American Dream and Idealism

Dreams and real life don't mix just like electricity and water don't mix.

Dreams distract from everyday life  - for example, Curley's wife wants to be an actress but she can't. It is clear that this hope and aspiration isn't realistic.

George only survives because he leaves his dream behind.

Lennie's dream is clearly mythical.

The characters who believe in the dream the most, who are most fervant in their hope for a better life are killed (Curley's wife and Lennie). Candy also has a dream and his dog gets shot and he is expendable to the ranch who want to get rid of him because he is old and weak. Steinbeck wants us to see that these people are all victimised by the fact that they have a dream, more than by the harsh realities of their life.

>>> Steinbeck clearly wishes to disillusion us about the American Dream.

When George talks to Slim ...... "I think I knowd from the very first. We'd never do her."

There are glimmers of hope however in the steadfastness and courage that we see in George.

Slim >>>>> also represents hope for humanity.


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