John Steinbeck's Of Mice And Men

Learning Is Valuable

During the Great Depression, the average family income fell from $2300 to $1500 per year. Throughout this time period, several battled through harsh events that taught them many vital lessons. Specifically, they acquired convenient morals along the lines of being loyal to each other and dealing with difficult mental stages, which is prevalent in the novella Of Mice And Men by John Steinbeck. The novella took place during the Great Depression, a time between 1929 and 1941 in which the United States economy was at a low point and millions of individuals struggled financially. As the story progresses, readers are informed on its motifs and can relate to instances that connect with any demographic, especially teenagers.

Its themes and morals can help high school students overcome difficult obstacles during their teenage years. First, George Milton discusses how he learns to treat his friend, Lennie Small, with more value after treating him extensively inappropriate. A high school student can learn from this because it teaches how to have a good character ethic, especially during teenage years which is a time it is significant in. The idea of treating others the way they want is a lifelong skill and many teenagers can relate to situations in which they have to do this in order to succeed. Second, another reason why Of Mice And Men is worth keeping in the curriculum is because it teaches the importance of equality. Crooks faces discrimination from others and mentions “they play cards in there, but he can’t play because he’s black” (68). This exposes young readers to be open minded and treat others equally. Nonetheless, this an important skill whether it's in business, with friends, or any other events in the real world. For instance, there

There are countless instances in the novella that will let students know they are not alone. First, a reason why Of Mice And Men should remain in the curriculum is due to the fact the novella describes the ups and downs of a friendship. George and Lennie are best friends, but throughout the story many instances occur such as Lennie killing a puppy, killing Curley’s wife, and arguing with other men on the farm. As a high school student, friends come and go, but even the best of friends won’t be easy to have a relationship with. In hindsight, this educates readers on how to work through conflict and unpredictability, no matter how difficult it may be. Second, another specific example that supports why Of Mice And Men should stay in the class is Candy’s dog, which Carlson doesn’t “know nothing that stinks as bad as the old dog” (44). The dog is an eye opener for what people really value in society, and some teenagers may feel useless or like a waste of space. With the context of the dog, teens can realize that it is not their fault for feeling lonely or unimportant, and that focusing on what society thinks should be the least of concern. Last, an example for why Of Mice And Men should continue being taught to high school students deals with the death of Aunt Clara, Lennie’s aunt. People of all ages may deal with family