In the skillful novel Of Mice and Men, by John Steinbeck, the author carefully portrays the idea of loneliness and prejudice of outsiders in society during the hostile Great Depression. The author was even clever in where the story took place in Soledad, California, which translates to loneliness in Spanish. The story was based off Steinbeck’s own experiences as a rancher in 1929 when the stock market crashed, expressing that a rancher’s lifestyle was one of the desolate lives to live. The author uses the novel Of Mice and Men to deliver a greater message of being one who does not fit into mainstream society. Steinbeck uses characterization within the book through specific characters, such as Crooks, Curley’s Wife, and George, to express major themes of loneliness and prejudice and bringing awareness to the readers. One of the most obvious characters used in the novel to depict isolated at its greatest extent is Crooks, who is described as an outcast separated from the rest of the men because of his race. In the early 1900’s, racism was very common as white people thought they were superior to black people. Crooks’ loneliness is implied through his belongings, but also admits to being so lonely as he says, “S'pose you didn't have nobody. S'pose you couldn't go into the bunk house and play rummy …show more content…
Steinbeck used characterization often to display his theme of loneliness and prejudice, especially through Crooks, Curley’s wife, and George. The author wrote this book in attempts to bring awareness to readers of what it was really like to live and work in such a pivotal time filled with negativity and