Discover the Animal Comparison to Lennie in Of Mice and Men - A Fascinating Insight
When reading Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men, it is evident that Lennie is often compared to an animal. But, what animal is Lennie compared to, and why?
At first glance, the answer may seem obvious: a bear. After all, Lennie has the strength and size of a bear, as well as the tendency to maul things when he gets too excited. But, there are actually several animals that Lennie can be compared to.
One of the most common animals that Lennie is compared to is a puppy. This comparison is made because of Lennie's childlike innocence and his desire for attention and affection. Just like a puppy, Lennie wants nothing more than to please his master and play with those he loves.
Another animal that Lennie can be compared to is a mouse. The irony of this comparison is not lost on readers, as Lennie is known for accidentally killing mice in the novel. However, just like a mouse, Lennie is meek and vulnerable, relying on his friend George for protection and guidance.
One animal that some readers may not immediately think of when considering Lennie's character is a horse. However, Lennie's strength and stamina make him a prime candidate for this comparison. Lennie is often described as bull-strong and has no trouble lifting and carrying heavy objects. Like a horse, Lennie is valuable for his physical capabilities.
Overall, the animal that Lennie is most commonly compared to is a bear. But, it is important to note that there are several other animals that can be used to describe Lennie's character. Regardless of which animal you choose, the comparisons all point to one fact: Lennie is a complex character with both innocent and dangerous tendencies.
So why does Steinbeck use animal comparisons to describe Lennie? One reason could be to further emphasize the themes of loneliness and isolation present in the novel. By comparing Lennie to an animal, Steinbeck is highlighting the fact that Lennie is seen as different and separate from the other characters.
Another reason could be to comment on the nature of humanity itself. By portraying Lennie as an animal, Steinbeck is suggesting that humans are not so different from animals after all - we all have our strengths, weaknesses, and primal instincts that we cannot always control.
Regardless of the reason, the animal comparisons used to describe Lennie are a powerful tool in Steinbeck's writing. They add depth to his character and provide insight into the complex themes of the novel.
In conclusion, Lennie can be compared to several different animals, each with their own unique qualities and characteristics. From puppies to mice to horses, each comparison sheds light on a different aspect of Lennie's personality. By using these comparisons, Steinbeck is able to further develop his characters and themes, making Of Mice and Men a literary masterpiece that continues to resonate with readers today.
"What Animal Is Lennie Compared To" ~ bbaz
John Steinbeck's classic novel Of Mice and Men has been read by millions of people across the globe. The book explores the relationship between two migrant workers in California during the Great Depression era. Lennie Small, one of the main characters, is often compared to an animal throughout the book. In this article, we will examine the different ways Lennie is related to various animals.
The Mouse
At the beginning of the novel, George Milton, Lennie’s friend, tells Lennie that he shouldn’t touch anything because you always kill things. He further adds that Lennie is like a mouse because he gets into trouble without intending to.
You just don't know how to handle it, George says. Like a little kid. Well, you ain't gonna do no bad things like you done in Weed, neither –
This reference to the mouse highlights Lennie's innocence and lack of awareness of how his actions can cause harm unintentionally. The comparison also shows how George feels responsible for Lennie's actions.
The Horse
Steinbeck continues the motif of animals to describe Lennie's physical strength. George compares him to a horse when they talk about their dream of owning a farm one day:
Guys like us, that work on ranches, are the loneliest guys in the world. They got no family. They don't belong no place. . . . With us it ain't like that. We got a future. We got somebody to talk to that gives a damn about us. We don't have to sit in no bar room blowin' in our jack jus' because we got no place else to go. If them other guys gets in jail they can rot for all anybody gives a damn. But not us.
An' why? Because ... because I got you to look after me, and you got me to look after you, and that's why.
The horse, like Lennie, is strong, physically powerful, and unaware of its strength's potential danger. Steinbeck uses it to emphasize the building dramatic tension, i.e., how long Lennie will be able to control his power before something terrible happens.
The Dog
Later in the novel, while Lennie is petting his new puppy, he accidentally kills it. This incident exhibits the overarching theme of Lennie's actions having unintentional severe consequences.
Furthermore, Lennie's love and tenderness toward animals relate him to an innocent, defenseless creature. The opposite of what he really is, which is a massive, powerful, intimidating man.
The Bear
When Lennie's strength becomes overwhelming, George tells him: Jesus Christ! He's like a bear! Just like a bear! The comparison shows Lennie's primal and wild power. It highlights the unpredictability and damaging effects of his enormous strength.
The Rabbit
A recurring image in the story is Lennie's dream of tending rabbits on the ranch. In his imagination, he sees himself petting and taking care of different colored rabbits. The rabbits symbolize the innocence and purity Lennie seeks but can't maintain in his real life due to his uncontrolled strength.
Lennie’s obsession with rabbits is evidence that he's fond of smaller, gentler creatures. However, it also demonstrates his cruelty when he accidentally killed things he loves.
The Bull/Cow
When Lennie is being hunted for an accidental murder, Steinbeck describes him as lumbering like a bear, leaving deep footprints in the grass.
Simultaneously, Lennie's childlike nature is emphasized when George tells him to look eastward and hide in the brush until I come for you. Lennie obeys but frequently questions George, reminding him of a clingy cow.
In Conclusion:
Throughout Of Mice and Men, various animal images represent the different facets of Lennie's character. He is like a mouse both innocent and destructive. Like a horse, he is powerful but unaware of his capabilities. His love for animals connects him with creatures that are innocent and defenseless, like puppies and rabbits.
Simultaneously, Lennie's overwhelming strength is often compared to bears or bulls. The animal-related motifs add dramatic tension to the story, making the reader wonder what will happen when Lennie loses control.
Ultimately, Steinbeck uses these animal comparisons to explore how people can be complex, multi-dimensional characters that contain several opposing traits.
What Animal Is Lennie Compared To?
Introduction
In John Steinbeck's famous novel Of Mice and Men, Lennie Small is often compared to various animals, particularly mice and rabbits. These comparisons are crucial to understanding Lennie's character and his relationship with the other characters in the book.The Comparison to Mice
Lennie is first compared to mice in the very beginning of the book when George scolds him for carrying around a dead mouse in his pocket. George asks Lennie why he likes to pet mice so much, and Lennie replies that he likes to stroke their soft fur.This comparison to a mouse is significant because it emphasizes Lennie's innocence and childlike nature. Just like mice are small and vulnerable creatures, Lennie is naive and easily manipulated by others.The Comparison to Rabbits
Later in the book, Lennie's obsession with rabbits becomes a recurring theme. He constantly talks about wanting to tend to rabbits on a farm of his own someday. Just like with the mice, this comparison highlights Lennie's innocence and simple-mindedness.However, the metaphor of rabbits also implies a sense of danger. Rabbits are prey animals, and Lennie's size and strength make him capable of accidentally hurting things he loves. This idea is foreshadowed in the opening scene when George takes the dead mouse away from Lennie.Physical Characteristics Compared to Animals
Aside from his innocent nature, Lennie is also compared to animals based on his physical characteristics. For instance, his hands are described as paws, and his face is called shapeless.These descriptions make Lennie seem more like an animal than a human being, emphasizing his lack of intelligence and refinement. However, they also create sympathy for him since he cannot help the way he looks or acts.The Dichotomy of Lennie's Nature
One interesting aspect of the animal comparisons is how they highlight both the positive and negative aspects of Lennie's character. On one hand, he is innocent and childlike, just like mice and rabbits. He is also loyal and kind-hearted, eager to make friends and help others.On the other hand, Lennie is also temperamental and unpredictable, just like a wild animal. He has a dangerous amount of strength and can easily hurt someone without meaning to. This creates a sense of tension throughout the book as the other characters try to keep Lennie under control.Comparison to Other Characters
Another way the animal comparisons function in the book is by illuminating the differences between Lennie and the other characters. For example, George is often compared to a bull terrier, which suggests that he is strong and aggressive. This contrasts with Lennie's more passive and gentle nature.Likewise, Curley is compared to a cock, which implies that he is arrogant and aggressive. This contrasts with Lennie's simple-mindedness and lack of ambition.The Significance of the Comparisons
Overall, the animal comparisons serve a few different purposes in Of Mice and Men. First, they create sympathy for Lennie and emphasize his innocence and childlike nature. Second, they highlight the danger that Lennie poses to himself and others. Finally, they illuminate the differences between Lennie and the other characters in the book.Table Comparison: Lennie and Animals
To summarize the various animal comparisons made in Of Mice and Men, here is a table comparing Lennie to different animals:Animal | Characteristics Compared to Lennie-------|-----------------------------------Mouse | Innocent, naive, vulnerableRabbit | Innocent, simple-minded, dangerousPaw | Large, powerful, clumsyFace | Shapeless, lacking refinementWild animal | Unpredictable, dangerous, strongConclusion
The animal comparisons in Of Mice and Men provide valuable insight into Lennie's character and the overall themes of the book. By emphasizing his innocence and simplicity, as well as his potential for danger, Steinbeck creates a complex and sympathetic character that is both endearing and tragic.What Animal is Lennie Compared To?
Introduction
In John Steinbeck's classic novel, Of Mice and Men, one of the central characters, Lennie Small, is often compared to various animals. This comparison provides readers with a deeper insight into Lennie's personality and behavior. In this article, we will explore the different animals that Lennie is compared to and what it reveals about his character.The Mouse
The first animal that Lennie is compared to is a mouse. George, Lennie's friend, affectionately calls him a poor bastard who is always getting into trouble. He compares Lennie to a mouse because, like the small rodent, Lennie is gentle and harmless. However, he is also unaware of his own strength, which often leads to accidentally hurting others.The Rabbit
Another animal that Lennie is compared to in the novel is a rabbit. This comparison is made when Lennie is being scolded by George for petting a dead mouse too hard. George tells Lennie that he will never get to tend the rabbits they hope to own if he keeps hurting things. Lennie's obsession with tending rabbits shows his desire for something soft and gentle that he can care for.The Bear
Despite Lennie's gentle nature, he is also incredibly strong. This power is likened to that of a bear when he is first introduced in the novel. George states that Lennie could tote that hay all day without getting tired, and it is clear that Lennie's physical strength is impressive.The Puppy
As the story progresses, Lennie is given a new responsibility- caring for a puppy. However, Lennie's desire to pet soft things unsurprisingly leads to the puppy's death. This event further highlights Lennie's innocence and his inability to understand the consequences of his actions.The Horse
When Lennie is accused of assaulting Curley's wife in the novel, he becomes terrified of getting in trouble. George reassures him that he means no harm and compares him to a horse that don't want to hurt nobody. This comparison highlights Lennie's good intentions, despite the unintentional harm he causes.The Bull
Another comparison made in the novel is between Lennie and a bull. During the confrontation with Curley, Lennie becomes enraged and uses his strength to defend himself against his aggressor. The image of a raging bull helps to emphasize how primal Lennie's actions are in these moments.The Sheep
Finally, Lennie's childlike nature is once again highlighted when he is described as being like a sheep. Lennie's dependence on George and his tendency to mimic his friend's words and actions is reminiscent of a sheep following its herd.Conclusion
Overall, the comparisons made between Lennie and various animals provide readers with a deeper understanding of his character. Through these descriptions, we see Lennie's innocence, his immense physical strength, and his dependence on others. Despite his flaws, Lennie is ultimately a sympathetic character whose tragic fate leaves a lasting impression on readers.What Animal Is Lennie Compared To?
Throughout John Steinbeck's novel, Of Mice and Men, one of the main characters, Lennie, is often compared to different animals. Steinbeck uses these comparisons to illustrate Lennie's personality, behavior, and mental state. In this article, we will explore what animal Lennie is frequently compared to and why the author chose to do so.
From the beginning of the story, Lennie is described as a large, strong man with limited mental capacity. He is also depicted as having a childlike innocence and curiosity, often getting into trouble because he does not understand the consequences of his actions. These traits make it clear that Lennie is not like an average human being, leading Steinbeck to compare him to different animals throughout the story.
The first animal that Lennie is compared to is a bear. This comparison is made by the character Candy, who describes Lennie's powerful physique and massive strength. That big bastard can put up more grain alone than most pairs can, Candy says. He ain't no cuckoo. He's a bear. This comparison emphasizes Lennie's physical capabilities and suggests that he could be dangerous if provoked.
Lennie is also compared to a puppy several times throughout the novel. This comparison is made by George, the other main character, who takes care of Lennie and treats him like a pet. George tells Lennie, You jus' sit in the same place an' don't move. An' don't get in no trouble. You do that and I won't get mad. This statement reinforces the idea that Lennie is like a loyal dog who needs to be trained and taken care of.
Another animal that Lennie is compared to towards the end of the story is a mouse. This comparison is significant because it not only reinforces Lennie's childlike innocence but also foreshadows the tragic ending of the novel. George tells Lennie, I ain't mad. I never been mad, an' I ain't now. That's a thing I want ya to know. He then proceeds to tell Lennie a story about how he used to play tricks on him when they were younger by giving him dead mice to pet. This comparison emphasizes Lennie's innocence and reinforces the idea that he needs to be protected and taken care of, just like a small animal.
It is also worth noting that Lennie's mental state is reflected in the animals he is compared to. For example, the bear comparison emphasizes Lennie's physical strength and potential danger, while the puppy and mouse comparisons emphasize his childlike innocence and vulnerability. These comparisons suggest that Lennie is not fully aware of the consequences of his actions and cannot protect himself or others.
In conclusion, John Steinbeck's use of animal imagery in Of Mice and Men serves to illustrate Lennie's personality, behavior, and mental state. By comparing Lennie to a bear, a puppy, and a mouse, Steinbeck emphasizes his physical capabilities, need for care and attention, and childlike innocence. These comparisons also foreshadow the tragic ending of the story and suggest that Lennie's limited mental capacity makes him unable to fully understand his actions.
Thank you for reading this article about what animal Lennie is compared to. We hope that it has provided some insight into the character and themes of Of Mice and Men.
What Animal Is Lennie Compared To?
Introduction
Lennie is a character in John Steinbeck's novel Of Mice and Men. He is often compared to animals because of his physical strength, his childlike behavior, and his love for soft things. Many people have asked what animal Lennie is compared to, and this article aims to answer that question.
The Comparison
There are several animals that Lennie is compared to in the novel:
- Bear: Lennie is often referred to as a bear because of his immense strength. In one scene, he drags a dead puppy away from the rest of the group, much like a bear would do with its prey.
- Horse: George, Lennie's friend and caretaker, describes Lennie as a horse in the way he works hard and is strong enough to pull a plow. However, he is also easily spooked and doesn't always understand what is going on around him.
- Puppy: Although not exactly an animal Lennie is compared to, his treatment of a puppy shows his childlike innocence and his desire to hold and pet soft things.
Conclusion
In Of Mice and Men, Lennie is often compared to several different animals. Some of these comparisons highlight his strength and power, while others show his childlike innocence and desire for soft things. Regardless of which animal he is compared to, it is clear that Lennie struggles to understand the world around him and is often misunderstood by those who interact with him.