The Theme Of Power In John Steinbeck's Of Mice And Men

Power can determine your “place” in life and those with more take dominion over those with little. That can change when the opportunity presents itself. In the realistic fiction novella, Of Mice and Men, by author John Steinbeck the main characters ,George and Lennie, head to a ranch where they can work and eventually achieve their dream of owning a little farm they can call their own. One important theme in the book is power that is portrayed through powerful people, powerless people, and shifting power. The story focuses on George and Lennie and their struggle against society to try to get a new start. George and Lennie were headed to a ranch in the Salinas Valley of California from Weed, California because they ran into trouble. When they arrived at the ranch they met the boss and some of the workers. While waiting to begin their

One example of powerful people throughout the book is when Curley picks on Lennie. This says, “His glance was at once calculating and pugnacious. Lennie squirmed under the look and shifted his feet nervously. Curley stepped...What the hell are you gettin’ into it for?” (25; ch. 2). This quote shows how Curley automatically went to Lennie because he was bigger than he was and said that he needed to answer when he is spoken to. The second time Curley picks on Lennie is when Lennie is in the bunkhouse smiling and laughing about the idea of their little farm. Curley thought that Lennie was laughing at him so he went to Lennie and started to punch him and beat him up. Curley said, “What the hell you laughin’ at?” (62; ch.3). Also, “Curley was balanced and poised. He slashed at Lennie with his left, and then smashed down his nose with a right. Lennie gave a cry of terror.” (63; ch.3). In this case Curley has power over Lennie because he intimidates him and he can do whatever he wants because he is the boss’s son. The powerful play a key role in the book and the theme of