Lennie Small as a Sympathetic Figure

Introduction

The Great Depression and the Dust Bowl of the 1930s were eras marked by economic hardship, displacement, and social upheaval, affecting countless lives across America. During this time, many individuals, desperate for any form of income, became migrant workers, facing not only financial challenges but also societal prejudice and harsh living conditions. John Steinbeck's novel "Of Mice and Men" provides a poignant exploration of these themes through the character of Lennie Small. Through careful characterization and symbolism, Steinbeck crafts Lennie as a deeply sympathetic figure, embodying the struggles and injustices faced by those deemed the "lesser" individuals in society.

This essay will examine how Steinbeck uses Lennie's character to reflect the broader social issues of the time, making him a vessel for empathy and understanding.

Characterization

Steinbeck employs characterization throughout "Of Mice and Men" to illustrate Lennie's innocence and vulnerability, which garner sympathy from the reader. Lennie's mental disability is evident from the early pages, immediately positioning him as an outsider in a world that often lacks compassion for those who are different. His child-like qualities and simple-minded nature, as repeatedly highlighted by other characters, evoke a sense of empathy. For example, Crooks observes, "Jus’ tell Lennie what to do an’ he’ll do it if it don’t take no figuring. He can’t think of nothing to do himself, but he sure can take orders" (Steinbeck 70). This observation underscores Lennie's dependency and inability to navigate a world that is often harsh and unforgiving. The setting of the novel amplifies Lennie's plight, as the Great Depression era was characterized by a lack of understanding and support for individuals with disabilities. Unlike characters like George and Slim, who understand Lennie's nature, others exploit or dismiss him, highlighting the broader societal neglect of the vulnerable.

Symbolism

Steinbeck further uses symbolism to reinforce Lennie's portrayal as a sympathetic character. Lennie's imposing physical stature contrasts sharply with his mental simplicity, serving as a metaphor for his inner innocence. Despite his size, Lennie is not self-sufficient; he relies on George for guidance and survival, much like his puppy depends on him. This relationship symbolizes the dependency of marginalized individuals on those more powerful or capable. Lennie's lament, "You ain’t so little as mice. I didn’t bounce you hard" (Steinbeck 85), illustrates his lack of awareness of his own strength and the consequences of his actions. It parallels the experiences of many during the Great Depression who, despite their best efforts, found themselves at the mercy of circumstances beyond their control. Additionally, George's confession to Slim about playing jokes on Lennie—"Used to play jokes on 'im 'cause he was too dumb to take care of 'imself"—emphasizes the exploitation faced by the most innocent and trusting individuals, reflecting the broader societal tendency to prey on the weak.

Social Commentary

Lennie's character serves as a microcosm of the broader social issues of the Great Depression, representing the marginalized individuals who were often overlooked or mistreated. Despite his hard work and kind nature, Lennie, like many others, is vulnerable to exploitation and abuse within a system that values strength and self-sufficiency above all else. George's lament that "Guys like us, that work on ranches, are the loneliest guys in the world. They ain’t got no family. They don’t belong no place" captures the isolation and lack of belonging experienced by many migrant workers (Steinbeck). This sense of loneliness and alienation is a recurring theme, reflected in the brief friendship between Lennie and Crooks. Both characters are outsiders—Lennie due to his mental disability and Crooks due to his racial identity and physical impairment. Crooks' invitation to Lennie, "Set down," signifies a rare moment of connection between two marginalized individuals who find solace in their shared experiences of exclusion (Steinbeck 70).

Conclusion

In "Of Mice and Men," Steinbeck masterfully uses the character of Lennie to evoke empathy and illuminate the harsh realities faced by those on the fringes of society during the Great Depression. Through characterization and symbolism, Lennie is portrayed not only as a sympathetic figure but as a representation of the struggles of the marginalized. Steinbeck's portrayal of Lennie's innocence and vulnerability serves as a powerful commentary on the need for compassion and understanding in a world that often fails to support those who are different. By exploring Lennie's character, Steinbeck invites readers to reflect on the societal values that define worth and to consider the human cost of economic and social systems that neglect the vulnerable. Through Lennie, Steinbeck reminds us of the enduring importance of empathy and the need to recognize the humanity in all individuals, regardless of their abilities or circumstances.

Did you like this example?

907

38