She walked for the family and held her head straight for the family…And Granma looked straight ahead, proudly, for she was on show now.
– John Steinbeck
The Grapes of Wrath, Chapter 13. Family matriarch Granma Joad presents a composed and proud figure, as she walks out of the Wilsons’ tent with her head held high. This is moments after Grampa Joad dies from a stroke in the tent, while Jim Casy offers up a Christian prayer at Granma’s request. Themes of dignity and family are on display here.