Of Mice and Men Chapter Summaries

Study Notes

Chapter 1 Summary

Setting: A hot afternoon in California, 1930, introducing characters Lennie Small and George Milton.
Both are itinerant workers struggling financially, seeking employment on a ranch for $50 a month.
Lennie, who behaves childishly, drinks water from a dirty pool, highlighting his innocence and dependency on George.
Their previous job ended after Lennie was accused of assaulting a girl when he touched her dress; this event reflects Lennie's lack of understanding of social boundaries.
George advises Lennie to return to the pond if trouble arises, establishing a key plot point.

Chapter 2 Summary

George and Lennie arrive at the new ranch, where the boss questions their relationship as George does most of the talking.
George fabricates a story, claiming he and Lennie are cousins, to explain their companionship.
George warns Lennie to steer clear of Curley, the boss’s aggressive son, introducing tension in their new environment.
Curley’s Wife is introduced, symbolizing the era's gender dynamics and the isolation experienced by women during the Great Depression.

Chapter 3 Summary

Introduction of Slim, a respected worker, as George expresses gratitude for a puppy he gifted to Lennie.
George shares their backstory with Slim, emphasizing their bond and hardships.
Carlson complains about the smell of Candy's old dog, leading to a poignant scene where Carlson euthanizes the dog, leaving Candy devastated.
Curley randomly attacks Lennie, showcasing Curley’s insecurity and the volatile atmosphere of the ranch.

Chapter 4 Summary

Lennie confides in Crooks about their dream of planting a farm, indicating hopes for a better future.
Curley’s Wife enters, revealing her loneliness and desire for companionship, highlighting her own struggles in a male-dominated environment.
She questions Lennie about his bruises, further illustrating the tension and potential for conflict in their interactions.
George's disapproval of Lennie discussing the dream farm emphasizes his protective nature.

Chapter 5 Summary

Lennie accidentally kills a puppy in the barn, signifying his inability to control his strength and instincts.
In a tragic incident, Lennie’s affection leads him to break Curley’s Wife’s neck while stroking her hair, showcasing the relationship between innocence and tragedy.
After the incident, he remembers George’s instructions and hides her body under hay, reflecting his confusion and fear.
Candy realizes Lennie is responsible for the death, prompting him to search for him, while Curley seeks revenge.

Chapter 6 Summary

Lennie waits by the river, reflecting on his actions and the trouble he brings to George, demonstrating his self-awareness and guilt.
He requests George to recount the dream farm story one last time, illustrating his longing for hope and escapism.
As the narrative comes to a climax, George tragically shoots Lennie, emphasizing the themes of friendship, mercy, and the harsh realities of their world.

Description

This quiz provides key summaries of each chapter in 'Of Mice and Men'. It highlights major events and character introductions, focusing on the relationship between George and Lennie. Ideal for students reviewing the book's themes and plot points.