Abstract:John Steinbeck is a significant writer in the 20th century. The Grapes of Wrath – a social critical novel – is one of his best works. Since eco-criticism was introduced into literary study, people began to interpret the book based on ecology. 

This thesis will analyze others’ researches to reveal Steinbeck’s ecological ideas from the perspective of eco-criticism. In particular, some parts of the thesis will combine Steinbeck’s ideas with Bible. This betters the understanding of the novel. The thesis will briefly introduce the background and main content of eco-criticism and explore the natural, social and spiritual crises embodied in the book. The natural crises are anthropocentrism and industrialization; the social crises are the capitalistic economy and egoism; and the spiritual crisis is the disillusionment of American dream. Steinbeck reveals these three crises and advocates collectivism and harmonious man-man and man-nature relationships. The thesis hopes to offer reference for today’s environmental protection.

Key words: John Steinbeck; Eco-criticism; Ecological Ideas; Bible; The Grapes of Wrath

Contents

Abstract

中文摘要

1. Introduction-1

2. Literature Review-2

3. An Introduction to Eco-criticism-4

4. Steinbeck’s Social Ecological Ideas in The Grapes of Wrath-6

4.1 Opposition to Anthropocentrism-6

4.2 Denouncing the Industrial Civilization-7

4.3 Criticizing Capitalistic Economy-8

4.4 Reprehending Egoism and Advocating Collectivism-10

4.5 Expressing the Disillusionment of American Dream-11

5. Conclusion-13

Works Cited-15