Critical Analysis Essay of Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men
Of Mice and Men is regarded as one of the most well-written and notable novels of John Steinbeck. Published in 1937, this book follows that life of two migrant ranch workers: the mentally challenged but physically strong Lennie Small and the smart but short-tempered George Milton. The story was set during the Great Depression in California and the two best friends moved from one place to another in search of better labor opportunities. Within the narrative, the author uses important themes of dream, loneliness, and friendships which were all embodied by the two main characters.
One of the most pervasive themes of the novel is the concept of having a personal dream and aspiration. In fact, almost every characters of the story admit at one point or another of having a different and more satisfying life. George for example, dreams of becoming independent. More particularly, he wants to be his own boss so that he can stop working for others, and ultimately become “somebody”. Lennie similarly wants to continue living with George on his homestead and to eventually stop his obsessive love for soft objects. Other characters of the story also express their dreams. This includes Curly’s wife and her wish to become an actress and Crooks who aspires to have a sense of security and self-respect by having his own ranch. The visions and aspirations of this characters ultimately moves them to behave and act in such a way that will allow them achieve their dreams. But what is most interesting about these dreams is that although the characters continue to hope that one day, they will soon realized those aspirations, reality and the hardships of life prove to be a hindrance. Their current state in life reminds them that while their dreams are beautiful, it can also be impossible and difficult to reach (Hadella 56).
Apart from dream, Steinbeck similarly explores the theme of loneliness in the lives of the characters. For example, the character of Candy showed much sadness after his dog is gone. In the same way, Curley’s wife is loneliness has never showed her the love and affection that she longs for. Instead, she deals with it by flirting and finding affection from other men in the ranch. It is also notable that the character of George and Lennie is mainly caused by the loneliness in their lives. The author writes:
“Guys like us, that work on ranches, are the loneliest guys in the world. They got no family. They don’t belong no place… With us it ain’t like that. We got a future. We got somebody to talk to that gives a damn about us. We don’t have to sit in no bar room blowing in our jack just because we got no place else to go. If them other guys gets in jail they can rot all anybody gives a damn. But not us” (Steinbeck 34).
This passage is suggestive of the loneliness that men like George and Lennie has experienced most of their lives. This in turn has caused to create a bod of friendship (Shamblin 66).
Closely related to the theme of sadness is that concept of friendship. This is of course, best exemplified by the character of George and Lennie. What is interesting about this partnership is that the two are very different from the other. And yet, despite of their difference, they found a common ground and used to create a strong friendship.
Based on the points provided, it can be argued that John Steinbeck used three important themes: dreams, loneliness, and friendships. These themes helped shaped the characters as well as the plot of the entire story.
Works Cited
Hadella, C. Of mice and men: a kinship of powerlessness. NY: Twayne Pubslihers, 1995
Shamblin, L. Of Mice and men. NY: Research and Educ., 2012
Steinbeck, J. Of Mice and Men. NY: Penguin, 1994