The Grapes of Wrath

How has Ma Joad changed by chapter twenty-two?

Specifically how has she changed as a person.

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By Chapter 22 the Joads are worn out, hungry and depressed. Pretty much nothing has gone their way. Ma Joad doesn't have the same fight in her that she once had. The government camp is a god-send. Ma Joad is even shocked to hear Jim Rawley call her "Mrs." She has forgotten what it is to be treated with respect. Ma Joad even realizes how great an interruption the journey to California was. For the first time, she can comprehend the losses that the family has suffered and mourn the two deaths and two desertions. Before reaching the camp, her only concern had to be her own survival; the most important luxury that Ma Joad receives at the camp is introspection.