Of Mice and Men

Definition

Of Mice and Men is a novella written by John Steinbeck, published in 1937, that tells the story of two displaced ranch workers, George and Lennie, during the Great Depression in California. The novella explores themes of friendship, dreams, and the harsh realities of life for itinerant workers, all while reflecting the social issues of the time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The novella is set against the backdrop of the Great Depression, which shaped the experiences and struggles of its characters.
2. George and Lennie's dream of owning a piece of land symbolizes the pursuit of the American Dream, highlighting both hope and disillusionment.
3. Lennie, who has a mental disability, represents vulnerability and innocence amidst a cruel world, while George embodies the burdens of responsibility.
4. The themes of loneliness and isolation are prevalent throughout the story, as many characters face their own struggles with connection and belonging.
5. Of Mice and Men has been adapted into multiple films and stage productions, showcasing its enduring relevance and impact on American literature.

Review Questions

• How do George and Lennie's relationship illustrate the themes of friendship and responsibility in Of Mice and Men?
  • George and Lennie's relationship is central to the novella, showcasing a deep bond that reflects both friendship and responsibility. George acts as a caretaker for Lennie, who relies on him for guidance and protection due to his mental challenges. This dynamic highlights the struggles faced by individuals during the Great Depression, where companionship offers both emotional support and practical survival in an unforgiving world.
• Discuss how Steinbeck uses setting to enhance the themes presented in Of Mice and Men.
  • Steinbeck carefully crafts the setting of California's ranches during the Great Depression to amplify the novella's themes. The barren landscapes symbolize the harsh realities faced by itinerant workers, while places like the bunkhouse reflect isolation and loneliness among characters. The contrast between dreams of land ownership and the starkness of their environment serves to highlight the fragility of hope in a time of economic despair.
• Evaluate the portrayal of the American Dream in Of Mice and Men and its implications for understanding social realities in 1930s America.
  • In Of Mice and Men, Steinbeck critiques the American Dream by showcasing how George and Lennie's aspiration for land ownership remains unattainable due to societal constraints. The novella reveals that while hard work is often touted as a path to success, economic hardship and systemic barriers make it nearly impossible for many to achieve their dreams. This portrayal invites readers to reflect on broader social inequalities in 1930s America, emphasizing that not everyone has equal access to opportunities for success.

Related terms

The Great Depression: A severe worldwide economic downturn that lasted from 1929 to the late 1930s, which resulted in widespread unemployment and poverty, deeply influencing the lives of many Americans.

Social Realism: A literary movement that aims to represent everyday life and social conditions, often highlighting the struggles of working-class individuals.

American Dream: The national ethos of the United States, centered on the idea that anyone can achieve success and upward mobility through hard work and determination, often critiqued in Steinbeck's work.