Where is Lennie Supposed to Go if He Gets in Trouble?
In John Steinbeck’s renowned novella “Of Mice and Men,” the character Lennie faces numerous challenges due to his mental disabilities. To ensure Lennie’s safety, his companion George provides him with specific instructions on where to seek refuge should he find himself in trouble. This article explores the designated hiding place for Lennie, emphasizing the importance of this location and the dynamics between Lennie and George.
Hide in the Brush: George’s Directive
George advises Lennie to hide in the brush if he encounters any trouble. This instruction is significant as it offers Lennie a place of temporary sanctuary and protection. Hiding in the brush allows Lennie to minimize his visibility and potential exposure to harm.
Location: Near the River
Specifically, George instructs Lennie to hide in the brush near the river. This chosen location serves multiple purposes. Firstly, the proximity to the river provides Lennie with a water source, ensuring his basic needs are met while he waits for assistance. Additionally, the brush near the river offers ample coverage, allowing Lennie to remain concealed from others.
Silence is Key
George emphasizes to Lennie the importance of maintaining silence if he finds himself in trouble. This instruction aims to prevent Lennie from inadvertently revealing his vulnerability or exacerbating his situation by drawing attention to himself. By remaining silent, Lennie can avoid unnecessary complications and potentially dangerous encounters.
George’s Commitment
George’s guidance to Lennie demonstrates his unwavering commitment to ensuring Lennie’s safety. He assures Lennie that he will actively search for him in the bushes if he needs assistance. This reassurance highlights the deep bond between the two characters and George’s sense of responsibility towards Lennie.
Conclusion
In “Of Mice and Men,” Lennie is instructed by George to hide in the brush near the river if he finds himself in trouble. This designated hiding place serves as a temporary refuge where Lennie can remain concealed until George comes to his aid. The importance of silence is emphasized to prevent any exacerbation of Lennie’s situation. Through his guidance, George demonstrates his dedication to Lennie’s well-being and showcases the strong bond they share.
Sources:
- Quizlet. “Of Mice and Men Flashcards.” Retrieved from: https://quizlet.com/568423740/of-mice-and-men-flash-cards/
- GradeSaver. “Where does George tell Lennie to hide if he gets in trouble?” Retrieved from: https://www.gradesaver.com/of-mice-and-men/q-and-a/where-does-george-tell-lennie-to-hide-if-he-gets-in-trouble-348905
- All Great Quotes. “Of Mice and Men Quotes.” Retrieved from: https://www.allgreatquotes.com/of-mice-and-men-32/
FAQs
Where does George tell Lennie to go if he gets in trouble?
Answer: George instructs Lennie to hide in the brush near the river if he encounters any trouble.
Why does George advise Lennie to hide in the brush?
Answer: Hiding in the brush provides Lennie with a temporary sanctuary and protection, allowing him to minimize visibility and potential harm.
What is the significance of the location near the river?
Answer: The brush near the river serves as a hiding place for Lennie, offering both coverage and access to a water source to meet his basic needs.
Why does George tell Lennie to remain silent?
Answer: George emphasizes the importance of silence to prevent Lennie from unintentionally revealing his vulnerability or escalating his situation. Remaining silent helps avoid unnecessary complications.
How does George demonstrate his commitment to Lennie’s safety?
Answer: George assures Lennie that he will actively search for him in the bushes if he needs help, showcasing his dedication and responsibility towards Lennie’s well-being.
What is the purpose of Lennie’s hiding place in the story?
Answer: The designated hiding place serves as a refuge for Lennie, allowing him to wait for assistance and ensuring his safety in times of trouble.
Does Lennie understand George’s instructions?
Answer: Lennie’s mental disabilities make it challenging for him to fully comprehend complex instructions, but he trusts and follows George’s guidance to the best of his abilities.
How does the hiding place symbolize the bond between Lennie and George?
Answer: The hiding place represents the trust and reliance between Lennie and George. It symbolizes George’s role as a protector and caregiver for Lennie, highlighting the depth of their relationship.