From Conflict to Identity: Main Issues Explored in US Literary Education - Sykalo Eugen 2023

What is the role of the American Dream in John Steinbeck's “Of Mice and Men”?

John Steinbeck's novella, "Of Mice and Men," delves into the intricate tapestry of the American Dream, revealing the complexities and inherent contradictions that underlie this quintessential notion of success and prosperity. Set against the backdrop of the Great Depression, the story follows the poignant journey of two displaced ranch workers, George Milton and Lennie Small, as they navigate a world where dreams are both a source of solace and a catalyst for tragedy.

In "Of Mice and Men," the American Dream takes on different forms for each character, reflecting their individual hopes, desires, and limitations. George and Lennie, bound by their unwavering friendship, share a common dream of owning their own piece of land, where they can live independently, free from the hardships and transience of their itinerant lives. This dream, nurtured through their shared vision and mutual support, becomes a beacon of hope amidst the harsh realities of their existence.

For George, the American Dream represents independence, self-sufficiency, and the ability to shape his own destiny. He envisions a life where he can work for himself, make his own decisions, and provide for his own needs. The dream offers him a sense of purpose and the opportunity to rise above the limitations imposed by societal circumstances. It becomes a source of motivation, driving him to work tirelessly and make sacrifices in pursuit of a better future.

Lennie, on the other hand, perceives the American Dream through a lens of childlike innocence and yearning for security. He shares in the dream with unbridled enthusiasm, envisioning a place where he can tend to rabbits and live in harmony with nature. For Lennie, the dream represents a sanctuary from the harsh realities of a world that often misunderstands and mistreats him. It symbolizes a haven where he can find acceptance and belonging.

Steinbeck skillfully explores the fragility of the American Dream, juxtaposing it with the harsh realities of a society plagued by economic hardship and social injustice. The ranch workers, epitomizing the marginalized and disenfranchised, reveal the inherent challenges and limitations that obstruct the realization of their dreams. The dream of owning a piece of land, once seen as a tangible possibility, becomes increasingly elusive in the face of economic instability and the exploitative nature of the capitalist system.

Through the character of Crooks, the isolated African-American stable hand, Steinbeck exposes the racial barriers that further complicate the attainment of the American Dream. Crooks, confined to the margins of society by virtue of his race, is keenly aware of the limitations imposed upon him. His dream of companionship and belonging is stifled by the pervasive racism and discrimination of the time. Steinbeck highlights the systemic injustices that perpetuate inequality, underscoring the notion that the American Dream is not equally accessible to all.

Symbolism, as a powerful literary device, plays a significant role in highlighting the themes of the American Dream in "Of Mice and Men." The recurring image of the rabbits, representing George and Lennie's shared dream, becomes a symbol of the hope and fragility of their aspirations. The dream, like the rabbits, is both a source of comfort and vulnerability. Its realization depends on external factors, beyond the control of the characters, emphasizing the transient nature of dreams and the influence of circumstances.

"Of Mice and Men" offers a sobering exploration of the American Dream, challenging the notion of universal attainment and exposing the barriers that obstruct its realization. Steinbeck underscores the inherent injustices and limitations imposed by a society plagued by economic hardship, social hierarchies, and systemic prejudice. The novella serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities and inequalities that permeate the pursuit of the American Dream, provoking reflection on the role of empathy, compassion, and social responsibility in fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.