Of Mice and Men: Analysis of Major Characters
"Of Mice and Men" is a novella by John Steinbeck that explores the lives of two displaced workers during the Great Depression, focusing on their dreams, struggles, and interpersonal relationships. Central to the story are Lennie Small and George Milton. Lennie, a physically strong but mentally challenged man, aspires to own a farm with George, who is small and wiry, taking on the role of caretaker and protector. Their bond reflects themes of friendship and the fragility of dreams.
Another significant character is Candy, an aging ranch hand, who sees hope in their dream and wishes to join them, offering his savings. Curley, the ranch owner's aggressive son, represents the oppressive social dynamics, as he seeks to assert his dominance and ultimately faces tragic consequences due to his interactions with Lennie. Slim, the skilled worker on the ranch, serves as a voice of reason and empathy, while Crooks, the only black character, initially displays skepticism but is softened by Lennie’s innocence.
The novella delves into the complexities of human relationships and the harsh realities faced by marginalized individuals, making it a poignant reflection on loneliness and aspiration.
Of Mice and Men: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: John Steinbeck
First published: 1937
Genre: Novel
Locale: Salinas Valley, California
Plot: Impressionistic realism
Time: Twentieth century
Lennie Small, a simple-minded man of great size and strength. His dream is to have a chicken and rabbit farm with his friend George Milton and to be allowed to feed the rabbits. George tells him about the farm over and over and keeps Lennie in line by threatening not to let him feed the rabbits. The two men are hired to buck barley on a ranch. Lennie crushes the hand of the owner's son, kills a puppy while stroking it, and breaks a woman's neck, all unintentionally.
George Milton, Lennie's friend, a small and wiry man. He assumes responsibility for his simple friend and in the new job does the talking for both. At last, after the unintentional killing by Lennie, George knows that he can no longer save his friend; after telling him once again of their plan for the farm, he shoots him.
Candy, a swamper on the barley ranch. He makes George's and Lennie's dream seem possible, for he has three hundred and fifty dollars and wants to join them.
Curley, the son of the ranch owner. Vain of his ability as a prizefighter and jealous of his slatternly bride, he provokes Lennie into squeezing his hand. Pleased that Curley's hand has been broken, his wife comes to make advances to Lennie, who accidentally kills her.
Slim, the jerkline skinner on the ranch. He gives Lennie the puppy and persuades Curley to say his hand was caught in a machine.
Crooks, the black stable hand. Cool to Lennie at first, he is disarmed by Lennie's innocence.