John Steinbeck's "Grapes of Wrath" is strongly related to the idea of the human condition through the way that the strength and dignity of the human spirit often overcomes human suffering. Steinbeck narrates the story of the Joads, who initially leave the Oklahama dust bowl in search of better hopes and dreams, only to face bitter oppression as they are confront their broken dreams and shattered illusions and are forced to move from camp to camp. Steinbeck tackles the universal themes of broken hopes, shattered illusions and the strength and dignity of the human spirit through his plotline, characterisation and imagery.

The idea of the strength and dignity of the human spirit is showcased at several points within the novel, often in relation to instances of intense human suffering. Initially, the responder visualizes the struggle that the peoples of the Oklahama dust bowl are forced to suffer when...