Primary Characters in Of Mice and Men
George Milton: The Practical Dreamer
George Milton stands as one of literature's most complex caretakers - a man caught between his dreams and his responsibilities. Let's break down what makes him tick:
Physical and Personality Traits
- Small but quick-witted
- Sharp features and restless eyes
- Intelligent and practical
- Often irritable but deeply compassionate
Key Character Elements
- Role as Protector
- Acts as Lennie's guardian and voice of reason
- Constantly plans ahead to keep them both safe
- Carries the burden of making difficult decisions
- Internal Conflict
- Struggles between freedom and loyalty
- Dreams of independence while being tied to Lennie
- Battles between harsh reality and hopeful aspirations
Lennie Small: The Gentle Giant
Physical and Mental Characteristics
- Physically large and powerful
- Mentally disabled with childlike behavior
- Obsessed with soft things
- Unaware of his own strength
Key Aspects
- Symbolic Significance
- Represents pure innocence in a harsh world
- Embodies the vulnerability of dreams
- Shows the danger of uncontrolled strength
- Relationship Dynamics
- Completely dependent on George
- Loyal to a fault
- Tries hard to remember and please
Curley's Wife: The Lonely Dream Seeker
Character Complexity
- Young and attractive
- Nameless throughout the novel
- Flirtatious but deeply lonely
- Harbors crushed dreams of stardom
