Dreams in Of Mice and Men: Hope or Harm?
John Steinbeck's novella "Of Mice and Men" uses dreams as a central theme to explore the human condition during the Great Depression. The author presents various characters' aspirations to illustrate both the power of hope and the potential dangers of unrealistic expectations.
Highlight: Dreams in the novella are closely linked to the concept of the American Dream, reflecting the belief that hard work can lead to success and a better life.
The text argues that dreams can be both beneficial and detrimental. While they provide motivation and comfort, the failure to achieve these dreams can lead to emotional devastation. This duality is exemplified through several character arcs:
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Lennie and George's dream: Their shared vision of owning land offers structure to their friendship and hope for the future.
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Candy's involvement: After losing his dog, Candy finds new purpose by joining George and Lennie's dream.
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Crooks' skepticism: His cynical view of dreams reflects the harsh realities faced by many during this era.
Quote: Crooks states, "Nobody gets to heaven and nobody gets no land," emphasizing the perceived unattainability of dreams.
The novella suggests that while dreams can provide temporary solace, they may ultimately distract characters from their present circumstances. Steinbeck uses this theme to comment on the broader societal conditions of 1930s America, where economic hardship made many aspirations seem like fantasy.
Vocabulary: Migrant workers - Laborers who travel from place to place for seasonal work, a common phenomenon during the Great Depression.
