Of Mice and Men: Crooks Character Flashcards

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Study Notes

Crooks: Living Arrangements and Loneliness

Crooks lives in extremely poor conditions, adjacent to manure, symbolizing his low status.
His sleeping arrangements on hay highlight his dehumanization and treatment akin to that of animals.
Loneliness is a defining aspect of his character; his surroundings reflect his broken physical and mental state.

Quotes Reflecting Crooks' Anger and Pain

Described as "permanently in pain," indicating his continuous suffering and harsh treatment.
Physical appearance includes a "lean face" with "deep black wrinkles," suggesting a life full of hardship and resulting anger towards others.
Pain manifests in his demeanor; tight lips and a short temper showcase his constant agony and irritability.

Expression of Anger

Crooks' resentment is evident in the quote: "They say I stink, well I tell you, you all of you stink to me," highlighting his anger towards white people.

Demonstrating Loneliness

Crooks harbors prejudice against white people, yet exhibits desperation by allowing Lennie into his space.
His statement, "I'll tell ya a guy gets too lonely an' he gets sick," underscores the depths of his isolation and need for companionship.

Interactions with Lennie

Crooks' meanness towards Lennie serves as a way to project his own feelings of anger and frustration.
He chooses Lennie, knowing that he cannot retaliate or fully understand the cruelty directed at him.

Reaction to George and Lennie's Dream

Initially dismisses their aspirations as unrealistic but becomes intrigued when Candy discusses their savings.
Crooks expresses a desire to join the dream but later feels unwelcome after Curley’s wife confronts him, reinforcing his exclusion.

Hesitance to Join the Dream

Crooks recognizes that he is not wanted in the dream due to George and Curley’s wife’s negative treatment towards him.

Curley’s Wife and Power Dynamics

Curley’s wife’s interactions with Crooks mirror how Crooks treated Lennie, reflecting cycles of oppression.
Her threatening language, such as "You know what I can do if you open your trap," exhibits her dominance and disregard for Crooks' dignity.

Description

Explore the character of Crooks from 'Of Mice and Men' through these flashcards. Delve into his living arrangements, loneliness, and the implications of his treatment. This quiz will enhance your understanding of Crooks' role and significance in the narrative.