Topic > Ranch Workers in 'Of Mice and Men': How George and Lennie Are Different

John Steinbeck's novel "Of Mice and Men" provides a poignant portrait of the lives of ranch workers during the Great Depression. The characters, their dreams, and the harsh realities they face offer a window into the struggles and challenges of the time. Among these characters, George and Lennie stand out as unique. This essay will explore how George and Lennie differ from other ranch workers in terms of their relationships, dreams, and mental abilities, ultimately highlighting their quirks and the impact they have on the narrative. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay One thing that sets George and Lennie apart from their fellow ranch workers is their strong bond and companionship. Unlike the other men who are often isolated and alone, George and Lennie have each other's support and companionship. As George himself says, "Those like us, who work on ranches, are the loneliest in the world. They have no family. They belong nowhere" (Steinbeck 15). This stark contrast highlights the rarity of their relationship. Additionally, George takes on the role of caretaker for Lennie, who is mentally disabled. While the other ranch workers focus solely on their own well-being, George selflessly cares for Lennie, providing him with guidance and protection. This responsibility sets George and Lennie apart, as they demonstrate a level of compassion and empathy not commonly seen among other characters. Another way George and Lennie differ from the other ranch workers is in their shared dream of owning their own land. . While most of the men on the ranch are resigned to their current lives and have no aspirations beyond their next paycheck, George and Lennie harbor powerful dreams of having a place of their own. This dream gives them hope and motivates them to work for a better future. Their dream is beautifully summed up by George when he says, “Someday, we'll get the jack together and have a little house and a couple of acres, a cow and some pigs” (Steinbeck 15). This dream not only differentiates George and Lennie from the other workers on the ranch, but also serves as a symbol of their determination and resilience in the face of adversity. Perhaps the most obvious difference between George, Lennie, and the other ranch workers lies in their mental abilities. . Lennie's cognitive impairment sets him apart from the rest of the characters, making him vulnerable and dependent on George. This distinction becomes evident in the way Lennie is treated by others, who often mock and belittle him. However, George's unwavering loyalty to Lennie and his willingness to protect and defend him further highlight their uniqueness. Despite the challenges that Lennie's mental disability presents, George remains steadfast in his commitment to their friendship, demonstrating a level of compassion and understanding rare among other ranch workers. Conclusion In “Of Mice and Men,” George and Lennie stand out from the competition. other ranch workers for their exceptional relationship, shared dream and distinct mental abilities. Their bond and companionship provide them with a support system that is missing in the lives of the other characters. Furthermore, the dream of owning their own land sets them apart, giving them hope and motivation. Finally, Lennie's mental disability and George's unwavering loyalty to him make them unique, highlighting their compassion and understanding. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay Overall, the differences between George and Lennie and the other ranch workers contribute.