The Theme of Friendship in Of Mice and Men: Analyzing the Relationship Between George and Lennie as a Symbol of Loyalty and Mutual Support
In John Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men, the friendship between George and Lennie stands out as a poignant representation of loyalty, mutual support, and the human need for companionship. Set during the Great Depression, the novel focuses on two displaced migrant workers who share a dream of a better life, one built on friendship and collaboration. Their relationship, while marked by contrasting personalities, reflects a deep bond that transcends the hardships they face.
George, the more intelligent and practical of the two, is burdened with the responsibility of taking care of Lennie, who has a disability that makes him physically strong but mentally childlike. Despite this imbalance, George remains fiercely loyal to Lennie, acting as both caretaker and protector. Lennie, in turn, offers George a kind of emotional support and stability that becomes increasingly rare in their harsh world. Their relationship contrasts with the loneliness that other characters experience, particularly on the ranch where isolation is common.
Their friendship symbolizes a rare form of mutual dependence that transcends social expectations of individualism, especially during the Depression era. While many characters in the novel suffer from isolation, George and Lennie’s connection serves as a source of solace and strength. This bond represents an ideal of human connection in a world where most people are left to fend for themselves, often leading to betrayal or abandonment. Their relationship is ultimately tragic, highlighting the difficulty of maintaining such loyalty in a world that is cruel and unforgiving.
Steinbeck’s portrayal of George and Lennie’s friendship serves as a critique of the harsh realities of society. In a time when most individuals are struggling to survive, their friendship becomes not only a symbol of loyalty but also of the need for hope and connection. Their dream of owning land together reflects the ultimate aspiration for independence and security, showing that, even in the bleakest of times, companionship can offer a glimmer of possibility.