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The Grapes of Wrath, Chapter 14 summary

Chapter 14 of 16 · 8 min to read the chapter

In Chapter 14, Kentucky and Pug expect relief after the fighting, but a shell wounds them both and forces a difficult journey toward medical care. As stretcher-bearers carry Pug past German dead and prisoners, Kentucky recalls a childhood hymn and connects the battlefield destruction with punishment for Germany.

What happens

  1. Kentucky and Pug share captured food and water, expect relief, and hear an uncertain report that Larry is among the casualties.
  2. An incoming shell knocks both friends unconscious, leaving Pug severely wounded and Kentucky with several injuries.
  3. Kentucky refuses a stretcher and struggles beside Pug while bearers carry him through shellfire and stray bullets.
  4. As daylight fades, a bearer gives Pug an opiate and marks his cheek to record the dose.
  5. Passing German dead and prisoners, Kentucky recalls a hymn and sees the destruction as punishment for Germany.
  6. They reach the trench leading to the dressing station as renewed gunfire echoes Kentucky’s thoughts of wrath.

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In this chapter

KentuckyPugLarry

What to notice

Pug treats their wounds as a chance to return home together. His hope contrasts with the shellfire that still threatens them.

Quick check

Why does a stretcher-bearer mark a blue cross on Pug’s cheek?

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