Benevolent Actions

As it has been well explained, Ma Joad's main concerns are her family. Yet she is a living example of a true Samaritan: she believes in unity as a core necessity and thus commits herself entirely to the well being of others. She always puts her family first, but in several occasions it is seen that she is not exclusive and helps the people around her. She will never deny her help especially to those in need. Case one: The Wilsons: "Ma said, 'You won't be no burden. Each'll help each, an' we'll all git to California. Sairy Wilson he'ped lay Granpa out,' and she stopped. The relationship was plain." (Steinbeck, pg 148). - Ma knows that they will be more people to feed and take care of; yet they have been nice to her and so she is not willing to leave them behind. Case two: The Children at Hooverville: As Ma Joad is in Hooverville cooking for her family; a group of starving children set around her pot. She faces a serious issue, as she dwells with the necessities of her family and those of the children. As she finally gives in to her humility and generosity: as she feeds her family as little as necessary and leaves the rest to the children. (Steinbeck, pgs 256-257). This is a shocking image and experience for the entire family as well for the readers of the book.
----Dani Antillon and Alejandra Lopez