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Lennie Smalls Character Analysis

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Soledad, California is where John Steinbeck’s Of Mice And Men takes place. A tale of two friends George Milton and Lennie Smalls trying to reach a what most people during that time had , a dream that was with each passing day seemed more and more impossible. Through his writing Steinbeck illustrates his characters personalities , particularly Lennie, who is kind loyal and innocent , through their dialogue and actions. Lennie Smalls is described as “a huge man, shapeless of face, with large, pale eyes, with wide, sloping shoulders” (Steinbeck 2) in contrast to his partner the bony and defined George Milton. His appearance comes off as frightening but is soon shown to be mentally disabled, giving off a wave of innocence. After George again took a mouse from Lennie, George “ heard Lennie’s whimpering cry … Lennie’s lip quivered and tears started in his eyes” (Steinbeck 9-10). Lennie is incapable of having his mental standing ever match his physical. He is almost child like with George taking care of him. Throughout the novel George views Lennie as a burden while Lennie views him as a loyal friend to which he reciprocates this loyalty. When he mentions to George that he wanted his beans with ketchup, George explodes and proceeds to tell Lennie how much trouble he is and how much better his life would be if didn't have to tend to him. …show more content…

When presented with one of Slims dogs new pups, he gets overly excited and tries to smuggle the pup into the cabin. Upon being caught by George he pleads with him explaining that he “ Didnt mean no harm” and he “jus’ wanted to pet ‘um a little” ( Steinbeck )
Lennie wouldn't harm a soul. He is kind with no thought of repercussions. Lennie though intimidating in stature is the child like, innocent, Kind and Lola characters in the novel. Steinbeck illustrates this through Lennie's choice of words and his limited actions. He is a companion for the ages

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