Episode 85: Maw, triptych, obelus, and more…

Published in 1939, 'The Grapes of Wrath' is a powerful and poignant novel by John Steinbeck. It tells the story of the Joad family, Oklahoma tenant farmers who are forced to leave their home after the devastating effects of the Dust Bowl and the Great Depression. The novel follows their arduous journey along Route 66 to California, where they face numerous hardships, including poverty, exploitation, and the loss of family members. The book explores themes of family, survival, and the struggle for human dignity in the face of overwhelming adversity. It also delves into the broader social and economic issues of the time, highlighting the conflict between the powerful and the powerless. Steinbeck's work is known for its vivid portrayal of the human condition and its impact on American literature and society.

Published in 1900, 'Sister Carrie' by Theodore Dreiser is a seminal work of American naturalism. The novel tells the story of Carrie Meeber, an 18-year-old woman who moves from a small town in Wisconsin to Chicago and later New York City, where she transforms from a struggling factory worker into a successful actress. The narrative also follows George Hurstwood, a married man who runs away with Carrie, only to descend into poverty and despair. The book is a powerful commentary on the American Dream, the pitfalls of capitalism, and the changing roles of women in society. It is known for its gritty and realistic portrayal of urban life, highlighting themes of ambition, morality, and the determinism of social and economic forces.