John Steinbeck - In Dubious Reputation

Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)

• I. Steinbeck on writing
• I.1. Steinbeck's rudimentary suggestions for the beginner
• I.2. The Art and Craft of Writing
• I.3. Steinbeck's 1962 Nobel Prize Acceptance Speech
• II. Life and works
• II.1. Origin
• II.2. Family
• II.3. Graduation
• II.4. Taking a risk
• II.4.1. “Cup of Gold”, A Life of Henry Morgan, Buccaneer, 1929
• II.4.1.1. The plot
• II.4.1.2. Interpretation
• II.4.1.3. Critics
• II.5. The marriage
• II.5.1. The Pastures of Heaven, 1932
• II.5.1.1 The plot
• II.5.1.2. Interpretation
• II.5.1.3. Critics
• II.5.2. “To a God Unknown”, 1933
• II.5.2.1. The plot
• II.5.2.2. Interpretation
• II.6. Success
• II.6.1. “Tortilla Flat”- “the funny ones”
• II.6.1.1 The plot
• II.6.1.2. Interpretation
• II.6.1.3. Critics
• II.7. Steinbeck and the Working Men
• II.7.1 “In Dubious Battle, 1936
• II.7.1.1. The plot
• II.7.1.2. Interpretation
• II.7.1.3. Critics
• II.7.2. “..and make it angrily”
• II.7.2.1 “The Harvest Gypsies”
• II.7.2.2. “I'm mad about that”
• II.7.2.3. “..a dirty, lying, filthy manuscript”
• II.7.8 The later years
• III. Conclusion
• III.1. Symbolism
• III.2. Non teleological thinking
• III.3. The Common Man
• III.4. Determinism
• III.4. Political Statement

Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)

This study aims to explore and analyze the multifaceted aspects of John Steinbeck's literary works. It delves into his background, writing style, and thematic choices, shedding light on his motivations and intentions as an author. By examining specific novels and short stories, the study seeks to understand how Steinbeck's works reflect his evolving perspective and artistic vision.

• The impact of Steinbeck's personal experiences on his literary output.
• Steinbeck's evolving writing style and the diverse genres he explored.
• The recurring themes of social injustice, human resilience, and the search for meaning in Steinbeck's works.
• Steinbeck's portrayal of the working class and his engagement with political and social issues.
• The critical reception of Steinbeck's works and the contrasting interpretations of his literary contributions.

Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)

The first chapter of the study examines Steinbeck's views on writing, highlighting his rudimentary suggestions for aspiring authors. It analyzes his emphasis on the accumulation of detail, allowing the form to emerge organically, and his belief in the importance of capturing the essence of experience. The chapter further explores Steinbeck's candid discussions about the creative process, his advice to other writers, and his commitment to crafting stories that entertain and teach.

Chapter two delves into Steinbeck's personal life and its influence on his work. It traces his origins, family background, and educational experiences, exploring how these factors shaped his perspective and artistic sensibilities. The chapter also examines Steinbeck's early novels, such as "Cup of Gold," "Pastures of Heaven," and "To a God Unknown," analyzing their themes, stylistic innovations, and reception by critics. The study explores the evolution of Steinbeck's writing as he moved from historical fiction to exploring themes of social justice and the plight of the working class.

Chapter three focuses on Steinbeck's engagement with social and political issues, specifically his portrayal of the struggles faced by workers and the injustices they endure. The chapter examines "In Dubious Battle," a novel that vividly depicts the clash between workers and employers during the Great Depression. It analyzes the novel's themes of class conflict, labor movements, and the complexities of social change. The chapter further explores Steinbeck's involvement in social activism, his writing about the plight of migrant workers, and his persistent advocacy for those marginalized by society.

Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)

The key terms and concepts of this study include John Steinbeck, American literature, social realism, working class, social injustice, class conflict, literary themes, writing style, critical reception, and the impact of personal experiences on artistic expression. The study explores Steinbeck's literary legacy and his enduring contribution to understanding the complexities of human nature and social issues.