Of Mice and Men :: essays research papers

John Steinbeck wrote Of Mice and Men in an effort to illustrate the companionable limitations imposed upon the working class during the Great effect era by creating various characters who shared one common dream, the American Dream, Steinbeck dramatized on one individual level, the life of the protagonist, George, the grueling struggles and sanguine dreams of an entire social class of people Poet Robert Burns once said, The best laid plans of mice and men gang oft a-glae, Steinbeck parallels this quote with the ill-fated dreams of iterant workers. Delving into the mind of George, Steinbeck exposes his yearning desire to be on his own and his conflicting desire to remain guardian of Lennie and follow their dream. George recognizes that without Lennies companionship their dreams will never suffice.George, one of the two protagonists of the novel, provides insight into the head word of a member of the working class during the destitute 1930s. Like all migrant workers during this tim e period he has a dream, the central theme of the novel, to function offa the fatta the lan and have his own place. Unfortunately, this dream is unrealistic, living in an oppressive society which views him as a nonentity and confines him to the ranch and bunkhouse, a token Steinbeck utilizes to represent drastic limitation, he knows his dream is in vain. Georges dream is ironically barred by his relationship with Lennie, his burly companion who suffers from mental disabilities, and oft wonders what it would be like without Lennie. He would be free of all obligations and able to go out with the guys, drink and spend his money. He a lot blames Lennie for depriving him from activities such as these. Despite his desire to be on his own, George realizes that life without Lennie would be meaningless. Georges desire for freedom constantly conflicts with necessity of Lennies friendly relationship in an otherwise bleak world.The affectionate companionship between George and Lennie is un usual among single, white migrant workers. The arrogance and selfishness of other workers on the ranch, reinforces the importance of the friendship George and Lennie uphold throughout the novel. The friendship between George and Lennie replaces desolation is experienced by many of the workers. Their friendship also allows them to sustain their dream, which remains alive through their conversation. George tells Lennie, the story of their dream so often that even a smart-minded worker like George comes to believe it.