Use Of Power In John Steinbeck's Of Mice And Men

Power can be perceived differently by all individuals. The majority of the time power is seen as an obstacle that can delay the progress of one’s success. But power can also be viewed more optimistically. People often abuse power over individuals in negative ways, but it can also be used for the benefit of others. In the novel, Of Mice and Men, John Steinbeck presents occasions that are caused or affected by a character's use of power. George, Curley, and Curley’s wife all exercise power over others on the ranch for different purposes. Curley and his wife use it to benefit themselves while George uses it to benefit Lennie. Because power can often have a significant impact on individuals, Steinbeck provides elements of characterization, dialogue, …show more content…
Lennie is as developmentally disabled, and this is seen through his childish persona. He often lacks the ability to determine right from wrong, which is why Lennie sees George as an impactful leader. When the two arrive at the pool of water at the beginning of the novella, Lennie drinks too fast. George, knowing this was an irresponsible idea, screams, “Lennie!...Lennie for god’s sake don’t drink too much….You gonna be sick like you was last night” (2) Steinbeck, from the very start of the story, wants the readers to understand how George maintains a parental control over Lennie. He is using the power he has in order to keep Lennie as safe as possible. John Steinbeck creates a character like George to present how some who hold power over others do not use it for their own benefit. Although he is often seen in control, George can also be sweet and nurturing. He often assures Lennie that they will always have each other. One of the many times Lennie asks George to repeat their dream, he goes on to explain how most ranchmen are lonely and they don’t have anything to look forward to. He then adds, “With us it ain't like that.We got a future. We got somebody to talk to that gives a damn about us.” (7) George is affectionate and kind to Lennie multiple times in the novel. George wants what is best for Lennie, so he stays and cares for …show more content…
Curley is a very self-centered rancher who possesses power due to his father being the boss of the ranch. When Curley assumes Lennie is laughing at him, he gets angry and, “... stepped over to Lennie like a terrier.”(12) Curley is trying hopelessly to use his power over Lennie to seem tough heading into this fight, yet being as small as he is in proportion to Lennie, he comes off looking like a terrier. Terriers, often being small and yappy dogs, are authoritative in a sense that they try to take charge of everything. This is much like Curley as he tries to take power over every situation. Another example of this would be while he and Lennie are fighting. When Lennie unexpectedly started fighting back, Curley was surprised. “Curley's fist was swinging when Lennie reached for it. The next minute Curley was flopping like a fish on a line…” (13) Steinbeck incorporates this simile to demonstrate the weakness of Curley. Curley uses his power to make himself seem strong and tough when really he is defenseless and clumsy. His physical power is weak, but his mental power is strong because his dad runs the ranch, therefore boosting his self-esteem. Finally, Curley attempts to frighten other ranchers to make himself seem superior to them. When he is first introduced to George and Lennie, “His arms gradually bent at the elbows and his hands closed into fists. He