Catharsis for John Steinbeck : Understanding To a God Unknown

Moore provides a unique take on Steinbeck's most anomalous novel. To a God Unknown is a satire belittling Joseph Campbell, the man who had a brief affair with John's wife Carol in 1932. The book is full of jokes and insults aimed at Campbell. Along the way, Steinbeck also mocks realism, the idea of patriarchy, the idea of the Noble Savage, and parodies heroic tales. Steinbeck also uses much Anthropology, psychology, and local folklore, making the story a satirical allegory.