Lennie Small: the Gentle Giant’s Tragic Fate in ‘Of Mice and Men’

In John Steinbeck’s iconic novella, “Of Mice and Men,” Lennie Small emerges as a character whose innocence, strength, and vulnerability converge to evoke both sympathy and contemplation. Through Lennie, Steinbeck delves into the complexities of human relationships, societal expectations, and the harsh realities of the American Dream during the Great Depression. Lennie’s characterization serves not just as a mere narrative tool, but as a powerful commentary on society’s treatment of those deemed ‘different.’

From the outset, Lennie’s physical stature is juxtaposed with his childlike demeanor.

He’s a man of immense strength, yet he harbors a simple and naive worldview, often fixating on the dream of owning a piece of land with his companion, George, and tending to “the rabbits.” This recurring motif of Lennie wanting to pet soft things, whether it’s a mouse, puppy, or rabbit, underscores his innate desire for comfort, security, and connection. However, his strength and lack of understanding often result in unintentional harm, making him a tragic figure, unable to control or comprehend the implications of his actions.

Lennie’s relationship with George is central to the narrative. George acts as Lennie’s protector, guide, and confidant. While some might interpret George’s exasperation with Lennie as impatience or cruelty, it’s a nuanced portrayal of the burdens and strains of caregiving. Despite the challenges, George remains loyal, understanding that Lennie’s actions are never malevolent but simply the result of not knowing his own strength or understanding societal norms.

Steinbeck’s portrayal of Lennie taps into broader societal themes. In the setting of the Great Depression, where every individual is grappling with survival and the relentless pursuit of the elusive American Dream, Lennie embodies those who are left behind. His cognitive challenges make him reliant on others, and in a society where the fittest survive, Lennie represents vulnerability. Through his interactions with other characters—be it the mistrust from Curley or the camaraderie with Candy and Crooks—Lennie’s presence exposes the prejudices, insecurities, and aspirations of those around him.

The tragic culmination of Lennie’s story—his accidental killing of Curley’s wife followed by his own death at the hands of George—forces readers to confront uncomfortable questions. Was George’s decision an act of mercy, sparing Lennie from a more brutal end by an enraged mob? Or was it a desperate move to free both of them from an unending cycle of hope and despair? Steinbeck doesn’t provide clear answers, allowing readers to grapple with these moral ambiguities.

In conclusion, Lennie Small is not just a character in a novella; he is a reflection of society’s paradoxical nature. While he yearns for connection, he is isolated because of his differences. His strength, instead of being an asset, becomes his greatest liability. Through Lennie, Steinbeck masterfully portrays the fragility of dreams and the complexities of human relationships in a world that often remains indifferent to individual suffering. Lennie’s tragic fate serves as a poignant reminder of the cost of misunderstanding and the innate human need for compassion, understanding, and connection.

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