Microcosm of USA
What are some examples of symbolism in "Of Mice and Men"?
- The ranch itself represents America
- The ranch owners/people in charge can represent politcians and government officials and how they are running our country
In the story who would represent a migrant worker?
Ranch workers like Lennie, Slim and George
What aspirations do Lennie and George have that they wish to achieve?
They wish to own a ranch someday.
What are some problems "Of Mice and Men" demonstrate that are common in America?
Racism, disadvantages for the disabled, and the cycle of poverty meaning the poor stay poor BECAUSE they are poor.
How was Lennie and George's situation different from most immigrants?
They had no permanent housing and it was the time of the Great Depression.
How do the dreams of the workers on the ranch relate to the American Dream?
All of the workers have goals and ambitions they want to accomplish that go farther than just working at the ranch.
Based on his story, what do you think is Steinbeck's opinion of America?
Steinbeck's opinion is that to be successful in America you must be a hard worker and do what you can to realize your dreams.
What was Lennie and George working so hard for?
They wanted a ranch of their own and a beautiful family.
What is preventing the ranch workers from achieving their goals?
Their special circumstances prevent them from achieving their goals. For example Lennie's mental instability limits him.
How does "Of Mice and Men" emphasize the importance of relationships?
Each character in "Of Mice and Men" are lonely in some degree and it constrasts to the strong bond Lennie and George share. It really shows how important relationships, acceptance and hope is in society.
What could be Steinbeck's personal motivation for writing the story?
Steinbeck's grandparents were actually German immigrants. Steinbeck was a second generation immigrant.
How do the hardships the characters face describe Steinbeck’s view of the American Dream?
The hardships the characters face describe Steinbeck’s view of the American Dream by portraying the American Dream as a myth and how it is difficult to achieve dreams due to the oppression shown by American society.
At the time the story was set, the Great Depression played a huge role in the situations of the characters. How did the Great Depression affect each other?
It affected all the ranch workers by not only hurting them financially but mentally. The Great Depression took a toll on their spirits and hopes for their future. They were stuck in a bad position because they saw it as their only option.
How was Steinbeck's personal story similiar to Lennie and Geroge's?
Steinbeck was actually born in California and worked at a sugar beet farm when he was a teen. He also comes from a line of immigrants.
What famous quote from the Declaration of Independence is an antithesis of what the characters go through within Of Mice and Men?
“All men are created equal”