Of Mice and Men Chapter 1

Author’s Style Word Choice – Soledad – means “loneliness” or “solitude” in Spanish. Refers to one of the novel’s main themes. Written Like a Play – Each chapter begins with a setting that is described much the same way that a stage setting is described. – All the action occurs in this one spot, much like a stage setting. – After the main action in the scene, the focus pulls away from the action, preparing the reader for the next scene.

Symbols The Clearing – The clearing is described as a perfectly serene, beautiful place away from the troubles in the world. It is almost like Eden, untouched by people and their sins. It also becomes a sanctuary as the men camp there for the night, and George tells Lennie to return there if anything ever happens. George and Lennie’s Farm – A paradise for men who want to be masters of their own lives, the farm represents the possibility of freedom, self-reliance, and protection from the cruelties of the world.

Motif – Strength and Weakness Physical strength – Lennie possesses physical strength beyond his control, as when he cannot help killing the mice. – Great physical strength is, like money, quite valuable to men in George and Lennie’s circumstances. Lennie’s strength is especially important, because that is the only reason he can find work. Mental Weakness – Although Lennie is very strong physically, his mental state is incredibly weak. He acts and thinks on impulses, like an animal or a small child. He is unable to remember details and events, and doesn’t seem completely in touch with reality.

Foreshadowing Lennie’s Strength – Much focus has been placed on Lennie’s strength already. Although his strength can be positive in terms of employment, we see his strength may also cause trouble. He has a history of accidentally killing small animals because he doesn’t know his own strength. Trouble in Weed – Although we don’t know many of the details yet, we know something bad happened in Weed that was Lennie’s fault. Whatever it was, it was bad enough that people chased them out of town, and George is worried that that may happen again. Meeting Place – Because of his concerns from Weed, George tells Lennie that if anything bad happens, he should meet him back at the clearing where this first scene takes place.

Lennie – Compared to a bear because of his huge size, and his hands are called “paws” – Compared to a terrier when he does not want to bring the dead mouse to George – Associated with rabbits and mice – With his enormous strength and lack of intelligence, common sense, and responsibility, how well does he fit into human society? Animal Imagery

Characters – George and Lennie Similarities and Differences – Similarities – Both wear similar clothes and carry blanket rolls The larger man imitates the smaller man – Differences – One is huge and shapeless, lumbering along like a bear; the other is small and carefully defined, with slender arms and small hands. Obvious mental differences Reactions to the pond differ – George stands back and questions the cleanliness of the water, while Lennie dives in immediately, slurping it up like a horse.

Characters – George and Lennie Their Relationship – The Good – George takes care of Lennie, giving him advice and instructions. George has learned to anticipate Lennie’s words and actions. He carries his work card for him because he knows he’ll lose it, tells him to repeat things so he won’t forget it, correctly guesses that he’s hiding a dead mouse, etc. It is obvious George cares deeply for Lennie by taking such good care of him. He also appreciates having a companion (“With us it ain’t like that…We got somebody to talk to that gives a damn about us.” p.14). While he says he could have a different life without Lennie, he still includes him in his future plans. – The Bad – George knows that Lennie can’t remember or follow his advice and instructions, and is easily frustrated. George was forced to leave Weed because of Lennie’s actions, and he is bitter about that. George feels burdened by Lennie, and often imagines himself having a better life without him.

The Significance of Names George Milton – – The name George means “shepherd”, which is appropriate because George guides Lennie as if he were one of his sheep. – Milton refers to John Milton, the author of the epic poem Paradise Lost Lennie Small – – The name Leonard means “lion”, which is appropriate because of Lennie’s extreme physical strength. It is also rather ironic, because Lennie does not have a fierce personality – he is like a small child. – The last name “Small” is also ironic because of Lennie’s enormous size.

What does your name mean? Does it fit your personality?