1. Surface Level: This level focuses on the literal plot and characters. You'd analyze the story of the Joads, their journey, and the events that unfold.
2. Social and Economic Level: This level examines the novel's commentary on the Dust Bowl, the Great Depression, and the exploitation of the working class. It explores themes of poverty, migration, and the power dynamics between workers and wealthy landowners.
3. Psychological Level: This level delves into the characters' inner lives, motivations, and the impact of their experiences on their psyche. It explores themes of family, resilience, and the human capacity for both compassion and cruelty.
4. Symbolic and Allegorical Level: This level interprets the novel as a broader commentary on humanity and society. It examines the use of symbolism (like the turtle, the land, or the grapes) and its connections to universal themes like hope, faith, and the search for meaning.
5. Theological and Existential Level: This level explores the novel's philosophical and religious dimensions. It examines the Joads' faith in God, the search for justice, and the enduring human spirit in the face of suffering.
It's important to note that these levels are not mutually exclusive. A reader can engage with the novel on multiple levels simultaneously. In fact, a deeper understanding often arises from combining different interpretative approaches.
Rather than thinking of "levels", it's helpful to think of *The Grapes of Wrath* as a rich and complex text that offers multiple layers of meaning and can be read and reread with new insights each time.