Friendship in the novel Of mice and Men The novel Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck was written in the 1930’s during the Great Depression. The novel explores the friendship of two men, George and Lennie, who help the reader understand the struggles of survival for many people during the Great Depression. This is further complicated with Lennie being cognitively delayed and brawley, causing him to make disastrous decisions. George is the opposite, he’s a lot smaller but he’s smart. George claims that he does not need Lennie, but deep down George knows he needs Lennie as much as Lennie needs him. That’s why George does not leave Lennie’s side no matter what Lennie does. This essay will seek to prove that friendship is a basic need for anyone through the lives of George and Lennie. SUMMARY …show more content…
George takes care of Lennie because Lennie is cognitively delayed, but despite George’s efforts, Lennie has done many things that have gotten them in a lot of trouble. However, George always gets Lennie out of trouble so they can continue to pursue their dreams of raising enough money to own a ranch. George and Lennie start working at a new farm and face many challenges that make it extremely difficult for the two to reach their goal, but they have each other to ensure The first example of friendship being the primary theme is how George reasures Lennie when in doubt. George and Lennie are forced to run away after being chased by townspeople because Lennie assaulted a woman. They run off to work and while on the run, the two men set up camp and a fire for the night. George brings out 3 cans of beans and places them by the fire to cook, and Lennie says “I like ‘em with ketchup.” (Steinbeck 10) George loses his temper and causes the situation to escalate. They go back and forth and Lennie becomes hurt by the things