Human Nature In John Steinbeck's Of Mice And Men

Authors often use various literary devices to communicate with their audiences a deeper message about human nature. For example, many writers use a character’s physical portrayal to reflect aspects of their personality developing the individual’s role in the book. If done successfully, the character will take the form of a real-life individual, allowing the reader to connect with the character on a deeper level. However, in certain circumstances, this portrayal of human nature does not accurately demonstrate one’s role in society. An ideal example of this occurs in the story -Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck written in 1937, in which two migrant workers are trying to earn money at a Ranch to one day own their own farm. Steinbeck sculpts the
The only male black character in the story Of Mice and Men is Crooks who represents the suffering of African Americans. Throughout his appearances in the story, he is treated unjustifiably by his fellow workers. For example, his boss takes all his anger on Crooks even when it is not his fault. Crook’s treatment can be compared to that of an animal because he too is considered useless and weak. The following quote displays Crook’s place and authority in society. He says: "This is just a nigger talkin', an' a busted-back nigger. So it don't mean nothing, see?" (Steinbeck 35). His opinions and needs are ignored as if he didn’t exist. For this reason, he cannot be considered an individual human being because his words are considered worthless. In addition, unlike normal human beings that interact with the outside world, Crooks is kept in a room alone with no company. He tells Lennie: "…You go on get outta my room. I ain’t wanted in the bunk house, and you ain’t wanted in my room” (Steinbeck 33). None of the other migrant workers want to communicate or spend time with Crooks simply because of he is black. His skin colour alone has depicted his personality and role in the book. Anything beyond that such as his inner traits are automatically disregarded by the white race. Furthermore, Crooks is required to listen to everyone’s commands, regardless of how ridiculously absurd they may be. For example, in attempt to hold limited power within the Ranch, Crooks commands Curly’s wife to exit his room or he will suggest that Curly keep her trapped in the house. In response she says, “Well, you keep your place then, Nigger. I could get you string up on a tree so easy it ain’t event funny” (Steinbeck 39). This illustrates a black man’s authority is lower than that of a woman. Overall, Crooks character in Of Mice and Men poorly displays