Curley's Character Analysis
Curley, a central antagonist in "Of Mice and Men", is characterized by his aggressive behavior and Napoleon complex. Curley Of Mice and Men quotes reveal his confrontational nature and insecurity.
Physical Appearance and Stance:
Curley is described as short in stature, which contributes to his aggressive demeanor. His physical stance is often defensive and ready for confrontation.
Quote: "HIS HANDS CLOSED INTO FISTS. HE STIFFENED AND WENT INTO A SLIGHT CROUCH"
This quote illustrates Curley's constant readiness for physical altercation, highlighting his aggressive nature.
Violent Tendencies:
Curley's violent nature is evident through the use of forceful verbs describing his actions.
Highlight: The text uses phrases like "CURLEY LASHED HIS BODY AROUND" and "SLUGGING HIM CONSTALY" to emphasize Curley's aggressive behavior.
Quote: "HESLASHED AT LENNIE W/ HIS LEFT... SMASHED DOWN HIS NOSE WITH A RIGHT"
These descriptions paint a vivid picture of Curley's violent tendencies, which are central to his character.
Position and Power:
As the boss's son, Curley holds a position of power on the ranch. This status, combined with his background as an amateur boxer, fuels his aggressive behavior.
Quote: "COMEON YA BIG BSTARD... NO BIG SON-OF-A-BTCH IS GONNA LAUGH AT ME. ILL SHOW YA WHOS VELA"
This quote demonstrates Curley's need to assert his dominance and his readiness to engage in conflict.
Relationship with His Wife:
Curley's relationship with his wife is possessive and controlling. He treats her as a possession rather than a partner.
Quote: "ANY OF YOU GUYS SEEN MY WIFE? HETREATS WHERE THE HELL'S SLIM?"
This quote shows Curley's possessive attitude towards his wife, viewing her as his property.
Quote: "SURE I GOTTA HUSBAN SWELL GUY AIN'T HE?"
This sarcastic comment from Curley's wife reveals the unhappiness in their marriage and her negative view of Curley's behavior.
Curley's values and beliefs are centered around physical power, dominance, and control. His insecurity about his height drives him to assert his authority through violence and intimidation. The significance of Curley's name could be interpreted as ironic, as "Curley" suggests something small or curled up, contrasting with his attempts to appear big and powerful.
Vocabulary: Napoleon complex - A term used to describe a personality complex often attributed to people of short stature, characterized by overly-aggressive or domineering social behavior.
Curley's character serves as a catalyst for conflict in the novel, creating tension and foreshadowing violent events to come. His interactions with other characters, particularly Lennie, are crucial to the development of the plot and themes in "Of Mice and Men".
