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Introduction to "Of Mice and Men"

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Chapter 1 of 'Of Mice and Men' sets the stage for the novella, introducing George and Lennie, two laborers dreaming of owning land during the Great Depression. Their interdependent relationship and the challenges they face, including Lennie's mental challenges and the consequences of his actions, are central to the narrative. The chapter foreshadows the hardships and themes of destiny, control, and the fragility of dreams that will unfold.

Setting the Scene in "Of Mice and Men" Chapter 1

John Steinbeck's "Of Mice and Men" begins with the introduction of the two main characters, George Milton and Lennie Small, against the backdrop of the Salinas River valley, south of Soledad, California. The time is the Great Depression, a period of economic hardship in the United States. George is portrayed as a quick-witted, diminutive man with a sense of responsibility, while Lennie is a physically imposing but mentally challenged individual with a fondness for soft things. Their relationship is one of companionship and mutual dependence, with George providing guidance and oversight for Lennie, who is often unaware of his own strength and the implications of his actions.
Two men in denim and flannel walk towards a 1930s ranch with hay bales, a wooden barn, a vintage truck, horses, and a sunset sky.

Aspirations Amidst Adversity

The protagonists' conversation reveals their shared dream of owning a piece of land, symbolizing their quest for autonomy and stability, a sharp contrast to their current existence as transient workers. The narrative exposes the grim realities of their nomadic lifestyle, marked by fleeting employment and the necessity to flee from one town to another due to Lennie's innocuous but troublesome behavior. A past incident in Weed, where Lennie's innocent fascination with a woman's dress led to an accusation of assault, exemplifies the fragility of their situation and foreshadows the difficulties that lie ahead.

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Setting of 'Of Mice and Men'

Salinas River valley, south of Soledad, California during the Great Depression.

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Primary theme in 'Of Mice and Men'

Companionship and mutual dependence, exemplified by George and Lennie's relationship.

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Lennie's unique trait

Mentally challenged with a love for soft things, unaware of his own strength.

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