American+Themes

//East of Eden// is a primary example of how American literature shapes the American experience, but is also influenced by it. Likewise, the American experience is depicted within John Steinbeck's writing of the evolution in the Salinas Valley. Steinbeck embraces the cultural configuration of the stereotypical hard working American family. The writing embraces a time of ethical and moral confrontation between the characters and their own selves.

Throughout the story, characters such as the Hamilton family portray the immigrated American family in the late 1800s. Leaving the famine in their home country of Ireland, they move into the Salinas Valley and begin farming and working odd jobs to make a living. The Hamiltons move without much money, and their land is dry, so they make enough to live on, but never to earn a large profit. Steinbeck uses characters in his story such as the Hamiltons to illustrate the struggles of immigrants and lower class America, and to also portray the lower-class, hardworking American. However, to contrast this, the Trask family represents the fortune of inheriting a vast amount of money without earning it respectably. Cyrus lies about his military experience in order to earn a higher position in the military. When Adam loses his money Caleb earns it back by conning local farmers. Steinbeck uses theses characters to help portray the timeless battle between the upper class and lower class in America, as well as the contrast between hardworking Americans and those who earn money unfairly through corruption and inheritance.

To further embody American beliefs, Steinbeck uses the power of religious connections to pull the reader in. The ever popular and controversial story of Adam and Eve is a suggested underlying theme throughout //East of Eden.// For example, Cathy is believed to resemble sin and the temptation of evil as she pursues her strange life journey in the book. There are different versions of the story of Adam and Eve depending on the religion and version of Bible, and Steinbeck values the Old Testament in his writing. Because of this he is able to connect with every religion and even has his characters discuss different meanings. America is perceived to be a melting pot of cultures and religious beliefs, hence allowing Steinbeck's theme to strike a passion within every reader.

The unfortunate circumstances, positive and negative effects resulting from World War I, are able to be read about in this classic book. From the psychotic meltdowns of soldiers, the economic downfalls families endure, the sexual evolution of females and the conflict of moral obligation Steinbeck showcases the legendary parts of American history. Not only is //East of Eden// a published statement of American culture but it also represents an important piece of American history.