What Happened on Saturday Night in Of Mice and Men?
In John Steinbeck’s novel “Of Mice and Men,” Saturday night brings about significant events that shape the dynamics between the characters on the ranch. This article will provide an overview of the key occurrences on that particular night, highlighting the interactions between Lennie, Crooks, Candy, and Curley’s wife.
Lennie’s Encounter with Crooks
Lennie, Candy, and Crooks are the only individuals who remain at the ranch while the others venture into town. Lennie, known for his childlike innocence and fascination with soft things, comes across Crooks in his bunk in the barn and expresses a desire to visit with him. Initially, Crooks rebuffs Lennie’s request, reflecting the isolation he experiences as an African American man. However, as their conversation progresses, Crooks allows Lennie to enter his space.
Revelation of the Farm Secret
During their conversation, Lennie inadvertently divulges the secret dream shared with George – owning a farm and living off the land. Crooks, initially skeptical, believes Lennie is fabricating the story. Nevertheless, this revelation provides insight into Lennie’s unwavering belief in the possibility of a better future.
Tensions and Scare Tactics
Crooks, curious about Lennie’s relationship with George, prods him further and instills fear by suggesting that George may never return. This manipulation capitalizes on Lennie’s dependency on George and exacerbates his anxiety about their future together.
Candy Enters the Conversation
Candy, another ranch worker, joins the conversation between Lennie and Crooks. They discuss Lennie’s anticipation of tending rabbits on their future farm, a source of solace for Lennie. However, their conversation takes a dark turn when Crooks interjects, asserting that their farm dream is a mere illusion. He claims that George is spending their money at a whorehouse in town, casting doubt on their aspirations.
Curley’s Wife’s Appearance
The conversation is interrupted by the arrival of Curley’s wife, who claims to be searching for her husband and expresses her loneliness. Her presence creates tension, as Candy accuses her of engaging in inappropriate relationships with other men despite being married. The atmosphere becomes increasingly charged when she questions Lennie about the bruises on his face, caused by a previous encounter with Curley.
Threats and Return of the Men
Curley’s wife, frustrated by the men’s dismissive attitude, threatens Crooks with the threat of lynching. As the conversation continues, noise from the yard signals the return of the other ranch workers. The realization prompts Curley’s wife to taunt Lennie, expressing satisfaction that he had injured Curley. Eventually, George arrives, and Candy reluctantly admits that he had disclosed their farm plan to Crooks.
In conclusion, Saturday night in “Of Mice and Men” marks a pivotal moment in the novel. The interactions between Lennie, Crooks, Candy, and Curley’s wife reveal the characters’ vulnerabilities, fears, and desires. These events contribute to the overall themes of isolation, dreams, and the harsh realities of their lives.
Sources:
- Study.com. “Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck: Ch 4 Summary & Themes.” (URL: https://study.com/learn/lesson/of-mice-and-men-john-steinbeck-ch-4-summary-themes.html)
- Timetoast timelines. “Of Mice and Men Timeline.” (URL: https://www.timetoast.com/timelines/of-mice-and-men-timeline-f77748b9-e6dc-4d56-aabf-0c136fabf624)
- CliffsNotes. “Of Mice and Men: Summary and Analysis: Chapter 4.” (URL: https://www.cliffsnotes.com/literature/o/of-mice-and-men/summary-and-analysis/chapter-4)
FAQs
Why did Lennie visit Crooks on Saturday night?
Lennie visited Crooks because he was alone in his room, and Lennie sought companionship and someone to talk to.
What did Lennie reveal to Crooks during their conversation?
During their conversation, Lennie revealed the secret dream shared with George of owning a farm and living off the land.
How did Crooks respond to Lennie’s revelation about the farm?
Initially, Crooks thought Lennie was making up the story and doubted the feasibility of their dream. However, he eventually softened and engaged in conversation with Lennie.
What did Crooks say to scare Lennie about George?
Crooks prodded Lennie about his relationship with George and suggested that George might not come back, instilling fear and uncertainty in Lennie.
Who interrupted the conversation between Lennie and Crooks?
Curley’s wife interrupted the conversation, claiming that she was looking for her husband and expressing her loneliness.
How did Curley’s wife react to Lennie’s bruises?
Curley’s wife asked Lennie about the bruises on his face, and Lennie guiltily explained that Curley got his hand caught in a machine, causing the injuries.
What threat did Curley’s wife make towards Crooks?
Curley’s wife threatened Crooks with lynching, suggesting violent consequences for his perceived insolence or defiance.
Who arrived at the barn towards the end of the night?
George arrived at the barn, and it was revealed that Candy had informed Crooks about the farm plan.