Of Mice and Men Test

by Michael Stultz, M.A.

Grade 9

A. Directions: Match each character with his “dream” or “goal.”

B. Directions: Choose the letter that best answers the statement.

Dramatic Irony is when the reader knows something (usually bad) will happen to a character before that same character in a novel knows. Often the character will never know the event will happen. Which of the following is an example of dramatic irony? a. George performs the “mercy killing” on Lennie b. George tells Lennie to fight back against Curley c. Carlson shoots Candy’s dog d. Crooks teases Lennie about George not returning from town.
Foreshadowing happens when an author drops hints as to what events will happen later in the novel. Which of the following is NOT an example of foreshadowing? a. Lennie tears the dress of the woman in Weed b. Candy tells George he regrets not having shot his dog himself c. George tells Lennie to stay away from “that tart” d. Lennie comes into Crooks’ room without permission.
There is a social hierarchy on the ranch, with the boss and Curley at the top and the men who work there well below. Of the workers, who is the most aggressive and predatory toward the weak? a. Candy b. Carlson c. Slim d. Whit
Which character on the ranch is the weakest, or the lowest on the social ladder? a. Candy b. Curley’s wife c. Crooks d. Lennie
The main symbol in the novel connected with the “American Dream” is the a. mice b. rabbits c. pups d. horses

C. Essay

Think carefully about the following quote.

“The best laid plans of mice and men often go awry.” Robert Burns, Scottish poet

Assignment:

What does this quote mean? Why did Steinbeck choose this quote forthe title? What “best laid plans” go awry, or wrong, in the novella? Why does the author use the phrase “mice and men,” as if they are being compared?
Plan and write an essay in which you develop your views on this title. Support your positions with reasoning and examples taken from your reading of Of Mice and Men only. Pre-write below for at least 3-4 minutes before you begin your essay. Be sure to have 2 or 3 ideas in your essay. You will have the entire period to write.

Short Of Mice and Men Test - Multiple Choice and Essay