John Steinbeck’s 1936 novel, a work of proletarian literature, depicts the struggles of migrant agricultural workers in California during the Great Depression. It offers a stark portrayal of labor exploitation and the desperate fight for fair treatment and livable wages, focusing on the organization of a strike and the complex interpersonal dynamics within the worker community. The title derives from a passage in John Milton’s Paradise Lost, highlighting the moral ambiguity inherent in conflicts where the lines between right and wrong are blurred.
This powerful narrative provides valuable insights into the socio-economic conditions of the era, exploring themes of poverty, social injustice, and the power of collective action. It serves as a historical record of labor movements in the United States, shedding light on the challenges faced by marginalized communities. The novel’s enduring relevance lies in its exploration of universal human experiences of struggle, resilience, and the search for dignity.
