Friendship In John Steinbeck's 'Of Mice And Men'

Mice of Men Essay
“Treasure the people who have stayed with you during hard times.” In the novel, Of Mice and Men , Steinbeck writes about two migrant laborers named Lennie, a mentally disabled man who depends on George, a small man who are looking for work during the Great Depression. Thier ambition of owning their own ranch may be strong but obstacles stand in the way that shows the true meaning of friendship. Throughout the novel, Steinbeck uses different types of friendship to convey the message that companionship is necessary for difficult times. Every person needs a friendship that will help them get through hardships that life throws at them. For instance, one character named Crooks may not have a friendship that helps him

One of the biggest examples that show how important friendship is the relationship between Candy and his dog. What is upsetting is the thought of Candy working for so long on a ranch only to be injured and

Lennie and George had a very strong connection that without noticing it they not only had each other but they needed each other. According to the story, Lennie and George have known each other for quite a while causing them to grow closer. Throughout the story, readers can infer how Lennie and George's relationship helps them get through challenges. For example, in the story it states,” Look, Lennie. I want you to look around here. You can remember this place can't you? The ranch is about a quarter mile up that way. Well, look. Lennie- if you jus’ happen to get in trouble like you always done before I want you to come right here an’ hide in the bush.”(Steinfeld) As readers can tell throughout the novel, George cares for Lennie by making sure he is safe, without George, Lennie would have stirred up more trouble. Another example of George helping LEnnie overcome a challenge is when Lennie gets in a fight. “Lennie took his hands aways from his faces and looked for George, and Curley slashed at his eyes. the big face was covered with blood. George yelled again,” I said get him.” (Steinfeld) Lennie cares for George because he wants George to be happy and stay with him not be upset at him. Lennie even offers to leave if he makes George's life too complicated, of course George denied this offer. Lastly, although many might not see it as helping Lennie out of a challenge George shoots Lennie in the head. (Steinfeld)