Al Joad and Aggie Wainwright

The Grapes of Wrath

Depicts the budding romance between Al Joad and Aggie Wainwright, representing hope and continuity for the next generation.

increasingupBearing stren­gth in each eventdowndecreasing
The MeetingThe Meeting
The Attraction The First Sight Al Joad sees Aggie Wainwright at the boxcar camp. He is immediately attracted. He begins to court her. The Courtship They meet every night. Al is smitten. Aggie is shy but interested. Their relationship develops quickly. The Commitment Al decides he wants to marry her. He tells his family. He is ready to settle down.
The EngagementThe Engagement
The Promise The Announcement Al announces his intention to marry Aggie. The families are pleased. Ma Joad and Mrs. Wainwright celebrate with pancakes. The Plans Al plans to get a job in a garage. He and Aggie will live in a rented house. They are optimistic. The Support The families support the union. It is a sign of hope. The next generation will carry on.
The TestThe Test
The Loyalty The Flood When the flood comes, Al refuses to leave without Aggie. He is loyal to her. He will stay with her. The Compromise Ma Joad asks Al to stay until spring. He agrees. His commitment to Aggie is firm. The Future Al and Aggie represent continuity. Their love is a counterpoint to the tragedy. The family will continue through them.
at the boxcar camp
at the boxcar camp, before the flood
during the flood