Of Mice And Men Crooks Racism

Racism is seen throughout “Of Mice and Men.” One sees how racism has affected Crooks’ mental state in a variety of ways. Crooks is used to being alone and not having anyone to be friends with. He’s discriminated against and treated differently based off his skin color and looks, which is a perfect example of racism. Racism has severely affected Crooks, as you can see, he’s been brainwashed to believe that his opinion doesn’t matter. On page 71, Crooks had let Lennie into his room and crooks began to explain to Lennie that all his life, Crooks had been surrounded by white people and he feels that in society, he’s of no importance. To make matters worse, his back is messed up meaning he couldn’t work well. "This is just a nigger talkin', an' a busted-back nigger . So it don't mean nothing, see?" (4.39). Crooks, not being able to have another person to talk to, is very lonely and keeps to himself for the most part. He knows he is treated differently because of his skin color and because of that nothing he says will have as much …show more content…
Crooks is unable to connect with people and lacks social skills however, he is still looking for a friend. Crooks is in his shed like house and is keeping to himself as usual when Lennie shows up. Since Lennie has the brain of a child, he can’t comprehend the discrimination against Crooks. Ideally for Crooks, he has someone to spill out everything he’s had on his mind so that he won't be lonely. This doesn’t come easy as he denies Lennie at first. “Crooks scowled, but Lennie's disarming smile defeated him. "Come on in and set a while," Crooks said. "'Long as you won't get out and leave me alone, you might as well set down."” His tone was a little more friendly. (4.22). In this quote, it almost sees likes Crooks has gotten so used to being friendless that he doesn’t know how to let someone in. Eventually, I believe Crooks likes the feeling of having a new friend and loosens up a