Jim Casy's Destiny

Follows Jim Casy's journey from a guilt-ridden preacher to a secular prophet and martyr for the migrant cause.

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The Fallen Preacher

The Crisis of Faith The Confession Jim Casy confesses to Tom Joad that he has lost his calling. He used to preach and then sleep with young women. He feels like a hypocrite. He has gone into the wilderness to think. The New Philosophy Casy has developed a new belief: there is no sin, only human actions. He believes all people are part of one big soul. He loves people, not Jesus. He is no longer a preacher. The Search Casy decides to join the migrants. He wants to learn from them. He is searching for a new purpose. His journey is spiritual and political.

The Sacrifice

The Arrest The Confrontation When Floyd Knowles escapes, the deputy is about to shoot. Casy kicks the deputy and takes the blame. He is arrested. He sacrifices himself to protect Tom and Floyd. The Jail Time Casy is sent to jail. There he learns more about the struggle. He meets other prisoners and understands the system. His time in jail radicalizes him. The Release Casy is released and joins the strike at the Hooper ranch. He becomes a leader. His philosophy now includes collective action. He is ready to fight for justice.

The Martyrdom

The Death The Leadership Casy leads the striking peach pickers. He speaks of unity and the need for change. He is targeted by vigilantes. The Killing Vigilantes attack the strikers' camp. Casy is caught. He tells them they don't know what they're doing. A man kills him with a pick handle. Casy dies for the cause. The Legacy Casy's death inspires Tom Joad to take up his mission. Tom kills the vigilante and becomes a fugitive. Casy's philosophy lives on. He is a martyr for the migrant movement.

early in the story

at the Hooverville

at the Hooper ranch strike