“Of Mice and Men” Summary and Character Analyis Essay Example

and feels sadness. Despite Ellen's size, he doesn't know how to defend himself. During a confrontation with Curry, Ellen accidentally injures Curry's left hand, which he always keeps protected in a glove. Curious about the glove, Ellen inquires and learns that it keeps his hand soft for his wife. Meanwhile, Curry's right hand is his dominant hand for fighting, and Ellen unintentionally ruined it. When Curry's wife is killed, he shows no grief and only seeks revenge against Ellen. While at Crook's place, he expresses gratitude to Nils Welt for owning something, although it is not something he desires himself. He resents the fact that Ellen took away his possession. Crook represents the marginalized Negro population at the bottom of society during the era of segregation. He faces limited social opportunities due to his race and lives in the barn with the horses, equating him to the level of mules. He is socially isolated and lacks access to social privileges. The name "Crook" refers to his physical deformity, as his back is twisted.

Working separately from the men, Crook's main responsibility on the farm is to care for the horses as their veterinarian. He carries the burden of blame within the farm, a reflection of the time period in which the novel is set. Prior to the era of segregation, the term "enigma" was used. Despite this, Crook views the farm as a place of equality, expecting to be treated with dignity. What makes Crook particularly interesting is his intellectual prowess, surpassing that of others on the farm. He possesses extensive knowledge in the field of law, having read about the United States declaring equality

for all individuals without distinction. However, in the current 21st century, Americans find this word highly offensive.

Despite sitting alone in his room, he possesses the most skill on the farm. His expertise lies in crafting harnesses and saddles for the horses, a task that demands considerable skill. Unfortunately, his abilities go unrecognized by the other individuals on the farm. While working alongside others fosters a sense of camaraderie and connection among them, this does not apply to Crook. He has resigned himself to a bleak future and regards any approaching individuals as potential threats, promptly pushing them away. He remains isolated within his own shell, fully aware that he could have pursued a different, more fulfilling life. Being educated and well-read, he possessed the potential to embark on various different paths.

Despite his old age, he is aware that if he falls for this dream, he will live a much better life. Although he is much smarter than Curlers wife, she constantly attempts to belittle him. Slim is the individual who holds true power on the farm. He is tall, dressed like everyone else, and possesses physical strength. There is a certain gravity in his demeanor that causes all conversations to cease when he speaks. It is uncertain whether Slim is 35 or 50 years old. His slow speech indicates something beyond mere thought. Though he does not appear often in the novel, he holds genuine authority and comprehends all the relationships among everyone.

He is the one who consistently appears and treats everyone equally, regardless of their race or age. He is the most skilled person on the farm and without him, the

team would not function properly. Only a few individuals possess the ability to execute tasks like him by using the whip's tip to kill a fly without touching the horse's rear. We are unaware of his exact age. Curlers wife is portrayed as a vamp-like character, similar to the evil attractive women frequently depicted during that time period. Steinbeck incorporated this vamp archetype along with women who worked cohesively with men, contributing significantly to Llano's work.

In the 19th century, there were many women who were spoiled and desired luxury, but did not possess it. Egyptian appearances were highly sought after during this time period. Because these women came from various countries, they often found themselves waking up in the beds of others, typically military officials. This allowed them to gather essential information and amass wealth rapidly.

The Book

The opening of the Book emphasizes nature over people, describing the peacefulness and detailed beauty of trees. It also highlights the concept of men being insignificant in comparison. The setting is detailed, creating a sense of solitude. On page 2, the first paragraph mentions men again and describes rabbits.

The significance of rabbits is mentioned, as George and Ellen join in and become aware of the harm humans cause to nature. George is described as walking heavily, dragging his feet like a bear. Ellen, on the other hand, is portrayed as an animal, specifically a horse, in the description on page 3 with water.

The text illustrates that George is a parent to Ellen, who is content with simple pleasures such as water. It further compares Ellen to an animal, specifically a dog

with its paw in the water. On page 4, George characterizes Ellen as a dog, suggesting that she would drink water from a gutter if she were thirsty like a deer.

George is viewed as a role model by Lennie as he mimics and emulates him. Lennie expresses dissatisfaction regarding being dropped off at the wrong location by the bus driver. Additionally, it is apparent that Ellen frequently forgets things. The book utilizes dialogue to provide comprehensive descriptions of the characters. Originally intended to be a play, Steinbeck employs repeated comparisons between Lennie and various animals (such as bears, horses, and terriers) to enhance the sense of impending doom. Throughout the story, animals meet untimely deaths, ranging from field mice to Candy's dog to Lennie's puppy. On page 5, it is mentioned that the government supplied bus tickets for their journey to the farm.

Murray ND Ready, a successful employment business, encounters a situation where pets are accidentally harmed on page 6. We also observe George discussing his current job with others, explicitly instructing Ellen to remain silent about it. On page 7, through further dialogue, it is revealed that Ellen performs well at work but George has the ability to assist him.

He behaves as if he is back in the womb. Throughout the book, it is constantly emphasized that George and Ellen are inseparable. "Good BOY" is said to Ellen, just as a parent would talk to their child. The book provides insight that something unfortunate occurred in the past, leading them to be on a different farm now. On page 8, it is revealed that George finds Ellen irritating and believes he

could accomplish more without him. However, he made a promise to his aunt to look after Ellen, and despite his reservations, he never hesitates to fulfill that commitment.

In the KICK women are auto dejects "I could nave a girl, have a car, have a phone". The snake symbolizes innocence. The ending parallels the beginning. There is a thrashing machine that puts all the grains in the hopper, then into a bag, and finally onto the wagon.
Page 9 - George sympathizes with Ellen.
Page 10 - We realize that George controls Ellen, like a dog. Another animal reference.
Page 11 - Aunt Clara enters.

Currently, the nature of George and Clara's relationship remains unknown. Carp holds some importance in the context. The presence of nature is a constant reminder. Ellen is unaware of George's true strength. On page 12, the focus is on Ellen's ability to annoy George.

He constantly ponders how different life would be without Ellen by his side. He could have squandered his $50 salary without restraint, but after becoming enraged, he eventually calms down and experiences a sense of guilt. He feels an intense drive to look after Ellen. On page 13, Ellen reflects that he is capable of surviving on his own.

He is a simple person who doesn't desire good food. Despite the fact that they are entirely different, they are accustomed to each other. The farm undergoes alterations. The novel consistently presents changes. There is an notion of a fairytale, something that George doesn't have faith in. This is evident when Ellen inquires about rabbits of different colors, giving us the impression of a fairytale. Transitioning from

a play script to a movie, there is a detailed description of the set. Page 19 offers a certain amount of imagery.

In terms of the play script's format, there is no direct writing present. However, there is a descriptive passage detailing the bunk house. This description provides us with the necessary information to easily adapt it into a play. On page 20, Candy is introduced by the old man, and it becomes apparent that Candy is missing a hand.

The text highlights that the term "soot" is an old-fashioned expression. An analogy is drawn to the bunkhouse being similar to an army house, with rough materials to sleep on like in a barrack. The bunkhouse is described as a transient place, with people coming and going. On page 21, a person leaves the bunkhouse without giving any reason. On page 22, the word "enigma" is used to refer to a crook, exposing its racist connotations.

These words can be used to compare today with the past, providing a way for contemporary readers to make connections. STEINBECK simply describes how people used to talk about black individuals. Candy is a non-judgmental person who can relate to Crook because he too has an injury. George is street-smart and knows to be cautious around certain individuals. On this page, Candy is introducing George to everyone. The concept of Christmas makes us perceive him as a kind person since he brought whisky. Moreover, we observe a great deal of racism in this section. I never speak ill of what was going on at that time. Additionally, we acknowledge the fact that Crook is an outsider due to his

blackness.

Paragraph 3- Steinbeck's portrayal of Crook is seen as racially discriminatory upon reading the entire book. The dream initially serves as motivation for Ellen, but it is now regarded as a myth by the characters because the reader knows it is unattainable. On page 23, the farm owner deliberately makes them wait, asserting his power and authority.

The boss is anticipating him to cover Ellen's expenses while also taking advantage of her. In the movie, there is a scene where he gets kicked in the head by a horse, but in the novel, it occurs earlier. Ellen has become isolated and often drifts into a daydream about the farm while others are engaged in conversation.

At the conclusion of the novel, we come to comprehend the protagonist's interpretation of the dream. The spurs and boots serve as a symbol that enhances Curler's height. On page 24, the boss expresses suspicion and questions George about potentially withholding his pay, as he doubts that one person would go through so much trouble for another.

The bosses in these places have a significant amount of power, and their power increased even more during the Great Depression. George is highly distrustful of Candy. The people on the farm work diligently but are unable to attain the American dream, despite the belief that hard work leads to success. This issue persists. On page 27, George displays aggressiveness towards everyone on the farm and dislikes others showing curiosity about his life. On page 28, Curler is characterized as an extremely aggressive individual.

Curler, although very short, demonstrates that short people can also be aggressive. Even Curler finds it strange

that George is looking after Ellen. On page 29, he is shown to be very protective of Ellen and dislikes the fact that Curler is angry at her without any reason. This indicates that there will be some kind of confrontation between Ellen and Curler in the future (foreshadowing). It also touches on the theme of solitariness on that page.

Everyone is evaluating and assessing one another to determine if physical contact is possible. Curler's wife may be engaging in flirtatious behavior for two possible motives: due to her isolation or because she is extremely desperate and unoccupied.

This passage contains a substantial amount of imagery and effectively conveys the events taking place. The dialogue is the main driver of the story, with no inner thoughts present. On page 33, it becomes evident that many elements are based on real events, lending a high level of realism to the narrative. The characters play a significant role in driving the story forward due to their authentic portrayal. It is likely that they are based on real individuals, given Steinbeck's personal experiences, resulting in their accurate depiction. Furthermore, the word "Red" serves as a recurring motif throughout the text.

This passage highlights the dangerous nature of passionate love and foreshadows potential trouble. The presence of red roses symbolizes this theme. Additionally, Leonie is informed of a place to seek refuge if he encounters any problems. Meanwhile, Curlers wife appears mismatched and wears excessive amounts of makeup. Both Curler and his wife exhibit immaturity as they constantly pursue each other and try to ascertain who is communicating with whom on the farm. On page 36, George's outburst towards

Leonie reveals his aversion towards women. Moreover, Solitaire serves as a recurring symbol throughout the text, carrying significant meaning. (Page 38).

When Slim invites them to his team, it becomes apparent that Slim recognizes George and Lennie as diligent workers. This indicates that Slim is highly regarded, as he is able to establish such a bond.

When Slim inquires if the men "travel together," it becomes evident that he is aware of their companionship. Slim warmly engages with George, assessing his background and their bond. Steinbeck gradually introduces each character, prompting the question on page 39 - "Why is there fear between them?"

We consistently notice the lack of trust among everyone. Slim can be described as having dignity. His statement about getting food before it runs out reflects the survival of the fittest concept. On page 66, we currently doubt the existence of the farm dream, considering it nothing more than a fairytale.

However, as soon as Candy begins discussing it, George also begins to believe in the farm, and Lennie becomes mesmerized by it. It feels as if they are all enclosed in a bubble of happiness, which is shattered when Candy speaks. The dream's allure is universal, and almost everyone can understand its appeal. The author's use of the phrase "On guard" suggests a defensive stance taken by George towards the dream.

He desires for it to remain confidential between George and Leonie. On page 97, the color red is frequently associated with Curlers wife, symbolizing anger and passion (such as red roses) as well as intensity (like red blood).

Concerning George's authority, Curler's wife challenges his commands and insists on him

taking action. Although George responds with hostility, she is actually seeking companionship. It becomes apparent later in the book that Curler's wife cares about others. To impress those around her, she frequently styles her hair in a particular way. Displaying aggression, Curler's wife compares herself to a fish. The novel portrays a lonely existence for Curler's wife, as she is the only female on the farm. Unhappy in her marriage and yearning for a theatrical career, she flirts with the male workers to provoke jealousy in her husband. Her mysterious namelessness adds to her sense of possession. She frequently adorns herself with heavy makeup, red dresses, and red nail polish, symbolizing danger and passion. During Steinbeck's time, women were often treated as possessions. The farmhands perceive Curler's wife as promiscuous due to her behavior. In Chapter 4, she introduces herself to Lennie and George.

In this text, the narrator highlights some negative aspects of a character named Curlers wife. She mocks Leonie due to his mental challenges, while also ridiculing Candy for being old. The intention is for the reader to develop a dislike for Curlers wife due to her unpleasant personality. When Crook confronts her, she frightens him by displaying her power. The background of Curlers wife is also provided, mentioning that her father has passed away and her mother doesn't hold a favorable opinion of her. As the only woman on the ranch, she is prohibited from engaging in conversation with anyone on the farm. Steinbeck portrays women as inferior to men, similar to how Curlers wife's actions are limited to mere talking. However, she isn't entirely passive as she demonstrates her power

by intimidating Crook, even though she lacks any real authority. The narrative indicates that women are portrayed as weak, exemplified by Curlers wife's easy demise without putting up a fight.

Curler's position at the bottom symbolizes the amount of work she does, making her a perfect representation of the 1930s. When she dies, Curler is not sad but rather angry, as if someone has taken something from him. This reflects the atmosphere during the devastating Great Depression of the 1930s, where everyone was suffering, particularly black people and those who were weak. Discrimination based on status or disability was rampant, with only Slim and Curler holding significant power. Salaries were extremely low for everyone, with most earning just $1 a day or $10 a week. Racism further disadvantaged black individuals in finding employment opportunities.

If you were a Jew, you would also face discrimination and have a lower chance of finding employment. Black individuals were perceived as lacking skills. Steinbeck wrote this to either demonstrate that black people are not unintelligent and possess valuable skills, or to portray them as insignificant. Crooks suffered a horse kick to his back and has his own room with educational books. He knows his place in society and is constantly subjected to belittlement. As a white person enters his room, Crooks angrily declares, "no white people allowed." Crooks understands that any proximity to whites can be perilous for him. He makes others feel isolated, just as he himself is lonely. When he mentions the farm, Crooks momentarily believes he is on equal terms with everyone else, but when Curley's wife arrives, she reminds him of his subordinate position. He

frequently brings up the law. The lack of justice is prominently evident in Of Mice and Men, particularly towards black individuals who are depicted as part of a lower class than white people. If a black man was accused of something, there would be no fairness or evidence in the case, leading directly to their execution.

If you were black, you were considered a second-class citizen. The text constantly highlights the diversity of a black individual's "Enigma". Despite knowing his rights, he does not truly assert himself in the Slim vs. Curler presentation. Slim is described as highly skilled but lacks real ambitions and the American dream; he is merely a worker who will continue working until he dies without ever becoming the owner of the farm. This leads to a melancholic realization. The protagonist comprehends the dynamics between the people on the farm, including Ellen, whom he sees as childlike. He seems to understand the individuals, including Curler's wife, similar to a character named Munchies who explains things to the reader.

Curler, the son of the ranch owner, holds authority over everyone on the farm. Despite being short and semi-privileged, he consistently attempts to assert his superiority over others. He possesses a wife whom he considers as his possession, despising it whenever she flirts with others. Curler can often be seen searching for his wife around the farm and harboring animosity towards those who gossip about him behind his back. Aware that he is secure in his position, he knows that his father's ownership of the farm ensures he will never be fired.

Character Comparison

Slim is recognized as the protagonist, distinctly contrasting

with Curler. Slim and Curler frequently find themselves on opposite sides of an argument.

The boss holds the most power on the farm, but Curler lacks authority. The boss rarely interacts with the lower-class individuals, and Curler, unlike his father Slim, lacks understanding and respect for others. Despite being disliked for his terrible personality, Curler still has to order people around while Slim manages and oversees the work. Slim is an intelligent man who knows how to think his way out of any situation. For instance, when Curler gets into a fight with Lien's, resulting in a hand injury, Slim finds an alternative solution to prevent further conflict. Regardless of the circumstances, Slim remains composed and takes charge as the natural leader. In contrast, Curler is expected to possess these qualities but is quite the opposite, which greatly oppresses those around him.

During the Great Depression, the stock market crashed, resulting in a breakdown of communication and individuals resorting to desperate measures for financial gain. Unfortunately, this period also heightened discrimination against black people. While the majority faced isolation and suspicion, George and Ellen stood out as exceptions. One particular boss suspected George of taking Lien's money. Although Candy was viewed as unproductive, he remained a kind-hearted individual who symbolized the old and disabled during the Great Depression. The scene of shooting the dog signifies that one's worth was solely determined by their productivity, as the dog was deemed useless and mercy killing was suggested.

Candy has little composition and a small role on the farm, which serves as the welfare system. For instance, Crook is considered at the bottom along with Ellen and

Candy. When Candy learns about George and Lien's dream for the farm, he views it as a possibility for himself. The farm represents hope for him. The Great Depression resulted in a loss of 30 billion dollars and was not a natural disaster, but rather a man-made catastrophe. Symbolically, Candy's old dogs represent uselessness, and their death foreshadows Lien's demise. This illustrates that during the great oppression, anyone deemed useless can be eliminated. Throughout the book, Crooks remains completely isolated from the other characters. Curler's wife symbolizes the female character in the Biblical story who brings sin and death to the world.

The text highlights the symbolism of a female figure representing women in societies that prioritize men and consistently marginalize women. Additionally, it mentions the influx of refugees and immigrants during the Great Depression, which further exacerbated competition for Americans. This context sets the stage for an essay that begins with an allegory, such as a story, poem, or picture with a hidden moral or political meaning. Many individuals, including Steinbeck, argue that the American dream is now perceived as a myth and lacks credibility. A common desire for a place to belong is subtly expressed by all people.

Language, actions, and symbols all play a significant role in depicting the challenges faced by elders during the Great Depression, particularly in terms of job opportunities limited due to various incapacities. One such example is Candy, who suffered an accident involving a machine resulting in a hand injury, rendering him unable to secure employment. Similarly, Candy's old dog serves as a poignant metaphor for his own perceived uselessness within society. By embodying the elderly and

disabled population's struggles, Candy highlights the lack of welfare support and inadequate compensation for his unfortunate incident. Initially resistant when told about his dog's suffering, Candy eventually agrees with the decision when Slim reiterates it. In another instance, when Curley attacks Lennie, George advises him to retaliate. Through George and Lennie's bond with their dream of owning land, they symbolize the innocent American dream. Furthermore, the aged and feeble state of Candy's once powerful sheepdog serves as a visual representation of the decline of his farm and diminishing strength.

The killing of the dog by Carlson highlights the harsh realities of survival during the depression era, where only the strong can persevere. This event also serves as a foreshadowing of Lennie's eventual death. Curler's wife, depicted as a biblical figure bringing sin and death into the world, represents all women and is paralleled with references to the Garden of Eden. Loneliness is a prevalent theme, with George and Lennie being the exception, while Candy briefly finds solace in his dog. The great depression, occurring in 1929 and caused by human actions rather than natural disasters, adds to the backdrop of the story. It captivates George, who revels in the narrative's allure and holds onto a deep yearning for a better future.

In this passage, the narrator discusses the character Peg from the novel. Peg is depicted as using a specific choice of words, calling the workers "sunny boys," in an attempt to be friendly. She is also shown trying to establish a friendship with Ellen and questioning George's authority. Although Steinbeck initially portrays Curly's wife as evil, it becomes clear that all she desires is

companionship. Additionally, there is significant foreshadowing present, hinting at the illusion of the American dream. Steinbeck suggests that the American dream is a myth, as those who started with money did not face problems during the great depression. The advancement of technology, such as tractors, allowed those who were already ahead, such as Ford, to produce more food with less labor, ultimately leading to a decrease in food prices.