Responsive Essay
The American Dream it dreamt by many yet only achieved by few. From Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck the American Dream of being independent, having companionship, and being worth something in society is clearly evident. Throughout the novel George Milton has the dream of owning a plot of land with his partner Lennie Small. Curleys Wife has the dream of becoming a movie star. In Steinbecks Of Mice and Men the characterization of George and Curleys Wife reveals the impossibility of The American Dream during this time period.
Georges characteristics hinder him from achieving his dream of owning land, with a house, and crops with Lennie. In the novel George states Course Lennies a God damn nuisance most of the time. This proves that sometimes George gets annoyed with Lennie and their friendship may not last. Also if they do not stay together neither of them will be able to achieve their dreams since they include each other. George also says I aint got no people. This proves that if he were to try and achieve his dream it would be especially hard because he would have no help getting started or even finding land. Also its always good to have friends, so if George were to ever get in trouble or need help he could have someone to back him up. George finally hinders his dreams by shooting Lennie. The reader never learns if George accomplishes his goal, however they can assume that since Georges dream included Lennie it will never be fulfilled. Also George no longer has a companion, part of The American Dream. George seems to have his American Dream all figured out with a plan yet complicated situations arise and it seems to slip through his fingers. The American Dream does not only have to involve owning property, it could even involve becoming a movie star.
Curleys Wifes characteristics hinder her from achieving her dream of becoming a movie star and independent of Curley. Curleys Wife says Think Im gonna stay in the two-by-four house and listen to how Curleys gonna lead with his left twict, and then bring in the ol right cross? This proves that Curleys Wife does not enjoy being married to Curley and being around him al the time. Also she has a dream of being independent from him, but this is very hard because she is always with him. Curleys Wife also says I tell ya I could of went with the shows. Not jus one, neither. An a guy tol me he could put me in pitchers. This proves that Curleys Wife is frustrated she didnt go with the shows and she would be much happier there. She dreams of having fans and getting her picture taken, but instead she is held down by Curley. Also this proves Curleys Wife want to do her own thing and not have to depend on Curley. Curleys Wife also shows that her dreams are hindered by saying Whas the matter with me? Aint I got a right to talk to nobody? Whatta they think I am, anyways? This proves that Curleys Wife has no support from anyone and no one encouraging her to achieve her dreams. No one ever talks to her. Also this proves she is treated with little respect and will never be independent from Curly. Though dreaming of becoming a star since childhood Curleys Wife is stuck on a ranch with a husband she doesnt care for and no one to encourage her to pursue her dreams.
In Steinbecks Of Mice and Men the impossibility of the American Dream is revealed through George Miltons and Curleys Wifes characterization. George dreams of owning land with crops and a house, however s nuisance partner, no friends to back him up, and the eventual death of Lennie inevitably end his dream. Curleys Wifes dream of becoming a movie star and independent from Curley are hindered by no motivation, no respect, and a very unhappy relationship with Curley. Whether dreaming of owning property or becoming a movie star the American Dream affects everyone, but while some succeed others are left to only imagine what could have been.
Word count: 697 words
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