Saturday, November 8, 2008

Chapter 1 and 2 Summary Questions

1. Identify the following people by telling something important about each one:
a. Lennie - huge, heavy man; mentally-challenged; forgetful; likes animals but usually ends up killing them; obedient; looks up to George; mind of a child; strong
b. George - small, slender; takes care of Lennie; impatient; frequently gets angry at Lennie; short-tempered; wary and watchful; protective; perceptive and smart
c. Curley - scrawny; son of ranch boss; likes to pick fights; dislikes George and Lennie; recently married; cocky and proud
d. Slim - tall and dark-haired; air of authority; respected and admired; understanding
e. Carlson - powerful and big-stomached; friendly; suggests Candy gets a new pup
f. Candy - old and slow man; companion with dog; careful; seasoned; respects others' business
g. Crooks - black stable-hand; separated and treated differently because of skin color

2. Why does Lennie like mice, puppies and rabbits?
Lennie likes holding and petting all kinds of small animals like mice, puppies and rabbits. He loves petting soft things and the idea of taking care of them, but because of his strength, often kills them. He especially looks forward to tending the rabbits on the piece of land George and him hope to own one day.
3. a. When did George meet Lennie?
George met Lennie when they were younger and promised his Aunt Clara he would look after him. They are not blood-related, however.
b. From his actions, how do you think
George feels about Lennie?
I think that though George complains about Lennie, he cares about him and always looks out for and protects his friend. He is only harsh on Lennie to get his message and feelings across and to make sure Lennie does not get himself into trouble.
c. Why do you think George takes care of Lennie?
I think George takes care of him because he values their friendship and believes that together, they can fulfill their dream. He sees Lennie as a brother and best friend, and unlike other men, they have each other.
4. Describe the dream that George and Lennie share.
They share the dream that one day, they will earn enough money to buy a little house and a couple of acres of land. They will own cows, pigs, and most importantly rabbits, which Lennie will tend to. They will "live off of the fat of the land." In the winter, they will not work and instead will build a fire in the stove and listen to the rain.
5. What did Lennie do in Weed to get into trouble?
Lennie grabbed a woman's dress in Weed and would not let go of it. All he wanted to do was touch it because he thought it was soft. He did not realize what he was doing and the men assumed he was assaulting her. Lennie and George were forced to run out of town before Lennie got caught and most likely, severely punished or killed.

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