Of Mice And Men Feminist Analysis

“We believe that we invent symbols. The truth is that they invent us; we are their creatures, shaped by their hard, defining edges.” This quote by Gene Wolfe provides insight to the idea of symbolism. Most of the characters in John Steinbeck’s novel, Of Mice and Men, are given metaphorical names. Curley’s wife, Slim, and Candy do not only have representative names, but are also symbols of their own beings during the Great Depression.

Curley’s wife is the epitome of how women were viewed and treated during this severe, economic recession. This is displayed when George and Lennie are first acquainted with her existence in the bunkhouse. After she leaves, Lennie comments on her beauty, and George rejects his opinion by snarling: “‘Bet she’d clear out for twenty bucks’” (Page 32). A woman’s purpose was often abused then shunned at this time (as it may be today as well). Her name itself represents the discrimination she faces, as she is only looked to as “Curley’s wife” and not an individual. It is apparent that she is aware of her position when she says to Lennie while they were

alone in the barn: “‘I tell you I ain’t used to livin’ like this. I could’ve made something of myself.’” (Page 88). She regrets her decision to marry Curley and move to this ranch with him. Others think of her as merely nothing. However, she is not convinced this is her life’s purpose.
Candy’s name represents the way his character is viewed as a sweet old man. The preeminent example of his kind-hearted nature is his reaction to Carlson’s proposal to shoot Candy’s dog in order to put him out of his misery. Candy gives peaceful protest with his words: “‘No I couldn’t do that’”, “‘Maybe it’d hurt him’”, and “‘I don’t mind taking care of him’” (Page 45). His verbal opposition displays his caring sentiment for his long-time companion. Carlson’s violent suggestion is too harsh for Candy. He would rather care for his dog in her old age, rather than be lonely without her. Candy not only has benignant feelings for his own dog, yet he has faith in others he may not know too well. When Curley’s wife is discovered to be dead he says, “‘He’s such a nice fella, I didn’ think he'd do anything like this’” (Page 95). George’s assumption that Lennie killed her is not hard to believe, but something Candy does not want to accept as a reality. He is in disbelief upon finding Curley’s wife unconscious. Candy naturally shows his compassion and faith in others.
Slim’s name narrates his appearance and personality.

“He was a jerkline skinner, the prince of the ranch, capable of driving ten, sixteen, even twenty mules with a single line to the leaders” (Page 33). Slim is in a superior position on the ranch, not only because of his good looks, but also his strength and skill as a worker. He is the “pretty boy” of the ranch. His essence is smooth yet natural. This is revealed after Lennie destroys Curley’s hand in a fight. Slim says to Curley: ”’You got senses in hand enough to listen?’” (Page 64). Slim goes on to convince Curley to not expose Lennie's assault upon him by insisting: “‘I think you got your han’ caught in a machine.’” (Page 64). Slim uses irresistible nature to persuade him with a smile. He knows he is one who others have a hard time saying no to. He also is intelligent enough to easily use Curley’s stubbornness against

him.
John Steinbeck depicts these character's purpose and personalities within their names in the novel Of Mice and Men. He narrates Curley’s wife and her unimportance, Candy with his delightful nature, and Slim’s sliness. Steinbeck teaches a lesson his audience a lesson: Never judge a book by it's cover