Please respond to ONE of the following prompts in 1 full paragraph (minimum of 5 sentences). If you read Of Mice and Men, please respond to Prompt A. If you chose to read a different novel, please respond to Prompt B.
Prompt A: Of Mice and Men was set in the 1930s, during the Great Depression. How does this setting impact the characters and plot within the novel? Include at least 1 specific example from the text in which the characters' words, thoughts, or actions are clearly impacted by the novel's setting.
1 answer
In John Steinbeck's novel Of Mice and Men, the setting of the 1930s Great Depression plays a crucial role in shaping the characters and driving the plot forward. The economic hardships faced by the characters, such as George and Lennie, result in constant struggles for survival and the pursuit of the American Dream. This setting creates a sense of hopelessness and instability, impacting the characters' behaviors and relationships. For instance, George and Lennie's dream of owning their own land is a direct reflection of the desire for stability and security in a time of immense uncertainty. Additionally, the economic desperation of the era leads to exploitation and discrimination against marginalized groups, such as Curley's wife, whose dreams are shattered by the harsh realities of the time. Overall, the setting of the Great Depression in Of Mice and Men serves as a backdrop that underscores the challenges and complexities faced by the characters.
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