Ontology

Ontology is defined as the study of existence, or being. In East of Eden, Samuel exhibits an interest in ontology. It is not enough for him to simply exist, he has to understand. He is always looking for purpose and grand explanations for why we are. He is studying his very existence. 

Similarly, Holden Caulfield in The Catcher in the Rye exhibits a desire to give meanings to the world around him. He cant see a real reason as to why we exist, and throughout the entirety of the novel is studying himself and his existence on this earth. He wants more than to just exist, he wants to understand the purpose of human existence. 

The Sage

Among the major archetypes identified by Carl Jung and observable in East of Eden and pop culture the Sage. In the case of East of Eden Samuel Hamilton plays the role of the sage. The sage archetype is also often referred to as the "mentor." Samuel fits this role perfectly, and he is even characterized directly by Steinbeck as "wise." Samuel is intelligent and capable, and mentors Adam Trask and helps him to learn to cultivate the land. He exhibits a constant desire to understand the world around him, just as the Sage is said to do. He mentions wanting to understand the bible rather than just to know it, despite his wife's isnsistence that there is nothing to understand. Samuel exhibits wisdom far exceeding that of any other character in the novel, as well as a superior understanding of self and a tendency to try to guide others down a path to help them succeed. Becuase of his vast knowledge in the context of the novel, Samuel falls within the archetype of the Sage in East of Eden. 

Similarly, Gandalf the Grey (and later the White) acts as the Sage in J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings trilogy. Just as Samuel acts as Adam's mentor, Gandalf serves as the mentor and guide of Frodo Baggins. Throughout the course of the series, Gandalf is one of very few characters who demonstrates a true understanding of the evil that the One Ring has brought to Middle Earth. He knows his purpose on Middle Earth: to guide Frodo to destroy the One Ring, and he carries it out diligently. He is constantly explaining to Frodo and his party what they need to do and where they need to go to help them to reach their goal. Gandalf's wisdom is essential in getting Frodo to Mount Doom, and without his help and advice Frodo never could have succeeded. The incredible wisdom and knowledge that Gandalf uses to aid the main characters in The Lord of the Rings clearly highlight the characteristics he displays that demonstrate his role as the Sage within the series.