symbolism in Grapes of Wrath

I noticed the most, and in my opinion, best examples of symbolism in The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinback. First, Rose of Sharon't pregnancy was an important one. It represents a new start for the Joad family. Many of their group died or left. The new baby would fill in a hole and give them a second chance. Also, it represents the next piece of the family coming through. The grandparents had died but this baby would be the next generation.
Second, The Joad family's dog was hit by a car. This was important because it was a wake up call for them. They had thought that everything would be perfect in California. They assumed the people would be nice, their would be lots of work, and they would fit in well. The dog getting hit showed that things would not be as they had dreamed. in fact, things would be exactly the opposite for them.
Finally, the last piece of symbolism shows how mankind never gives up. The Joads and thousands of other familes had lost virtually everything. They had little money and supplies. However, they held their heads up and kept moving forward. When they realized California was not what they had thought, they did their best to find work and food. The locals and the police were cruel to them but they didn't let their spirits fall. This shows how mankind never gives up even when things are going poorly for them. Steinback showed how miserable things were for the joads and other families but at the same time shows how they still have pride.