Theme and Literary Analysis
What is theme?
A universal message or lesson about life.
What is direct characterization?
When the author directly tells the reader what a character is like.
What does it mean to advance the plot?
To move the main events of the story forward.
Who is the most respected and wise ranch hand?
Slim
Why does Juror 8 vote “not guilty” on the first ballot?
He wants to talk about the case before making a final decision.
What is an example of a strong theme statement? (Come up with one as a team)
Friendship can give people hope and support in difficult times.
Which STEAL letters show talking and acting?
What should a narrative ending do?
Reflect on and follow logically from earlier events.
Why does Crooks live alone instead of in the bunkhouse?
Because of racism, he is not allowed to sleep with the other men.
What object does Juror 8 bring that challenges the evidence?
A knife identical to the murder weapon.
What did people often lose during the Great Depression?
Their jobs, homes, and hope.
Which part of STEAL describes appearance?
L - Looks
What are multiple plot lines? When do they occur?
More than one set of important events happening in the story.
Why does Candy want to join George and Lennie’s dream farm?
He is old, disabled, and afraid of being thrown off the ranch.
What did the old man who lived downstairs claim to hear?
The boy shout “I’m going to kill you,” followed by a body falling.
Why is “Friendship can give people hope…” a theme?
It expresses a universal life message, not just a plot detail.
How does indirect characterization help readers?
It allows readers to infer personality through actions, dialogue, and thoughts.
What is pacing?
How fast or slow a story feels.
What does George tell Lennie to do if he gets into trouble?
Go hide in the brush by the river.
What flaw is found in the woman’s eyewitness testimony?
She wore glasses but likely would not have been wearing them in bed.
How does historical context shape theme?
It influences characters’ struggles and the messages about life the author develops.
How is Lennie characterized using STEAL?
(Give one example)
Through his actions, speech, and thoughts, which show his strength, innocence, and lack of control.
Why use slow pacing?
To build tension or create a calm, reflective mood
Why does George ultimately decide to kill Lennie himself?
To protect Lennie from a violent death and because their dream is no longer possible.
What evidence casts doubt on the old man’s claim about reaching the door in time?
The time it would take a limping old man to walk from his bed to the door.