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Of Mice and Men: A Complete Study Guide and Summary

John Steinbeck’s classic novella, Of Mice and Men, explores the lives of migrant workers during the Great Depression in California. This guide provides a clear summary of the plot and key themes to help students prepare for class discussions and exams.

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Plot Overview: The Dream of the Farm

The story follows two migrant workers, George Milton and Lennie Small, as they travel looking for work. George is small and quick-witted, while Lennie is a large man with an intellectual disability and a gentle heart. They share a common dream: to save enough money to buy their own piece of land where they can 'live off the fatta the lan' and Lennie can tend to rabbits. This dream represents hope and a sense of belonging in a world that is otherwise harsh and unforgiving.

Conflict at the Ranch

After arriving at a ranch near Soledad, George and Lennie meet a cast of characters that highlight the social hierarchy of the time. They encounter Candy, an aging ranch hand; Curley, the boss’s aggressive son; and Curley’s unnamed wife, who is isolated and lonely. Despite George's warnings to stay out of trouble, Lennie’s physical strength and lack of social understanding lead to increasing tension. The ranch becomes a microcosm of a society that offers little protection to the vulnerable.

The Tragic Turning Point

The narrative reaches its climax when Lennie accidentally kills Curley's wife in the barn. Panic-stricken, Lennie flees to a pre-arranged meeting spot by the river. When the other ranch hands discover the body, they form a lynch mob led by the vengeful Curley. George realizes that their dream of the farm is over and that he must make a devastating choice to protect Lennie from a much more violent end at the hands of the mob.

Key Themes and Symbols

Steinbeck uses the novella to examine the nature of the American Dream, the reality of loneliness, and the value of friendship. The title itself, drawn from Robert Burns' poetry, suggests that even the best-laid plans often fail. Symbolism is found throughout the text, from the idyllic riverside setting to the various animals that represent innocence and the predatory nature of the world. Understanding these themes is essential for writing high-scoring literature essays.

What is the main message of Of Mice and Men?

The book explores the fragility of the American Dream and the necessity of human companionship. It suggests that while dreams provide hope, they are often thwarted by economic reality and human nature.

Why does George kill Lennie at the end?

George kills Lennie out of mercy. He wants to ensure Lennie's final moments are peaceful and happy, rather than allowing him to be captured or killed violently by Curley's mob.

Who are the main characters in the novella?

The main characters are George Milton, Lennie Small, Candy, Curley, and Curley's wife. Each character represents a different aspect of social isolation during the Great Depression.

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