John Steinbeck is a Nobel laureate who is known for his famous literary works, such as Grapes of Wrath, East of Eden, and Of Mice and Men. To The God Unknown is his lesser-known work; however, it is one of the best fantasy novels. The book also captures theological shifts, which highlights the clash of two different structures of faith.
To The God, Unknown is a harrowing story that blends gain and tragedy. It also has a significant meaning and message that goes throughout. So, let’s explore the ideas behind John Steinbeck’s classic.
To The God Unknown By John Steinbeck
The book was published in 1933, and it took John five years to finish the project. The story follows the life of Joseph, who claims land near the San Antonio Valley after convincing his father, John. However, he learns that his father died while he was on his way to build a ranch with his worker friend Juanito.
He called his brothers to the same place, and they came with their families. Soon after everything took place, Joseph found a deep affection for a large oak tree on his land. It reminded him of his dead father, and he talked to the giant plant on various occasions.
Burton, the eldest brother, realized his small brother’s pagan beliefs and cut the tree. After that, he left the place with his family. Later, the famine came, and the land became dry and arid. Joseph blamed his brother for such a situation, so he cut the tree. However, Joseph found his faith restored in a moss rock near the stream.
Religious Clash Of Faith
Christianity was the prominent faith of John’s family, but Burton was upset when Joseph practised it. The story portrays the struggles when two faiths clash. As far as life is concerned, no one wins in such battles, which is apparent in the ending when Joseph sacrifices himself for his land.
Message Of To A God Unknown By John Steinbeck
The book tries to capture the way in which faith spreads and collides with existing ones. Moreover, it explores the relationship between one’s fundamentals and human conscience upon witnessing change.
Final Thoughts on To The God Unknown By John Steinbeck
To A God Unknown is a great book that captures the consciences of two different religions and how such aspects of diverse faith cause cracks even in the nuclear units of families and societies.
It is one of John Steinbeck’s best works, and one should read it. Finally, the book has many aspects that are pretty fascinating to the reader.
Frequently Ask Questions (FAQs)
What is to a god unknown about?
To a God, Unknown is about a ranch owner whose life turned dark when famine struck the country. However, his faith is the only thing that clings to him to a hopeful and better future.
Who is Rama in To a God Unknown?
Rama is Thomas’s wife and the elder brother of Joseph, the protagonist of the story. She helped Elizabeth, Joseph’s wife, during her labour and also adopted John, Joseph’s son, after Elizabeth’s death.
How long does it take to read to a god unknown?
It takes around 3-4 hours to read the book, which is 140-170 pages long, depending on the publisher.
Where is to a god unknown set?
The story is based in Nuestra Señora, in the Santa Lucia mountain range of San Antonio Valley.
