christ already!
ReplyDelete"An unbelieved truth can hurt a man much more than a lie. It takes great courage to back truth unacceptable to our times. There's a punishment for it, and it's usually crucifixion."
What does this contribute to your understanding of the book?
Another allusion... what is the 6th day in Eden and what does it tell you about Tom?
ReplyDeleteTom came headlong into life. He was a giant in joy and enthusiasms. He didn't discover the world and its people, he created them. When he read his father's books, he was the first. He lived in a world shining and fresh and as uninspected as Eden on the sixth day.