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Questions and Answers
What is the setting of the novel?
What is the setting of the novel?
The setting of the novel takes place in Soledad, California by the Salinas River.
Describe the atmosphere that is created by the imagery in the first two paragraphs of the novel.
Describe the atmosphere that is created by the imagery in the first two paragraphs of the novel.
The atmosphere seems very quiet, peaceful, and beautiful.
List words to describe Lennie.
List words to describe Lennie.
Lennie is a huge man, shapeless of face, with large and pale eyes, and wide sloping shoulders.
List words to describe George.
List words to describe George.
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To what animals is Lennie compared in Chapter 1? What do the comparisons imply about him?
To what animals is Lennie compared in Chapter 1? What do the comparisons imply about him?
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Why were George and Lennie run out of Weed?
Why were George and Lennie run out of Weed?
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What things does Lennie do and say that make him like a child?
What things does Lennie do and say that make him like a child?
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Does George really want Lennie to go away? Explain your answer.
Does George really want Lennie to go away? Explain your answer.
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What is the meaning of the phrase, 'An' live off the fatta the lan' '?
What is the meaning of the phrase, 'An' live off the fatta the lan' '?
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Where does George tell Lennie to hide if he gets into trouble? What literary device is being used here?
Where does George tell Lennie to hide if he gets into trouble? What literary device is being used here?
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What does Lennie have hidden in his hand, and why does he want to keep it?
What does Lennie have hidden in his hand, and why does he want to keep it?
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Who was the lady who used to give mice to Lennie? Why did she stop?
Who was the lady who used to give mice to Lennie? Why did she stop?
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How does George react when Lennie repeatedly says that he likes ketchup on his beans? Why does George react this way?
How does George react when Lennie repeatedly says that he likes ketchup on his beans? Why does George react this way?
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Does Lennie get into trouble on purpose? Explain.
Does Lennie get into trouble on purpose? Explain.
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Define exposition and explain the relevance of this term to Chapter 1.
Define exposition and explain the relevance of this term to Chapter 1.
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Study Notes
Setting and Atmosphere
- The novel is set in Soledad, California by the Salinas River, characterized by warm water and yellow sands in sunlight.
- Imagery in the opening paragraphs creates a quiet, peaceful, and beautiful atmosphere.
Character Descriptions
- Lennie: Described as huge, shapeless of face, with large pale eyes and wide sloping shoulders.
- George: Portrayed as small and quick, with a dark face, restless eyes, sharp features, and a bony nose.
Animal Comparisons
- Lennie is compared to a bear, indicating his large size.
- He is likened to a horse for drinking from the river, implying a lack of awareness about contamination.
- Lennie resembles a dog in behavior, hesitant like a terrier unsure about fetching a ball.
Background and Actions
- George and Lennie fled Weed because Lennie scared a girl by holding her tightly and refusing to let go.
- Lennie's childlike qualities include poor grammar, exaggeration, and emotional swings between happiness and sadness.
Relationship Dynamics
- Although George expresses a desire for Lennie to leave, he becomes upset at the thought, indicating affection and a bond despite challenges.
Dreams and Goals
- The phrase "An' live off the fatta the lan'" represents the aspiration to live sustainably and prosperously through farming.
Foreshadowing and Precautions
- George instructs Lennie to hide in the brush by the river if trouble arises, utilizing foreshadowing for future events.
Lennie's Innocence
- Lennie hides a mouse in his hand due to a lack of knowledge about proper care; it reflects his innocent and simplistic nature.
- Aunt Clara, Lennie's deceased caregiver, used to provide him mice but stopped because he would unintentionally kill them.
Conflict and Desire
- When Lennie frequently mentions ketchup for his beans, George responds sharply due to frustration over past incidents, such as the trouble with the girl.
- Lennie also desires the mouse, showcasing his longing for comfort and companionship.
Intentions and Consequences
- Lennie's actions are not intentional; he seeks innocent interactions, such as feeling a dress similarly to touching a mouse.
Exposition Importance
- The exposition serves to introduce the plot, setting, and characters, setting the groundwork for the story's development and thematic exploration.
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Description
This quiz focuses on the key elements of setting and atmosphere in Chapter 1 of 'Of Mice and Men.' Explore the descriptions and imagery that establish the novel's context. Use flashcards to reinforce your understanding of the text's nuances.
