Literary Style
Structure
Of Mice and Men, with its tightly focused narrative, marks Steinbeck's initial foray into blending the novel and play formats, merging elements of both genres. Consequently, the novel required minimal adjustments before its Broadway adaptation. The story is structured into three acts, each consisting of two chapters. Each chapter or scene offers sparse descriptions of setting, character, or action. This economy of detail is a part of the novel's strength. The action is mostly confined to the bunkhouse. The timeline spans just three days, from Thursday evening to Sunday evening, heightening the sense of suspense and drama.
Point of View
The novel adopts a generally objective point of view, refraining from aligning with any single character, and is limited to external descriptions. The third-person narrative perspective imparts an impersonal tone. With few exceptions, the narrative focuses on what an external observer might easily notice: a riverbank, a bunkhouse, a character's physical appearance, or card players at a table. The focus on time is also restricted to the present, with no flashbacks to past events. The reader learns about Lennie and George's history solely through their dialogue. Characters express their thoughts, memories, and fantasies directly, except for Lennie's hallucinations in Chapter 6, where he envisions a giant rabbit and Aunt Clara.
Setting
Set in California's Salinas Valley, the story unfolds on a large ranch during the Great Depression. In the 1930s, California's agricultural landscape, especially in Salinas Valley, was dominated by large collective farms or "farm factories" owned by wealthy landowners and banks. These farms employed hundreds of workers, many of whom were migrants. Small farms, like the one Lennie and George dream of owning, were relatively rare. On these vast farms, low wages for fruit and vegetable picking often led to economic unrest. In September 1936, thousands of lettuce workers in Salinas Valley went on strike over low wages. The situation became so tense that an army officer was brought in to lead vigilantes against the strikers. The strike was quashed within a month. Steinbeck covered the strike as a reporter for the San Francisco News.
Symbolism
The novel's most significant symbol is the bank of the Salinas River, where the story both begins and concludes. At the start, George and Lennie arrive at this riverbank, which symbolizes a retreat from the world to a state of natural innocence. In this initial scene, George instructs Lennie to return to this spot if any trouble arises at the ranch they intend to work at. This riverbank represents a "safe place" for the two characters. Another prominent symbol is the rabbits: Lennie frequently asks George to tell him about the rabbits, which symbolize the safe haven they both dream about. The core symbol is the dream itself: "a little house and a couple of acres and a cow and some pigs." This ideal place keeps George and Lennie bonded and offers a glimmer of hope, albeit briefly, to two other men they will meet at the ranch. Upon their arrival at the ranch, the bunkhouse and farm symbolize the inherent emptiness of that world, providing only minimal physical security.
Foreshadowing
Foreshadowing, where events subtly hint at future occurrences, enhances suspense in the novel. Lennie's rough treatment of mice and the puppy, the shooting of Candy's old dog, the crushing of Curley's hand, and the frequent appearances of Curley's wife all predict future violence. Steinbeck tells the reader about the mice and puppy, as well as the scene where Lennie crushes Curley's hand, making Lennie's eventual killing of Curley's wife both believable and seemingly inevitable. Additionally, at the book's outset, the reader learns that George and Lennie had to leave Weed because Lennie got into trouble for touching a girl's dress. The incident where Candy's dog is shot also foreshadows George's shooting of Lennie, drawing an ironic comparison between the value placed on the life of a dog and that of a man.
Character Development
Given the brevity of Of Mice and Men, there is minimal character development. Instead, Steinbeck focuses on revealing his characters and presenting them as either sympathetic or unsympathetic to draw attention to their struggles. The most complex character, George, faces a dilemma between protecting Lennie or abandoning him to pursue his own future. While it is unclear if he could succeed without Lennie, it is evident that staying with Lennie will get him nowhere. Despite this, George remains loyal to his friend, achieving a sense of dignity even when his dreams of a happy future are shattered.
Steinbeck underscores his characters' struggles through his masterful use of imagery. The novel is filled with references to traps and entrapment, while the recurrent use of animal imagery provides a means to compare and understand the emotional states of the human characters. In this manner, the novel stays true to the essence of the literary piece it draws its title from, Robert Burns's poem, "To a Mouse."
Expert Q&A
Steinbeck's Techniques for Establishing Setting and Mood in "Of Mice and Men"
In the opening chapter of Of Mice and Men, Steinbeck creates a serene and idyllic setting along the Salinas River, using detailed descriptions of nature to establish a peaceful mood. This tranquil environment contrasts sharply with the chaotic lives of the characters, George and Lennie, whose arrival introduces tension. Through vivid imagery and a blend of positive and negative connotations, Steinbeck foreshadows the impending conflicts and challenges the characters will face, hinting at the story's underlying themes of impermanence and human struggle.
Diction and Dialect in Of Mice and Men
In Of Mice and Men, Steinbeck uses dialect to reflect the regional and social backgrounds of his characters, primarily the uneducated ranch workers. This is seen in their use of slang and grammatical errors, such as "gonna" or "ain't." Characters like George, Lennie, Crooks, and Candy speak in authentic, non-standard English, providing realism and depth to their dialogue. Steinbeck contrasts this with the polished prose of the narrator, imbuing the characters and their dreams with dignity and authenticity.
What mood does Steinbeck create in the first paragraph of Of Mice and Men, and what five adjectives contribute to it?
In the first paragraph of Of Mice and Men, Steinbeck creates a serene and flourishing mood by describing the Salinas River as peaceful and abundant. Five adjectives that contribute to this mood include "green," "golden," "fresh," "crisp," and "damp." These words evoke an Eden-like setting, contrasting with the harsh realities faced by the characters, and foreshadowing the deprivation of freedom and beauty Lennie will ultimately face.
What type of diction dominates the first chapter of Of Mice and Men?
Writing Style and Narrative Techniques in Of Mice and Men
John Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men is a tragic novella that combines novelistic and dramatic elements. It features a limited setting, plot, and character range, contributing to its unique genre as a "fusion" tragic novel. Steinbeck employs a direct, third-person omniscient narrative style, allowing readers to experience the emotions and struggles of all characters objectively. This style enhances the narrative's urgency and tension, reflecting the harsh realities faced by its characters. The prose is simple and unpretentious, reflecting the lives of the working poor, and is noted for its effective dialogue, contributing to its classic status.
Steinbeck's establishment and alteration of mood in Of Mice and Men
In Of Mice and Men, Steinbeck establishes a mood of hope and camaraderie through the dreams and friendship of George and Lennie. However, this mood shifts to one of despair and inevitability as the harsh realities of their circumstances and the cruelty of others lead to the tragic conclusion.
What is the overall mood of the novella Of Mice and Men?
The overall mood of John Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men is dark and pessimistic, reflecting the despair and "quiet desperation" of itinerant workers during the Great Depression. This mood is reinforced by the characters' struggles against an indifferent universe and their thwarted dreams. Tension and apprehension are prevalent, particularly surrounding George's constant worry about Lennie's behavior and potential conflicts with others, exemplifying the men's vulnerability and powerlessness in an uncaring world.
Steinbeck's creation of tone, mood, and atmosphere following Curley's wife's death in Of Mice and Men
Steinbeck creates a somber and tense tone, mood, and atmosphere following Curley's wife's death in Of Mice and Men. The scene shifts to a quiet, almost eerie calm, emphasizing the gravity of the situation and the impending consequences for Lennie and George. The stillness contrasts sharply with the earlier chaos, enhancing the sense of doom and inevitability.
Analysis of how the tone, language, sentence structure, and recurring elements in "Of Mice and Men" contribute to its themes
The tone in Of Mice and Men is often somber and reflective, mirroring the harsh realities faced by the characters. Steinbeck's language is simple yet evocative, enhancing the novel's accessibility and emotional impact. The sentence structure varies, with short, direct sentences emphasizing moments of tension and longer, descriptive passages providing deeper insight. Recurring elements, such as dreams and loneliness, underscore the themes of friendship and the pursuit of unattainable goals.
Setting
The story is set in the 1930s on a ranch in California's Salinas Valley. It begins with the main characters, George Milton and Lennie Small, camping overnight beside a pool along the Salinas River. The next morning, the pair travels to a nearby ranch, where they settle into the bunkhouse. Steinbeck vividly describes the minimally furnished bunkhouse and the hot, dusty ranch land where George and Lennie toil. Several pivotal scenes occur in the ranch's barn; Steinbeck effectively conveys the atmosphere through detailed descriptions of the stalls, horse tack, and the animals that live there. The novel concludes in the same grove of trees by the pool where it began.
Expert Q&A
Explanation of "Old Susy's Place" in Of Mice and Men
"Old Susy's Place" in Of Mice and Men is a brothel that the ranch workers visit for entertainment and relaxation. It serves as a temporary escape from their difficult lives and symbolizes the men's loneliness and desire for connection. The establishment is run by Susy, who is friendly and treats the men well, contrasting with the harsh realities they face daily.
Presentation of Ranch Workers' Lives and Living Conditions in Of Mice and Men
The lives and living conditions of ranch workers in Of Mice and Men are depicted as harsh and lonely. They live in basic, shared bunkhouses with minimal personal space and few comforts. The transient lifestyle and demanding labor contribute to their isolation and lack of stability, emphasizing the themes of loneliness and the pursuit of the American Dream.
The significance of nature and locations in Of Mice and Men
In Of Mice and Men, nature and locations are significant as they reflect the characters' emotions and aspirations. The natural settings, like the clearing by the river, symbolize peace and hope, contrasting with the harsh realities of the itinerant workers' lives. Locations such as the bunkhouse and Crooks’ room highlight themes of isolation and societal division.
Of Mice and Men: Significance of Beginning and Ending at the Pond
Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck begins and ends at the same location, a pool by the Salinas River, signifying both literal and metaphorical cycles. This setting serves as a refuge from societal dangers and symbolizes hope and dreams for George and Lennie. The return to this spot highlights their unchanging situation, reflecting the futility of their dreams, akin to the cyclical nature of the American Dream for itinerant workers. The idyllic setting contrasts with the tragic unfolding of events, providing closure and emphasizing the novel's themes.
Jobs in the Salinas Valley and Of Mice and Men
In the 1930s Salinas Valley, depicted in John Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men, jobs were scarce due to the Great Depression. The available work was primarily agricultural, involving physically demanding tasks like "bucking barley" or maintaining stables. Characters like Lennie and George were migrant workers, moving from farm to farm for low-paying, seasonal jobs. The novel highlights the challenges faced by these workers, who struggled for stability and the American Dream amidst economic hardship.
The Significance and Atmosphere of the Bunkhouse in Of Mice and Men
The bunkhouse in John Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men is depicted as a stark, inadequately furnished space that reflects the harsh and transient lifestyle of the ranch workers. With whitewashed walls, unpainted floors, and minimal amenities, it symbolizes the unwelcoming and impermanent nature of their existence. The bunkhouse lacks comfort and personal space, highlighting the workers' lack of attachments and security. It serves as a setting for significant events, illustrating the workers' dreams, struggles, and the oppressive conditions they endure.
Significance and Influence of Setting in Of Mice and Men
The setting of John Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men begins along the Salinas River in California, near Soledad, during the Great Depression. This serene and natural landscape contrasts sharply with the harsh realities faced by itinerant workers like George and Lennie, who dream of owning land. The setting underscores themes of solitude and hope, serving as a refuge for Lennie if trouble arises. This tranquility contrasts with the cramped, oppressive bunkhouse setting, highlighting the characters' struggles for companionship and stability.
Bunkhouse and Ranch Atmosphere in "Of Mice and Men"
The atmosphere of the ranch and bunkhouse in John Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men is depicted as bleak and unwelcoming. The bunkhouse is austere, with minimal amenities, symbolizing the transient and harsh life of itinerant workers. The ranch environment is tense, marked by an untrustworthy hierarchy, with characters like Curley and his wife adding to the sense of menace. Despite the oppressive conditions, characters cling to dreams of a better future, highlighting themes of isolation and hope amidst adversity.
Symbolism and Significance of the Salinas River in Of Mice and Men
In Of Mice and Men, the Salinas River symbolizes a sanctuary and dream of freedom for George and Lennie, contrasting with the harsh realities of their lives. Initially depicted as an idyllic, peaceful setting, it represents their aspiration for a better life and ownership of land. However, the river also becomes the site of Lennie's tragic end, highlighting the unattainable nature of their dreams and the harsh inevitability of their fate. It underscores themes of nature, freedom, and the inescapable cycle of life.
Setting and Geography of the Salinas Valley in "Of Mice and Men"
The Salinas Valley, setting of John Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men, is located in Central California, renowned for its fertile lands and dubbed "America's Salad Bowl" due to its extensive agriculture. The valley lies between the Gabilan and Santa Lucia mountain ranges, and the Salinas River runs through it. Steinbeck's depiction highlights the contrast between the lush, inviting landscape and the harsh realities of economic hardship faced by migrant workers during the Great Depression, as seen in the novella's ranch setting near Soledad.
Literary Precedents
The novel derives its title from Robert Burns's eighteenth-century poem, "To A Mouse": "The best-laid plans of mice and men," as the poem's narrator notes, "gang aft aglee" — meaning they often go wrong. Thus, the primary theme of the novel is encapsulated in the poem referenced by its title.
The novel shares numerous similarities with both classical and contemporary tragedies. Its cosmic irony aligns it with the works of nineteenth-century American naturalists and the novels of British author Thomas Hardy.
Literary Qualities
Steinbeck effectively highlights his characters' struggles through vivid imagery. The novel frequently references traps and confinement, using animal imagery to provide insight into the characters' emotions. Steinbeck's meticulous use of foreshadowing, particularly in scenes where Lennie accidentally harms animals, intensifies the climax. The looming sense of doom for Lennie becomes especially foreboding in the opening paragraphs of the final chapter, where animals engage in a brutal, seemingly pointless struggle for survival just before George and Lennie have their last meeting by the Salinas River.
George shook himself and said woodenly, "If I was alone I could live so easy."
Steinbeck also skillfully employs literary allusion. The novel's title is derived from Robert Burns's eighteenth-century poem, "To a Mouse," where the narrator reflects that "The best laid plans of mice and men / gang aft aglee"—meaning they often go awry. Burns's poem describes the minor tragedy of a mouse's home being destroyed by a farmer's plough, while Steinbeck amplifies this theme by depicting the struggles of men whose plans are thwarted by uncontrollable forces. Thus, the novel aligns with both classical and modern tragedies and shares a cosmic irony reminiscent of nineteenth-century American naturalists like Frank Norris and British novelist Thomas Hardy.
Get Ahead with eNotes
Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.
Already a member? Log in here.
