The Bottom Line
Published in 1937, John Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men has been frequently banned on social grounds. The book has been called "offensive" and "vulgar" because of the language and characterization. But, the novel also brought Steinbeck recognition and accolade--the book was chosen for Book of the Month and the novel was on bestseller lists.
The title refers to Robert Burns's "To a Mouse."
The title refers to Robert Burns's "To a Mouse."
Pros
- Great American literary classic
- Influenced by Ernest Hemingway
- One of John Steinbeck's most famous works
Cons
- One-dimensional characters
- Sentimental
Description
- Title: Of Mice and Men
- Author: John Steinbeck
- Type of Work & Genre: Novel; Fiction
- Time & Place (Setting): Mid-1930s; Pacific Grove and Los Gatos ranch, California
- Pub Date: 1937
- Narrator: 3rd-person omniscient
- Protagonists: George and Lennie
- Antagonist: Curley
Guide Review - 'Of Mice and Men' Summary
Of Mice and Men is the famous and controversial American novel by award-winning writer, John Steinbeck. Here, he explores the lives of migrant agricultural workers in the Salinas Valley of California. The novel examines the relationship between two men, Lenny and George, but also touches upon mental illness, the role of the outsider, the American Dream, and murder.
Who is responsible? Is it enough to say that Lennie didn't mean to hurt anyone? There's a poignant, tragic tone to the novel.
Who is responsible? Is it enough to say that Lennie didn't mean to hurt anyone? There's a poignant, tragic tone to the novel.
