Comprehension
Ch.1
Ch.1
Where are George and Lennie headed and why?
George and Lennie are headed to a ranch to work, as they have done before. They were run out of their previous job in Weed and are looking for a new opportunity.
What is the bunk house described as being like in the opening paragraph?
The bunk house is described as a "long, rectangular building" with whitewashed walls, an unpainted floor, and small square windows.
What happened to George and Lennie in Weed that caused them to run away?
In Weed, Lennie got in trouble for touching a woman's dress which caused her to yell. As a consequence George and Lennie had to hide in an irrigation ditch and sneak out of town.
What does the old swamper say about the previous occupant of the bed that George and Lennie are assigned?
The old swamper says the previous occupant, a blacksmith named Whitey, was "a hell of a nice fella and clean a guy as you want to meet" who would even use the lice-killing spray even when there were no bugs just to be sure.
Chapter 1: Describe the relationship between George and Lennie. How does their interaction reveal their personalities?
The interaction between George and Lennie reveals that George is the no-nonsense caretaker. Meanwhile, Lennie is childlike, dependent, and often causes problems for them. Their relationship is one of frustration but also deep care and loyalty from George.
Chapter 1: The passage describes the natural setting in vivid detail. How does this setting contrast with the struggles of the characters?
The vivid natural setting, with its lush greenery, flowing river, and peaceful atmosphere, contrasts sharply with the struggles and hardships faced by the migrant workers like George and Lennie. This contrast emphasizes the harsh realities of their lives.
Why does George get frustrated with Lennie and say he could have a better life without him?
George gets frustrated because Lennie's childlike behavior and tendency to get them into trouble makes George's life much harder. George feels he could have an easier, more carefree life without having to constantly look after Lennie.
What does the boss say about why he was expecting George and Lennie the night before?
The boss says he was expecting George and Lennie the night before and was "sore as hell" when they didn't show up for work that morning.
Chapter 1: How does Lennie's childlike nature and dependence on George shape the story
Lennie's innocent nature and need for George's guidance are central to the story. His childlike dependence creates challenges but also highlights the human need for friendship.
Chapter 1: What is the significance of George and Lennie's dream of owning their own farm and "living off the fatta the lan'"? How does this dream reflect their hopes and struggles?
George and Lennie's dream of owning their own small farm represents their hopes for security, stability, and a sense of belonging - things they lack in their transient, isolated lives as ranch hands. The dream reflects their struggles and the human need for a place to call home.
Chapter 2: How does Curley's behavior and attitude towards Lennie suggest that he may cause trouble for them?
Curley's aggressive, confrontational attitude and tendency to "pick scraps with big guys" suggests he may cause trouble for the larger Lennie.
Chapter 2: How does the detailed description of the bunk house and its contents contribute to the setting and mood of the story?
The detailed description of the bunk house and its contents helps establish the setting and create a sense of the sad and difficult living conditions the ranch workers experienced. This contributes to the overall mood of sadness and loneliness.
Chapter 2: What does the old swamper's comments about Curley's wife reveal about her character?
The old swamper's comments that Curley's wife "got the eye" and seems to be flirting with other men. Slim and Carlson suggest she may be a "tart" or woman who likes to flirt with the men.
Chapter 2: What do George's reactions to Curley and Curley's wife suggest about his concerns for himself and Lennie?
George's concern about Curley and his wife suggest he is worried they may cause problems for him and the vulnerable Lennie, foreshadowing future conflicts.