Of mice and Men - Lennie

Question 1

Lennie – Theme: Neurodiversity/Disability, Social Norms & Prejudice – Quotes

Answer 1

1. “No he ain’t bright, but he’s sure as hell of a good worker. Strong as a bull.”
2. “An’ s’pose they lock him up an’ strap him up in a cage.”
3. Curley’s wife laughed at him: “You’re nuts,” she said. “But you’re a kinda nice fella. Jus’ like a big baby. I like to pet nice things with my fingers, sof’ things.”

Question 2

Lennie – Theme: Neurodiversity/Disability, Social Norms & Prejudice – Context

Answer 2

These lines expose how society views Lennie—not for his strength but through the lens of his mental challenges. Ableist language and comments (even from those close to him) underscore the prejudice that isolates him and reduces him to a simplistic stereotype.

Question 3

Lennie – Theme: Companionship – Quotes

Answer 3

1. “I wisht I could put you in a cage”
2. “George wun’t go away and leave me. I know George wun’t do that.”
3. “Lennie broke in.” “Go on now George!”

The third quote captures a moment that reveals the childlike dynamic between him and George.

Question 4

Lennie – Theme: Companionship – Context

Answer 4

Lennie’s deep need for companionship is evident in his reliance on George. Their relationship, almost akin to a child seeking a parent’s guidance, offers a rare glimpse of genuine care amid an otherwise isolated world.

Question 5

Lennie – Theme: American Dream – Quotes

Answer 5

1. “I wish’t we’d get the rabbits pretty soon”
2. “I wouldn’t eat none, George. I’d leave it all for you.”
3. (No third quote provided.)

Question 6

Lennie – Theme: American Dream – Context

Answer 6

For Lennie the American Dream is simplified to the comfort of caring for soft, tangible things—like rabbits—and the security of his relationship with George. His vision is raw and direct, free of the complicating doubts that trouble others.