The Powerlessness of the Weak

Traces the theme that the weak and vulnerable characters in the novel are at the mercy of stronger forces, and their fates are determined by those with power.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

The Weak Characters

The Vulnerable Lennie's Vulnerability Lennie is vulnerable because of his mental limitations. He cannot control his own strength. He is dependent on George. He is a target for Curley's aggression. Candy's Vulnerability Candy is vulnerable because of his age and his missing hand. He is afraid of being fired. He has no power in the ranch hierarchy. Crooks's Vulnerability Crooks is vulnerable because of his race. He is segregated and threatened. He cannot defend himself against the racism of the society. Curley's Wife's Vulnerability Curley's wife is vulnerable because of her gender. She is objectified and isolated. She has no power in her marriage or on the ranch.

The Fates of the Weak

The Destruction of the Weak Lennie's Death Lennie is killed by the only person who loves him. He is powerless to prevent his own death. His fate is determined by the circumstances and his own nature. Candy's Loss Candy loses his dog and his dream. He is left with nothing. He is powerless to change his situation. Crooks's Isolation Crooks remains isolated. He is powerless to escape the racism that traps him. His fate is to remain an outsider. Curley's Wife's Death Curley's wife dies alone. She is powerless to escape her marriage or her fate. The weak are destroyed by the strong, either by violence or by neglect.

The first two days at the ranch

The end of the novel