Certain references in the book are exclusively about males, pointing towards a patriarchal society. Language plays a big factor in determining the age context, especially the grammar and word/phrases used, and the occasional displays of racism also dictate this. The patriarchal society context becomes particularly clear at three points in the novel. The first is at the beginning; “this limb [of the sycamore] is worn smooth by men who have sat on it” (1-8) is a clear example. The mere fact that the quote specifically refers to men, indicates that the views and values of the society are sexist.
Also in referring exclusively to men it becomes clear that women do not travel, as such they do not look for, or, are not allowed to work. Secondly, it can be seen through the character of Curley’s wife. The mere fact, that the very character that plays the largest part in Lennie’s death and the ultimate demise of the American Dream for the two main characters, does not have a name goes to show the sexism of society at the time, thus promoting a patriarchal context. Finally it is seen through Curley’s actions towards his wife. “You can talk to people, but I can’t talk to nobody but Curley.
Else he gets mad” (92-97) shows the domination of the male figure. That Curley is able to control his wife in such a manner strongly re-enforces the patriarchal view. Language plays a large factor in revealing the age of the context in which the novel is set. The language used in the dialogue plays the biggest part in this. The only swear words mentioned are ‘Bitch’ and ‘Bastard’, and while these words are still offensive in the novel’s context, they are the only words used, dictating a much older context. If the text were a modern one the characters would posses a much larger arsenal of swear words thus, the context is an older one.
The Term Paper on Women and Patriarchal Society in Shakespeare
The domination of women through patriarchal expectations is common throughout Shakespeare's works. An examination of Ophelia, Hero, and Desdemona portrays their victimization through male centered forms of power. These patriarchal power structures classify women as walking wombs who must remain virtuous until marriage. The pressure from these expectations leaves women weak and vulnerable. As long ...
Other dialogue features that point towards an older society are the use of grammar, but more importantly the phrases and words used. Words such as “Tramp” and “Jail-Bait” are not terms used today (instead replaced by “Slut” and “A ticket to the can” respectively) the former showing an older setting. The racism shown towards Crooks also displays the age of the context of the novel. When Crooks says “I ain’t wanted in the bunkhouse… ‘Cause I’m black” (70-77) to Lennie it becomes clear that, despite Crooks being a loyal worker, a nice man and one who seems to avoid trouble, he is still discriminated against.
Though this racist attitude is a typical part of the Southern American culture, the extent of it is in the novel dictates a much older and racist context. So throughout the novel it becomes clear that the context shown is that of a 1920s, white, Christian male America. This is seen through the exclusive reference to males, the control Curley has over his wife, the language, grammar and phrases used and the racism shown towards Crooks. There are three main aspects of the American Dream that are represented in the novel; they are, ‘Own our own Property’, the ‘Easy Life’ and ‘Happiness’.
All these aspects are almost exclusively represented through the dialogue. The ‘Own our own Property’ aspect resonates throughout the whole book. The entire series of events within the novel are all for the purpose of saving enough money to buy Lennie and George their own property. “We’re gonna get the jack together and we’re gonna have a little house and a couple of acres” (11-17).
It is obvious that Lennie and George wish to own their own property, fulfilling one aspect of the American Dream. The ‘Easy Life’ aspect is also prominent in the novel, though it does not play as large a role as the property aspect. We’ll just say the hell with goin’ to work” (11-17) clearly shows George’s desire to live the easy life, the life where you actually have no need to work. This is yet another of the many goals that are achieved when the American Dream is fulfilled. The ‘Happiness’ aspect is perhaps one of the most prominent aspects of the American Dream that is promoted through the novel. Through Lennie’s constant reference to rabbits, it is clear that Steinbeck has used the animal as a symbol for happiness. Lennie is always at his best behaved, calmest and most receptive state when he is thinking about his rabbits.
The Term Paper on The American Dream 11
Some people might agree that the American dream still exists, while others don’t or they have different beliefs. The American dream is one of the most controversial themes in the United States. I totally agree that the American Dream is still on, though we need to work a little more to make it happen. I recently read a quote by Senator John Kerry that relates two articles that I have read in the ...
This is because he is happy and as such is able to ‘function’ better. The rabbits are the last things on Lennie’s mind before he dies, his best and truest form of happiness, which is really all that the American Dream is about. To conclude, the aspects of the American Dream represented in ‘Of Mice and Men’ are three of the most sought after in real life, Owning a property, the Easy Life and Happiness. All are represented through dialogue and all are constantly seen in the characters throughout the book who, despite their grand efforts, ultimately fail to achieve their American Dream.
