• As always, use specific examples and page / line references to support your work.

1. How does Steinbeck cultivate the idea of Slim holding supreme respect on the farm? Consider, among other things, his comments on pages 39-41 (38-41)
2. While Slim does hold a position of great respect both on the farm and in the reader’s eyes, there are also some disappointing aspects to his character. Explain, using examples and citing pages.

• Read the exchange between Carlson an Candy starting a third of the way down page 44 (bottom 43) ("damn right he is,"...) to halfway down page 48 (Bottom 47)– (finish before "George followed to the door...")

3. What does this passage tell us about the nature of relationships in this time and place?

4. What theme is Steinbeck exploring in this passage? In what ways is he exploring the theme? Explain clearly, using quotes and examples to support your views.

6. What literary device (s) are at work? Explain.

7. What is the symbolic importance of the letter in the magazine, written by someone who used to work on the ranch?

• Read the passage starting halfway through page 48 (bottom 47) ("George followed to the door...") to almost the bottom of pg. 49 (top 49)(finish before "George shuffled the cards noisily...")

8. How does Steinbeck manage, in less than a page, to make it seem like time stands still? How does he create the tension of the room? Cite specific examples when answering.

9. How does candy become part of the dream of owning a farm?

• Read the passage starting on the bottom pf pg 61 (bottom 60) (starting with "The door opened....") to halfway down page 64 (top 63) ("I didn’t wanta,"Lennie cried.").

10. What does this episode illustrate about Curly?

11. How does it effectively show both sides of Lennie?