Of Mice and Men

Chapter 1

  1. Where and when does this story take place? What evidence provides this information?
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  2. Go online and research the life and times of John Steinbeck. How does this information contribute to the appreciation of this work?
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  3. Research the social climate of the United States (and California in particular) during the 1930s. How does this information contribute to the appreciation of the work?
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  4. Read the first paragraph where we are introduced George and Lennie ("They had walked single file down the path…"). Without even "meeting" them, Steinbeck has skilfully summed the two men up. What precise choices of language have defined these men before we even meet them?
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  5. Look at the first dialogue spoken by either of the two men. Immediately, Steinbeck has defined an unbalanced relationship where one is superior to the other. How?
  6. George refers to Lennie as a "crazy bastard" on numerous occasions. "Crazy" is a term that has many connotations in our society. Explain your interpretation of Lennie’s situation, citing examples (and pg references) to support your answers.
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  7. George often uses very harsh tones with Lennie, but it becomes apparent that he is not truly malicious toward Lennie. Cite episodes and examples that prove this.
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  8. Why does Lennie offer to run off and live in the hills?
  9. What is the importance of George and Lennie’s goal of getting their own place and "live off the fatta the land"?
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