Physical Characteristics

Seen by others: "Ma was heavy, but not fat; thick with childbearing and work. She wore a loose Mother Hubbard of gray cloth in which there had once been colored flowers, but the color was washed out now (...). The dress came down to her ankles, and her strong, broad, bare feet moved quickly and defly over the floor. Her thin, steelgray hair was gathered in a spare wispy knot at the back of her head. Strong, freckled arms were bare to the elbow, and her hands were chubby and delicate, like those of a plump little girl. Her full face was not soft; it was controlled, kindly. Her hazel eyes seemed to have experienced all possible tragedy and to have mounted pain and suffering like steps into a high calm and undercitadel of the family". (Steinbeck, pg.74). "The preacher said, "She looks tar'd."" (Steinbeck, pg. 108). These descriptions clearly explain the physical characteristics of Ma Joad. She is an aged women, who's entire factions show her rough and strong life experiences. She is simple and secure; and her roughness in her face show her hard work and dedication for her family, thus she is always tired but calm.
----Alejandra Lopez and Daniela Antillon