A Quote Which Shows Lennie Has A Temper
Introduction
John Steinbeck's novel, "Of Mice and Men," tells the story of two migrant workers, George Milton and Lennie Small, who are seeking employment in California during the Great Depression. Lennie is a big, strong, and mentally disabled man who has a childlike innocence. However, he also has a temper that can be triggered by certain situations. In this article, we will explore a quote that shows Lennie's temper and its implications.
The Quote
The quote that reveals Lennie's temper occurs in Chapter 3 of the novel, when Lennie and his friend, George, are talking to Candy, an old swamper who works on the ranch where they have just arrived. Candy tells them about Curley, the boss's son, who is known for his aggressive behavior and his love for fighting. George warns Lennie to stay away from Curley and to avoid any confrontation with him. However, Lennie responds:
"I don't want no trouble," he said. "Don't let him sock me, George."
"All right, all right," said George. "Keep your voice down. If he hears you yellin' again like that, we're gonna get the can. Now shut up."
The quote shows that Lennie is afraid of Curley and doesn't want to get into trouble. However, it also reveals Lennie's temper, as he raises his voice and uses a threatening tone when he says, "Don't let him sock me, George." This suggests that Lennie is not always in control of his emotions and can become aggressive when he feels threatened or provoked.
The Implications
The quote has several implications for the story and the characters. Firstly, it foreshadows the conflict between Lennie and Curley that will occur later in the novel. Curley is a small man who is jealous of Lennie's size and strength, and he will try to pick a fight with him. Lennie's temper will get the best of him, and he will crush Curley's hand, leading to a tragic outcome for both of them.
Secondly, the quote shows the dynamic between George and Lennie, and how George tries to control Lennie's behavior and protect him from harm. George is aware of Lennie's temper and knows that he needs to be careful around other people. He also knows that if Lennie gets into trouble, they will both lose their jobs and their dream of owning their own farm will be shattered.
Finally, the quote highlights the theme of powerlessness and vulnerability that runs throughout the novel. Lennie and George are powerless and at the mercy of their employers, who treat them like disposable labor. They have no control over their lives and are constantly on the move, looking for work and a place to belong. Lennie's temper is a manifestation of his frustration and his inability to assert himself in a hostile world.
Conclusion
The quote that shows Lennie's temper is a key moment in "Of Mice and Men" that reveals a lot about the character and the themes of the novel. It shows that Lennie is not just a gentle giant, but also a complex and flawed human being who struggles with his emotions. It also shows how George tries to protect him and how the two men are trapped in a world that doesn't value their humanity. Overall, the quote is a powerful reminder of the fragility of the human condition and the importance of empathy and compassion.