Of Mice and Men Group

Question:

bani1993
bani1993
Student
High School - 11th Grade

What hints are there in the opening dialouge between George and Lennie to tell us about the nature of their relationship?

Rate question:

Posted by bani1993 on Saturday November 15, 2008 at 8:47 AM and tagged with characters, george, lennie, of mice and men, opening dialogue, relationship.

Answers:

  1. renkins44
    renkins44 Teacher
    High School - 10th Grade

    eNotes Editor

    First examine the physical characterization of both characters; it is revealing of their overall personalities. George is given sharp, distinctive features that convey his cunning, witty ability to survive. On the other hand, Lennie is given blunt, shapeless features that portray his mental disability. Thus, from the beginning, the reader gets a sense of the distinct differences between the two.

    In addition, George speaks condescendingly towards Lennie throughout the beginning. Lennie asks what seems to be innocent questions and they are met by George with harsh, derogatory responses. Nonetheless, Lennie follows George and acts relatively unaffected. As a result, the reader gets the feeling that one is clear leader on a determined path while the other is a dependent follower.  

    Sources:
    http://www.enotes.com/ofmice/characters

    Rate answer:

    Posted by renkins44 on Monday November 17, 2008 at 12:39 PM