Choose one of the following topics for your essay:
1. Analyze the theme, the inevitable failure of the American Dream, in Steinbeck’s novel, Of Mice and Men. Analyze the dream of living off the “fatta of the land” and how it influences the characters in the novel (George, Lennie, Candy, Crooks, or Curley’s wife). What does Steinbeck say about the impossibility of the American Dream through these characters? At the same time, what is the power of the dream, even if it is fruitless? Use direct quotations and specific examples to support your views.
2. Compare and contrast Lennie and George and analyze the relationship between them. How does their relationship form a central theme in the novel? How are they different and similar? What does the "dream" symbolize in their relationship? Did George do the responsible thing at the end of the novel? What does his action show about their relationship? What does losing Lennie do to George? What central themes does Steinbeck develop through their friendship? Use direct quotations and specific examples to support your views.
Pre-writing
Once you have chosen your essay topic, look at the corresponding number below and follow the directions.
1. Before you begin writing, get some of your ideas onto paper. Jot down quick answers to the questions in the writing prompt. Spend a lot of time thinking about how the dream for a better life and its ultimate failure forms a central theme in the novel. You may organize your thoughts in list form or in a cluster (web). Begin looking for quotations and evidence to support your opinions. Write them down. Begin thinking about how to organize your ideas; what should you write about first? Then begin thinking about the best order to present topic. Make an outline and see me for approval or for help.
2. Before you begin writing, get some of your ideas onto paper. Jot down quick answers to the questions in the writing prompt. Spend a lot of time thinking about how Lennie and George’s relationship forms a central theme in the novel. You may organize your thoughts on a double bubble map or a T chart. Begin looking for quotations and evidence to support your opinions. Write them down. Begin thinking about how to organize your ideas; what should you write about first? Then begin thinking about the best order to present topic. Make an outline and see me for approval or for help.