Throughout history there have been countless examples of strength, on an individual and collective scale. There have been fearless leaders and courageous survivors who have accomplished incredible feats of strength and valor. The one thing that all powerful heroes and heroines have in common is their support, given to them by friends, family and those who share the common goal. John Steinbeck's The Grapes of Wrath is no exception. As the Joads inch closer to their prosperous life in sunny California, they grow as a family, learning that when someone is going through hard times, it's always best to wrap them in support. In the cases of Ma and Tom Joad, who drastically affect the group dynamic, it becomes very clear that being surrounded by loving family members who support a similar cause is what keeps the group confident and secure. In every family, having a maternal figure present makes for a healthier lifestyle. This is certainly true for the Joad family, where Ma Joad holds the group together, giving them the courage to continue on their long journey....