Character Nobility in the Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck

In the Grapes of Wrath, John Steinbeck displays the Joads as characters of nobility. Each family member shows an essence of character, courage, generosity, or honor. People who carry the trait of nobility are looked up to. They are the people who change for the best, who attempt many tasks, and who are there for the benefit of others. The will to put aside any desires for another person displays sincere nobility. "When somepin happens …

…helpless stranger. She was the key to his life by being able to use her moral, mental, and physical strength for the well being of another. The Rose of Sharon who began as a self-interested girl developed into a generous, courageous, noblewoman. She brought herself up to the level of the other Joads, the platform of nobility, by having the will to change and proving there is hope and spirit in the most unpromising situations.