Part 3 OPTIONAL prompts

1. On p. 39 George spoke “proudly” of Lennie for the first time ever while talking to Slim. Later, on p. 44 Candy spoke proudly of his old dog as well. How are these two situations alike?

2. Beyond the smell, why do you think Carlson suggested shooting the dog? What might the dog itself, or the shooting of the dog, symbolize? Why do you think Candy eventually agreed to it?

3. Any time an author uses repetition, it is usually meaningful. Steinbeck has used the word ‘deliberate’ five times (so far) throughout the novel. Find the word on pages 22, 28, 42, 51, and 55 and see if you can find the significance. He also uses the word “morosely” numerous times; evaluate its meaning. Finally, he refers to Lennie’s strength repeatedly; why?

4. We learned a LOT more detail about George & Lennie’s dream. But “when Candy spoke, they both jumped as though they had been caught doing something reprehensible…[and] George was on guard immediately.” WHY the panic??? And why do you think Candy wants “in” on the dream?

5. DO NOT SUMMARIZE “the fight scene”. Instead, analyze its significance! What characteristics were solidified about the many characters who were present during this calamity (Curley, George, Lennie, Carlson, Candy, Slim)? What similarities did you find between this fight and the situation in Weed?

6. Throughout part 3, Steinbeck infuses imagery using light and darkness. What is the effect on the reader? (mood) And what might it symbolize?

7. Have you begun to notice the language that Steinbeck uses to describe Slim? Without simply listing quotes about him, analyze Steinbeck’s word choice regarding Slim’s physical characteristics and actions.