Of Mice and Men Study Guide Flashcards

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Questions and Answers

What does the description of Curley's wife imply after her death?

Her escape from powerlessness is death.

How do Curley's wife's and Lennie's dreams both die with the accidental death?

Curley's wife's dream dies with her, while Lennie's dream is hindered due to his legal consequences.

How does Candy misinterpret Curley's wife's appearance in the barn?

He believes she is sleeping.

What are George's and Candy's responses to Curley's wife's death?

George wants to tell Curley, while Candy wants to protect Lennie. Signup and view all the answers

What image does Steinbeck use to describe George's reaction to Curley's wife's death?

His face was hard and tight as wood. Signup and view all the answers

How does Candy recognize the greater implications of Lennie's actions?

He asks George about the farm and expresses doubt about their dream. Signup and view all the answers

What is Candy's reaction after learning their dream is no longer a reality?

He blames Curley's wife and expresses disappointment. Signup and view all the answers

How does George try to protect Lennie after the men find the body?

He tells them Lennie would go south. Signup and view all the answers

What do the men suppose happened to Carlson's gun?

They think Lennie took it. Signup and view all the answers

Why do the men want George to come with them?

So they don't think he is involved in the murder. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Steinbeck return to the barn at the end of the chapter?

To focus on Candy's defeated expression and the loss of dreams. Signup and view all the answers

How does the focus of the narration change at the end of the chapter?

It shifts to explore George's actions and reactions. Signup and view all the answers

What delusion does Lennie experience while waiting for George?

He remembers a vision of his Aunt Clara. Signup and view all the answers

What does Lennie expect George to do when he finds him?

Lennie expects George to yell at him. Signup and view all the answers

Why will Curley keep quiet about what Lennie did to him?

Curley agrees not to tell to avoid becoming a laughing-stock. Signup and view all the answers

How does Curley's decision about not telling about the incident reflect on his character?

It shows that Curley is concerned with his reputation and image. Signup and view all the answers

What does Slim tell Curley to convince him to keep quiet?

He'll tell everyone about Curley's own mistake. Signup and view all the answers

What lesson did Crooks learn as a child about social interactions?

Crooks learned that he would be isolated because of his race. Signup and view all the answers

How does Crooks react to Lennie's visit?

Crooks is unhappy and tells Lennie he has no right to be in his room. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Curley's wife come to the barn?

She claims to look for Curley but is really seeking someone to talk to due to her loneliness. Signup and view all the answers

How is Crooks's loneliness different from the other characters?

Crooks's loneliness stems from racial isolation rather than just social or personal reasons. Signup and view all the answers

What dreams does Curley's wife have?

She dreams of being in motion pictures. Signup and view all the answers

What does Lennie explain about his love for rabbits?

They are nice to pet. Signup and view all the answers

What happens when Curley's wife allows Lennie to touch her hair?

Lennie panics and accidentally kills her. Signup and view all the answers

How does the theme of powerlessness manifest in Crooks's interactions?

Crooks initially tries to exert power over Lennie but feels powerless when confronted by Curley's wife. Signup and view all the answers

What does Lennie express about his feelings towards the place they are at?

Lennie does not like the place and wants to get out. Signup and view all the answers

How does Steinbeck characterize Slim?

Slim is characterized as a tough, fair, and likable leader with kingly qualities. Signup and view all the answers

What metaphor is used to describe Slim?

Slim is compared to a prince. Signup and view all the answers

What significant action does Slim take regarding his dog’s puppies?

Slim drowns four of the nine puppies. Signup and view all the answers

What does the boss think about George and Lennie's travel together?

The boss is skeptical and believes George is using Lennie. Signup and view all the answers

How does Curley view the relationship between George and Lennie?

Curley believes they might have a sexual relationship. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main connection among the characters introduced in the chapter?

They are all migrant workers dealing with isolation and interdependence. Signup and view all the answers

How does Curley contrast with Lennie?

Curley thrives on his perceived strength while Lennie is gentle. Signup and view all the answers

What is suggested by Curley's wife not having a name?

It suggests she is viewed only in relation to her sexuality and Curley. Signup and view all the answers

How is silence represented in the selected passage?

Silence reflects a mood of anticipation and dread. Signup and view all the answers

What does George reveal about the situation in Weed?

George explains a past incident where Lennie's actions led to trouble. Signup and view all the answers

What theme does the discovery of the letter in the magazine reinforce?

It emphasizes the importance of dreams. Signup and view all the answers

What does foreshadowing occur concerning Curley's wife?

She is likely to be involved in upcoming problems between characters. Signup and view all the answers

How does the conflict with Curley at the end of the chapter illustrate his character?

Curley demonstrates jealousy and unfairness as he picks on Lennie. Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'Chapter' refer to?

One Signup and view all the answers

How does the first paragraph of the novel function?

The novel begins with a rich description of the setting. Signup and view all the answers

Compare and contrast the two men who come into the clearing by the river.

The two men are similar in appearance but physically different. Signup and view all the answers

Cite two animal images that describe Lennie.

<ol> <li>'Lennie dabbled his big paw in the water.' 2. 'Dragging his feet a little, the way a bear drags his paws.'</li> </ol> Signup and view all the answers

What do George and Lennie talk about when they sit by the river?

George explains where they are going and that Lennie has forgotten specific instructions. Signup and view all the answers

What does the phrase 'watchin' that blackboard' refer to?

'Watchin' that blackboard' refers to checking job postings during the Depression era. Signup and view all the answers

What character trait of Lennie is revealed through George's discovery of the dead mouse?

Lennie is pacified through simple things and enjoys soft items. Signup and view all the answers

What is George's plan for getting the job at the ranch?

George intends for Lennie to remain silent while he speaks to the boss. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Steinbeck mention George and Lennie's problems in Weed?

To create dramatic interest and foreshadow future events. Signup and view all the answers

How does Lennie's sensitivity to George's feelings manifest?

Lennie tries to reassure George after George erupts in anger about the ketchup. Signup and view all the answers

Why doesn't George take Lennie up on his offer to run away?

George feels a great responsibility for Lennie's well-being. Signup and view all the answers

What literary techniques does Steinbeck use in George's conversation?

Steinbeck uses George's character to fill in gaps and create foreshadowing. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Lennie like George to tell the story of the ranch?

Lennie finds reassurance in the retelling of the story. Signup and view all the answers

What does living off the 'fatta the lan' imply?

It implies that one can thrive off the resources offered by the land. Signup and view all the answers

Why does George tell Lennie to remember the spot where they are camping?

To ensure Lennie can return to safety if trouble arises. Signup and view all the answers

Identify two emerging themes by the end of Chapter 1.

Friendship and My Brother's Keeper. Signup and view all the answers

How does the description of the setting differ in Chapter 2?

The description shifts from a lush, peaceful setting to a more harsh living reality. Signup and view all the answers

What do George and Lennie learn when they arrive at the camp?

They learn that the boss was angry because he expected them the night before. Signup and view all the answers

What does the story about the blacksmith illustrate?

It illustrates the transient lifestyle of ranch workers. Signup and view all the answers

How does the old man describe the boss?

As a 'nice fella' who gives whiskey at Christmas. Signup and view all the answers

What does the boss misinterpret about George and Lennie's relationship?

He suspects George is trying to take advantage of Lennie. Signup and view all the answers

Explain the irony in Lennie's last name.

Lennie's last name is 'Small', which contrasts with his large size. Signup and view all the answers

Who is Curley and what does 'handy' imply?

Curley is the boss's son who likes to fight. Signup and view all the answers

Describe the tone of the passage about Curley.

The tone is aggressive. Signup and view all the answers

What does Curley's reaction to George and Lennie suggest about his character?

It suggests that Curley is insecure. Signup and view all the answers

What does the passage about the old man imply about relationships between men?

It illustrates a lack of trust and support among men during the Depression. Signup and view all the answers

What do we learn about Curley's wife?

She has a wandering eye. Signup and view all the answers

What does Steinbeck's reference to the 'Stable Buck' imply?

'Stable Buck' reflects the racial attitudes of the time. Signup and view all the answers

How does the passage about George's warning to Lennie foreshadow future events?

It suggests potential conflict with Curley. Signup and view all the answers

What is the symbolic significance of sunshine being cut off?

It represents danger entering George and Lennie's lives. Signup and view all the answers

How does George react after Curley's wife comes to the barn?

George becomes angry at Lennie for talking about how pretty Curley's wife is. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Chapter 1

The novel opens with a tranquil description of the Salinas River, symbolizing a sanctuary and comfort for weary travelers.
Two main characters, George and Lennie, enter the scene. They are similarly dressed but physically contrasting, representing friendship despite differences.
Steinbeck uses animal imagery to describe Lennie, indicating his childlike nature and the perception of his mental state.
George acts as Lennie's protector, managing their lives as Lennie struggles with memory and understanding.
The phrase "watchin' that blackboard" highlights the desperation of job seekers during the Great Depression, emphasizing economic hardship.
Lennie's fondness for soft items, as shown by his dead mouse, reveals his innocence and desire for comfort.
George's strategy for getting a job highlights Lennie's limitations and George's role as a caretaker.
Mention of past troubles in Weed foreshadows future conflict, underscoring George's frustration and their interdependence.
Lennie's sensitivity is demonstrated through his reaction to George's anger, signifying their deep connection.
George's care for Lennie's well-being illustrates themes of friendship and responsibility.

Chapter 2

Initial setting shifts to a stark contrast from the peaceful river to the more harsh realities of George and Lennie's living conditions at the ranch.
Upon arrival, George and Lennie learn of the boss's displeasure over their late arrival, reflecting instability in their lives.
The story of a blacksmith quitting highlights the transient nature of itinerant workers, emphasizing lack of roots and stability.
The old man's description of the boss as "a nice fella" contrasts with typical expectations of ranch owners, revealing complexities of their relationships.
The boss misinterprets George’s protective behavior towards Lennie, suspecting ulterior motives, showcasing prejudices against the disabled.
Lennie's surname "Small" is ironic, as he physically contrasts with the name but embodies childlike thinking.
Curley, the boss's son, is characterized as confrontational and insecure, using aggression to assert power.
Steinbeck creates an aggressive tone through Curley’s physical demeanor, underscoring his cruelty and the power dynamics on the ranch.
The old man's reassurance based on George's derogatory comment indicates the competitive mistrust among men.
Information about Curley's wife foreshadows potential conflict and reveals her dissatisfaction in her new marriage.

Themes and Symbolism

The expression "live off the fatta the lan'" embodies dreams of prosperity and autonomy for George and Lennie.
George instructs Lennie to remember their campsite, foreshadowing future troubles and the need for a safety plan.
Themes of friendship and the American dream are established as George cares for Lennie and they dream of a better future.
The entry of Curley’s wife into a scene filled with sunshine symbolizes danger, hinting at her disruptive role in their lives.
Steinbeck uses Slim's direct characterization to portray him as respectful and admired, highlighting his significance on the ranch.
Slim's visage and skills elevate him above other characters, lauding qualities of dignity and grace amid the harsh realities of their lives.### Literary Devices and Themes
Steinbeck elevates Slim to a prince-like status, suggesting his nobility and leadership on the ranch.
Alliteration of the hard "c" sound in Lennie's observation emphasizes the friendliness of the men while hinting at underlying competition and skepticism.
Slim's decision to drown four puppies reflects the brutal survival instinct during the Depression, indicating only the strong endure.

Character Dynamics

Three encounters reveal skepticism from the boss about George and Lennie's relationship, Curley’s crude assumptions of a sexual nature, and Slim’s supportive demeanor, highlighting different perspectives on their bond.
The loneliness of migrant workers is illustrated through the transient nature of ranch hands and their rare meaningful connections, as seen in George and Lennie's partnership.
Curley serves as a foil to Lennie; despite being small, Curley embodies aggression, while Lennie's gentle nature contrasts sharply.

Women's Roles and Symbolism

Curley's wife is unnamed, representing the objectification of women during the era, highlighting women solely in sexual terms and their roles related to men.
George and Lennie's relationship brings forth a comment on male isolation, contrasting their bond against the pervasive solitude felt by others.

Foreshadowing and Conflict

Curley's possessiveness and jealousy foreshadow potential conflict, especially regarding his treatment of his wife and his interactions with Lennie.
The passage about Curley's wife encapsulates impending chaos, hinting at future confrontations within the male-dominated environment.
Curley’s aggressive nature is brought to the forefront in the bunkhouse confrontation, showcasing his need to assert dominance despite feeling threatened.

Themes of Violence and Survival

Lennie's violent outburst when discussing the future reflects societal brutality and the harsh realities facing the characters.
Candy’s fears of being discarded due to weakness mirror the survival theme prevalent among migrant workers, emphasizing the fate awaiting those unable to work.

Character Connections and Societal Commentary

Candy's lament about his dog parallels George's relationship with Lennie, both highlighting the burden of caretaker roles.
Crooks’ isolation due to racial discrimination deepens the narrative of loneliness compared to other characters' struggles.
Steinbeck’s depiction of settings, like Crooks' living quarters, emphasizes characters’ circumstances and their effects on interpersonal dynamics.

Conclusion of Chapter Conflicts

The chapter concludes with a confrontation that encapsulates the overarching themes of power dynamics, survival, and the bitter reality of life for marginalized characters.
Slim’s intervention safeguards George and Lennie while revealing Curley's fear of being exposed, showcasing complexities in the social hierarchy among the characters.### Lennie and Crooks Interchange
Crooks' question about George not returning provokes Lennie’s insecurities, highlighting Lennie's dependency on George.
Lennie's resulting anger towards Crooks showcases his emotional immaturity, as he can't cope with the idea of abandonment.
The dialogue underscores themes of power dynamics; Crooks, despite being marginalized, derives satisfaction from affecting Lennie's confidence.

Crooks' Motivation

Crooks wants Lennie to experience loneliness, saying everyone needs companionship, emphasizing human necessity for connection.
The statement reflects Crooks' own isolation due to racial discrimination and societal neglect.

Curley’s Wife's Entrance

Curley’s wife confronts the men similarly to Crooks confronting Lennie; both seek to assert power in a world where they feel powerless.
She laments her own loneliness and desire for interaction, paralleling Crooks’ feelings of isolation.

Curley’s Wife Characterization

Initially portrayed as flirtatious and mean-spirited, her vulnerability emerges as her loneliness comes to light during conversations.
She addresses her aspirations and past, which reveals her resigned existence and highlights societal oppression based on gender.

Theme of Power and Powerlessness

Crooks initially attempts to wield power over Lennie through his words, which later shifts dramatically as Curley's wife asserts dominance over Crooks.
Curley’s wife wields her power over Crooks, showcasing the complexity of power dynamics in their lives.

Steinbeck’s Structural Choices

Steinbeck diversifies narrative focus to develop marginalized characters like Crooks and Curley’s wife, fostering empathy for their struggles.
Their intertwined narratives demonstrate societal isolation via race and gender, enriching the story’s themes of loneliness.

Curley's Wife's Threats

Her confrontation leads to Crooks feeling diminished and defeated, as indicated by his shrinking demeanor and loss of assertiveness.

Tragic Events in Chapter 5

Lennie’s accidental killing of the puppy signifies his underlying capability for violence, which foreshadows future tragic events.
His irrational anger and inability to grasp the consequences of his actions emphasize his child-like mentality and foreshadow additional violence.

Curley’s Wife in the Barn

She is adorned provocatively to elicit attention, affirming her societal role as an object and elevating the tension between desire and danger.

Conversations with Lennie

Both interactions with Crooks and Curley’s wife expose Lennie’s inability to sustain meaningful dialogue due to his fixation on George’s approval.
This highlights Lennie’s emotional stuntedness, making his relationships deeply flawed and unreciprocated.

Curley’s Wife's Dream

She harbors aspirations of stardom, which slip away, contributing to her bitterness and acting as a symbolic reflection of lost dreams in the novel.

Lennie’s Reaction to Violence

Lennie’s panicked response to Curley’s wife’s death echoes his earlier violence towards the puppy, demonstrating a lack of awareness of his strength and its repercussions.

Disillusionment after Tragedy

Candy’s realization that the dream of owning a farm is no longer attainable showcases the pervasive sense of despair following Curley’s wife's death.

George’s Protective Instincts

He fabricates a story about Lennie fleeing to protect him, showing his desperation to shield Lennie from the consequences of his actions.

Implications of Missing Gun

The speculation about the missing gun alludes to George's looming responsibility for Lennie, emphasizing the gravity of their situation and George’s internal conflict.

Closure with Candy

Ending the chapter with Candy beside Curley’s wife's body underscores the tragic toll of lost dreams and human vulnerability, resonating with themes of despair in the Great Depression.

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Explore the key concepts of Steinbeck's 'Of Mice and Men' with this study guide flashcard set. Each card focuses on important elements such as themes, characters, and setting, helping you better understand the novel's depth and meaning.