Themes

• What are the key themes in "Of Mice and Men"?

  Dreams, Loneliness, Discrimination, Power
• Why is it important to understand the themes in "Of Mice and Men" for the exam?

  It helps demonstrate the relationship between the text and its social and historical context.
• What does Steinbeck explore regarding the American Dream in "Of Mice and Men"?

  He explores its futility in the face of powerful external forces.
• What historical context is "Of Mice and Men" set in?

  The Great Depression in America.
• How does Steinbeck contrast dreams with the setting in "Of Mice and Men"?

  He juxtaposes dreams with the harsh physical setting and the characters' poverty and suffering.
• What do George and Lennie dream of in "Of Mice and Men"?

  Independence and freedom on their own farm.
• What does Curley's wife hope for in "Of Mice and Men"?

  A future of fame and to escape her oppressive, loveless marriage.
• What does Crooks dream of in "Of Mice and Men"?

  A life of acceptance and dignity, free from prejudice.
• How do dreams provide purpose for the characters in "Of Mice and Men"?

  They offer respite from the daily misery and repetitiveness of their lives.
• What does the repetition of George and Lennie's dream signify?

  It highlights their hope and the importance of shared dreams.
• What is Steinbeck's ultimate message about the American Dream in "Of Mice and Men"?

  It is an illusion, little more than a fantasy.
• What does the setting of Soledad translate to in English?

  Solitude.
• How does Steinbeck portray the isolation of characters like Candy, Crooks, and Curley's wife?

  They are isolated on the ranch and represent minority groups in society.
• What does the character of Slim represent in "Of Mice and Men"?


  A rancher who explains that everyone is "scared of each other," highlighting societal values.
• How does the tragedy in "Of Mice and Men" exemplify the impact of other individuals on friendships?

  It shows how companionship can be taken away by external forces.
• What does Steinbeck's unresolved ending suggest about marginalized groups?

  There is little hope for them.
• How does Steinbeck illustrate discrimination in "Of Mice and Men"?

  By creating a microcosm of society on the ranch that highlights aspects of discrimination.
• What does Curley's wife represent in the context of discrimination?


  The only female character who is isolated and viewed suspiciously.
• How does Steinbeck exemplify racism in "Of Mice and Men"?

  By including racial slurs in the characters' dialogue.
• What does the character of Crooks represent in "Of Mice and Men"?

  A marginalized character who is segregated due to his race.
• How does Steinbeck depict the lack of social care through the character of Candy?

  By showing his limited autonomy and struggle to survive.
• What is Lennie's perceived role on the ranch?

  He is seen as the main threat due to his learning difficulties.
• What does Steinbeck explore regarding power in "Of Mice and Men"?

  The powerlessness of man against nature and the futility of making plans.
• What does the cyclical structure of the novel represent?

  The limited impact individuals have on their environment.
• How does Steinbeck illustrate the struggle for survival in "Of Mice and Men"?


  By depicting a remote and rural landscape where characters fight for autonomy.
• What does the power struggle between Slim and Curley represent?

  The dynamics of respect and power that must be earned.
• How does George's paranoia reflect his powerlessness?

  He is constantly suspicious and reliant on Lennie's behavior.
• What is Lennie's inability to control his impulses indicative of?

  His intellectual powerlessness against George.
• How does Curley's wife experience powerlessness in "Of Mice and Men"?


  She is not free to follow her pursuits due to Curley's control.
• What does Candy's situation reveal about power dynamics on the ranch?

  He is powerless to stop stronger men from taking his dog and finding his own land.
• What does Steinbeck's ending suggest about freedom and autonomy?

  They are impossible for those who have little power in society.
• How does Steinbeck examine the impact of the Great Depression on individual lives?

  By illustrating the powerlessness of individuals made desperate by external forces.