Use Of Imagery In John Steinbeck's Of Mice And Men

To be one’s protector, one must be capable of both mental and physical strength, and yet to be protected, one must have the same. Moreover, in John Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men, the companionship of the two main characters represents not only the complications of an unconventional dynamic, but a much deeper message. With creation of realistic characters and use of description to effectively create an atmosphere allows readers to delve into the austere truth of the Great Depression. Hence, Steinbeck’s use of characterization and imagery helps set the overarching theme of being one’s brother’s keeper in harsh realities. Firstly, characterization of the two main personas: the strong protector, and the protected weak creates a memorable bond that is tested from the beginning of

As the characters are first introduced, the dynamic between the two main characters is odd and remarkable, and sets the theme and conflict. In particular, the narrator states that as they walked together, even in the open Lennie stayed behind George, illustrating Lennie’s subconscious tendency to follow George without thinking. Moreover, Lennie is impressionable and relies on George, which further legitimizes George’s responsibility for both his wellbeing and Lennie’s, and also notions the importance that the two remain together, as Lennie may not be able to fend for himself without George. Aside from their size, George is depicted with strong features, while Lennie is illustrated as intellectually inferior and innocent, which is of great importance to the conflict. Likewise, George is small and quick and defined, while Lennie is his opposite, a huge man, shapeless of face, contrasting the notion of strength mentally versus physically. Although George is the leader in their relationship, he does not have the strength to be a capable protector of