Chapter 3 and 4 Summary Questions

1. Why doesn't Candy want to kill his dog?
Candy doesn't want to kill his dog because he feels so attached to him. His dog is his only companion and he's had him ever since he was a little puppy. He is also proud of him because he used to be the best sheep dog he'd ever seen.
Are Candy's feelings understandable? Have you ever felt very attached to an old or sick animal that had to be put to sleep? Explain.
Yes, I own a dog that I've had for ten years and got him when he was just a puppy. I would never want to kill or hurt him, no matter how old.
Why does Candy say later on that he should have shot his dog himself and not let a stranger do it?
Candy regrets not doing it himself. He feels he should have been the one because the dog was his companion and is ashamed of his decision. He should not have let just anyone, let alone a stranger, shoot his dog.It is a very delicate matter, but people often feel at rest when they see their loved ones at their last moments.
2. Why did Curley pick on Lennie?
Curley likes to pick on bigger people than him to prove that he is still tough despite his small size. Because of this, Curley is immediately drawn to Lennie and wants to cause him trouble. He sees Lennie as an easy target.
Describe Curley's main problem in your opinion.
His attitude and the way he thinks he is better and more important than everyone else. He is always picking on others and taking advantage of his ranking. He is also very suspicious of others when it comes to his wife.
Why didn't Lennie fight back at first when Curley hit him?
Lennie was afraid he would not be allowed to tend to the rabbits if he did. He only defended himself when George told him to.
What happened to Curley as a result of picking on Lennie?
Curley ended up with a broken hand and had to go to the doctor. However, he did not fire George or Lennie because he was afraid of people finding out and laughing at him.
3. How does Crooks react to Lennie's appearance at the door of his room?
At first, Crooks tells Lennie to go away and that he should not be allowed in his room if he was not allowed in theirs. Eventually, he lets him in. He is secretly glad to have company.
Crooks says people at the ranch don't like him because he is black. He is treated unfairly because of his skin color and is deprived of many privileges.
Crooks invites Lennie to stay and talk with him because he appreciates the company after being lonely for so long. None of the other men have come into his room before even though they have worked together for so many years. He is happy to finally socialize.