Curley's Wife Identity Essay

In ‘Of Mice and Men’, Steinbeck presents uses some of the characters in order to show the effects that race, sex and disability had on status within communities of this particular time period i.e 1930’s. However, some would argue that it still holds value for modern day situations. These are all exploited as weaknesses by Steinbeck throughout the novel.

Curley’s Wife suffers from a lack of identity. Throughout the entire book Curley’s Wife is simply referred to as ‘Curley’s Wife’ and if not, would be referred to by a demeaning name. This gives the sense of her being presented as either an object or possession of Curley’s. From our first introduction to Curley’s wife, we are shown that she is at the bottom regarding society status, simply from being a Woman. However, some
Crooks is the only African American on the ranch and considering the time period, was unfortunately bound to encounter some form of racism or prejudice. Although Crooks is explained to be a very proud and organised man, due to the discrimination, he is forced to live within the Barn. The racism he has to face, although not being a direct attack at him, due to it being the ‘norm’ of the era, is something that is not intentionally meant to be degrading. Steinbeck would use the literature technique of juxtaposition to present this. A notable example is where Candy says “Ya see the Stable Bucks a Nigger…Nice fella too”. In present time, we are aware of the term ‘Nigger’ being used as a disgusting and derogative term, but in the time period that ‘Of Mice and Men’ is set, it was simply used as a word to describe Black people. The Juxtaposition here shows how Candy would call Crooks ‘Nigger’ and then proceed to say that he was a nice person. Throughout the book, similar to Curley’s wife, Crooks is referenced towards as ‘Nigger’ multiple times. This is a form of labelling, highlighting his low status within the