The Grapes of Wrath, Chapter 1 summary
Chapter 1 of 16 · 9 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 1, the Stonewalls approach an expected attack, leave an orchard threatened by German shells, and settle among farm buildings beside an artillery battery. Four friends watch the guns at work and learn that the shells are clearing barbed wire before the infantry advances.
What happens
- The Stonewalls march toward louder artillery fire while conflicting rumors spread about their part in an expected attack.
- Shells pass over their orchard camp, and an artillery subaltern offers shelter among farm buildings across the road.
- The battalion moves, and C Company settles in a barn already damaged by shellfire.
- Billy Simson, Larry Arundel, Ben Sneath, and Jefferson Lee watch the nearby battery and reveal contrasting backgrounds and attitudes.
- Arundel explains how observers direct unseen targets, and a gunner says the battery is cutting wire.
- Arundel connects the bombardment with their expected advance, while Pug and Kentucky hope it also destroys machine guns.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Arundel links the artillery spectacle to the infantry’s expected movement. His explanation makes the bombardment directly relevant to the four friends.
Quick check
What task does the passing gunner say the battery is performing?
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