Themes in John Steinbeck's "Of Mice and Men"

The Climactic Finale of "Of Mice and Men"

The final chapter of John Steinbeck's "Of Mice and Men" returns to the idyllic riverside setting where the novel began, creating a poignant sense of symmetry. Lennie Small, having inadvertently caused the death of Curley's wife, seeks refuge at the prearranged meeting spot by the Salinas River, as George had advised in case of trouble. The peacefulness of nature starkly contrasts with Lennie's inner turmoil as he experiences hallucinations of his Aunt Clara and a giant rabbit, which chastise him and foreshadow his impending doom. These visions highlight Lennie's childlike innocence and his inability to grasp the full impact of his actions.

George Milton's Heartbreaking Choice

When George Milton arrives at the clearing, he is faced with an agonizing decision. Contrary to Lennie's expectations of anger, George is composed, his demeanor reflecting the gravity of the situation. As Lennie eagerly talks of their dream to own a farm and tend rabbits, George instructs him to look across the river and imagine their utopia. In this moment, George performs an act of mercy by shooting Lennie with Carlson's stolen luger, sparing him from a potentially violent end at the hands of the lynch mob. This echoes the earlier mercy killing of Candy's old dog and underscores the novel's exploration of mercy, choice, and the brutal realities of the characters' lives.

The Aftermath and Slim's Compassion

The gunshot that ends Lennie's life quickly brings the search party, including Curley, Carlson, and Slim, to the scene. George concocts a story of self-defense to explain his actions, but it is Slim who understands the true nature of George's decision. Slim's offer of comfort to George, and his gesture of leading him away, signifies a rare moment of empathy in the harsh world they inhabit. The other men, especially Carlson, fail to grasp the significance of the event, further emphasizing the profound disconnect between them and the deep bond shared by George and Lennie.

The Theme of Destiny and Agency

Steinbeck's "Of Mice and Men" consistently examines the theme of control over one's fate, a motif that is revisited in the final chapter. Lennie's inability to control his strength leads to tragic consequences, mirroring past events that necessitated his and George's departure from Weed. George's decision to end Lennie's life poses the question of agency versus destiny, as readers are left to ponder whether George truly had a choice or if the inevitability of their circumstances dictated his actions. The novel challenges its audience to contemplate the nature of freedom and the extent to which individuals can shape their destinies in a world that often seems governed by forces beyond their control.

Reflections on Mercy and the American Dream

The ending of "Of Mice and Men" prompts reflection on the concepts of mercy and the pursuit of the American Dream. The narrative compels readers to consider whether George's killing of Lennie was an act of compassion, saving him from a more cruel fate, or a necessary response to the unforgiving reality of their existence. The dream of owning land, representing autonomy and fulfillment, remains elusive for George and Lennie, mirroring the skepticism of characters like Crooks, who views the dream as unattainable. Steinbeck's story invites its audience to engage with the moral complexities and the poignant aspirations of its characters, leaving the interpretation of their dreams and decisions open to discussion.