Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck - Chapter One

Setting Description

• Location: South of Soledad, Salinas River.
• Landscape Details:
  • River: Warm, deep, and green, slips over yellow sands.
  • Hillside: Golden foothills with strong rockies, cattle in mountains.
  • Valley: Water lined with willows and sycamores.
  • Wildlife: Lizards, rabbits, raccoons, dogs, and deer.

Human Activity

• Path: Beaten by boys and tramps.
• Ash Pile: Evidence of many fires.
• Sycamore Limb: Smoothed by men sitting.

Characters Introduction

• George: Small, quick, dark-faced, restless eyes, sharp features, wears denim trousers and coat, black hat.
• Lennie: Large, shapeless face, large pale eyes, wide shoulders, walks heavily, mimics George.

Key Events

• Arrival at Green Pool:
  • George stops; Lennie drinks heavily.
  • George warns Lennie about drinking too much water.
  • George drinks cautiously.
• Conversation:
  • George complains about the bus driver.
  • George gets frustrated with Lennie's forgetfulness.
  • Lennie only remembers rabbits.
  • George explains the new job plan and rules about Lennie staying silent.
• Mouse Incident:
  • George discovers Lennie has a dead mouse.
  • Lennie enjoys petting it; George throws it away.

Themes

• Dependency:
  • George feels burdened but responsible for Lennie.
  • Lennie depends on George's instructions.
• Dreams & Plans:
  • George and Lennie's dream of owning a farm and tending rabbits.
  • Represents hope and stability.
• Isolation:
  • Contrast between men like George and Lennie and the lonelier ranch workers.

Important Dialogue

• George's Anger: Frustration over lost jobs and troubles caused by Lennie.
• Dream Recitation:
  • George repeats their future plans for Lennie’s comfort.
  • Emphasizes their bond and shared dream.
• Trust & Assurance:
  • George ensures Lennie will be quiet during job interview.
  • Lennie repeats he won't say anything.

Conclusion of Chapter

• Preparation for the Night:
  • George and Lennie set up to sleep by the pool.
  • George agrees to recount their dream one more time before they sleep.