1. Symbol of Oppression and Exploitation:
* The handbills are a blatant tool of the wealthy landowners. They represent their power and their disregard for the plight of the migrant workers.
* The yellow color itself becomes a symbol of warning and fear, representing the threat of violence and the dangers the migrants face.
2. Propaganda and Fearmongering:
* The handbills contain exaggerated and often untrue information about the migrants, portraying them as criminals and undesirables. This serves to turn public opinion against them and justify their displacement.
* They spread misinformation, creating a climate of fear and distrust between the migrants and the local communities.
3. Manipulation and Control:
* The handbills are designed to manipulate the migrants, discourage them from seeking work, and keep them desperate and submissive.
* By spreading rumors of labor shortages and making false promises, the landowners control the labor market and keep wages low.
4. Reflecting the Harsh Reality of the Depression:
* The handbills illustrate the desperation and vulnerability of the migrants during the Dust Bowl and Great Depression.
* They reveal the stark contrast between the wealthy landowners who profit from the crisis and the suffering of those who are forced to flee their homes.
5. Foreshadowing and Tension:
* The handbills create a sense of unease and foreshadow the challenges and dangers the Joad family will face on their journey.
* Their constant presence serves as a reminder of the hostile environment they are navigating.
In essence, the yellow handbills are not merely a plot device but a potent symbol of the injustices and challenges faced by the migrant workers in *The Grapes of Wrath*. They represent the power dynamics, manipulation, and fear that define the story and contribute to the themes of social inequality, exploitation, and the struggle for survival.