Character profiles

• What do Steinbeck’s characters symbolize in "Of Mice and Men"?

  They symbolize ideas and represent elements of society.
• Why is it important to consider how Steinbeck portrays characters?

  Because it reflects debates or themes within the story.
• How does Steinbeck use character contrasts in "Of Mice and Men"?

  He contrasts characters to show similarities and differences that highlight themes.
• Who are the main characters in "Of Mice and Men"?

  • George Milton
  • Lennie Small
  • Curley
  • Curley’s wife
• Who are the other characters in "Of Mice and Men"?

  • Candy
  • Crooks
  • Slim
• Who is considered the protagonist of "Of Mice and Men"?

  George Milton
• What does George Milton represent in the story?

  He represents an itinerant worker during the Great Depression.
• How does George's friendship with Lennie set them apart from other itinerant workers?

  They have a plan to buy a piece of land and are the only characters with surnames.
• What do the other characters think of George and Lennie's friendship?

  They are suspicious of their unusual friendship.
• How does George describe their situation compared to other itinerant workers?

  He tells Lennie they are different because they have a "future."
• How is George presented in the novella?

  He is presented sympathetically as intelligent, observant, and cautious.
• Who does George care for in the story?

  Lennie Small
• What does George's character represent in terms of responsibility?

  He represents the idea of responsibility amidst many challenges.
• How does Steinbeck question the American Dream through George's character?

  By illustrating the challenges faced by individuals who work hard but encounter obstacles.
• How is George characterized throughout the novella?

  He is described as "restless," worried, and impatient with Lennie.
• What realization does George come to by the end of the novella?

  He realizes his plans cannot be realized alongside Lennie and faces the future alone.
• How does Steinbeck use George's character to represent itinerant workers' circumstances?

  He illustrates the impossible circumstances facing itinerant workers.
• Who is the other protagonist in "Of Mice and Men"?

  Lennie Small
• What does Lennie's character represent in the novella?

  He represents the lack of social care in 1930s America.
• Who cared for Lennie before George?

  His Aunt Clara
• How does Steinbeck present Lennie's physical strength?

  As his only advantage on the ranch, which causes conflict.
• How does Lennie's reliance on George affect their friendship?

  It creates suspicion and conflict on the ranch.
• What does Steinbeck imply about vulnerable individuals through Lennie's character?

  They can become fearful and jealous.
• How does Steinbeck use animal imagery in relation to Lennie?

  To suggest that Lennie is unpredictable, instinctive, and physically strong.
• What does Lennie's surname suggest about his character?

  It is ironic, as he is compared to a bear and a horse.
• What does Lennie's actions with the mouse and puppy foreshadow?

  They foreshadow further tragedy in the novella.
• How is Lennie characterized despite his violence?

  He is portrayed as sympathetic, innocent, and naive.
• What does Lennie's tragic death illustrate in the novella?

  It illustrates the powerlessness of disadvantaged individuals in harsh conditions.
• Who is Curley in "Of Mice and Men"?

  He is the boss's son.
• What does Curley represent in the novella?

  He represents a powerful individual with status and land.
• How does Curley function as a foil character for Slim?

  Slim brings calm to the ranch, while Curley is feared for his quick temper.
• How is Curley characterized in the novella?

  He is aggressive and quick to anger.
• What does Curley's insecurity lead to in the novella?

  It brings conflict and tragedy.
• How does Curley attempt to control others?

  He uses fear and intimidation.
• What does Curley's small size symbolize in the novella?

  It symbolizes his desperate desire to exert authority.
• How does Curley's behavior towards his wife illustrate sexism?

  He attempts to limit her freedoms and restrict her dreams.
• Who is Curley’s wife in the novella?

  She is the only female on the ranch.
• What does Curley’s wife represent in "Of Mice and Men"?

  She represents a marginalized and displaced woman.
• How is Curley’s wife characterized in relation to the men on the ranch?

  She is ignored by almost all the men and seen as a sexual threat.
• What dream does Curley’s wife have?


  She dreams of becoming a Hollywood film star.