Context Prejudice towards blacks Jim Crow laws American Civil war – divide between North and South Economic depression High unemployment Exploitation of workers Hostility towards migrant workers Series of dust storms – damaged land Generally this was a terrible time for the vulnerable and the weak – society lacked compassion Patriarchal society – lack of equality for women Limited education Focus upon marriage but it was not an equal partnership Influence of Hollywood upon female aspirations The importance of the American dream – people were living bleak lives and they needed something to hold on to The dream was idealistic but it gave hope Many of the main characters in the story have a dream

REVISE THE THEME OF: DEATH In today’s lesson we shall...

Death There are an abundance of deaths in the novel, both in the animal world and human. Perhaps Steinbeck is trying to show us the harshness of life. As the novel progresses there is a build up of more significant deaths. The lesser deaths of the animals foreshadow the later events involving humans.(STRUCTURAL COMMENT) As well as physical death we also see the death of: DREAMS and FRIENDSHIP.

Death Steinbeck manipulates death to help us understand the plight of a particular character (Candy) or to help the reader to re-evaluate a character (Curley’s wife). It is also used to help us understand characteristics within a certain character (Lennie) or a particular relationship (Curley and his wife or George and Lennie).

Section 1 Page 23 Lennie admits to George that he has been petting a dead mouse. The death of this tiny, insignificant creature foreshadows later deaths. (Curley’s wife/ Candy’ s dog/puppy.) The death also helps us to understand the relationship between the two men. We see that George needs to protect Lennie. (water page 20) It also characterises Lennie. He likes to caress anything that is soft. (Girl in Weed- page 68 Curley’s wife page127) Helps us to understand this dangerous facet in his character.

Section 2 Slim has made the decision to drown 4 of Lulu’s pups. His remarks show the brutal reality of life in 1930’s rural America. Only the strong can survive. (page 58) It is significant that it is Slim that makes this decision. Remember he will later authorise the death of Candy’s dog (page 74) and he will support George in his decision to end Lennie’s existence. (Page 148)

Section 3 George warns Lennie that he will kill the young pup that has been given to him. Lennie has taken the pup out of his nest (page 69). Once again we are reminded of George’s understanding of his friend and Lennie’s potential to harm things he wishes to love. Interesting juxtaposition here.

Section 3 Death of Candy’s dog – page 71/76. Moment of great poignancy Look at the atmosphere – sounds heighten the tension and sadness His death mirrors the harsh reality facing Candy himself. Candy’s remorse at not killing the dog himself will have a huge influence on George (page 89) Consider the importance of structure here.

Section 5 Death of the puppy (page 120) – method of characterisation. Helps us to see Lennie as a threat. He is also very childlike. He cannot take responsibility for what he has done and hides the tiny body. Structurally, the event is very important because it foreshadows future deaths.

Section 5 Curley’s wife (page 127 – 133) Explore: The atmosphere What it reveals about male and female relationships Our changing perception of her character Her relationship with her husband How the other men view her death– Candy’s anger is very important. Is this a misogynistic society? Consider historical context and remember Steinbeck’s letter to Miss Luce

Section 6 Page 140 – death of the snake. Reveals the brutality of nature. We cannot be protected from it. George will be unable to protect Lennie from his fate.

Section 6 Lennie’s death – page 147 Powerful atmosphere is evoked. Consider sounds. Helps us to understand their friendship Poignant - George will be alone Essential in helping us to understand American society. Lack of compassion for the weak. Why was this the case? Consider the economical climate in 1930’s America.