QuaiyumExplore how Steinbeck presents the theme of power...

Wednesday 21st November 2012 Quaiyum Miah Explore how Steinbeck presents the theme of power and powerlessness in the relationships between characters in ‘Of Mice and Men’. Focus on the events in chapter 4. The theme of power and powerlessness in chapter 4 of ‘Mice and Men’ is presented by Steinbeck in various ways. For example power is displayed though imagery, characterisation and dialogue. The main theme of power in Steinbeck’s novella includes seduction, physical strength and maintenance of hierarchy. The power of seduction is bestowed upon Curley’s wife as she is the only women on the ranch. The power of strength flourishes in Lennie (who is somewhat of a simpleton and very†¦show more content†¦(Except that Slim contradicts this view seeing as he has allocated himself as an associate of Crooks). As we journey through the narrative of chapter 4, we see that the power of physical strength thrives in Lennie. The way that Lennie is introduced into chapter 4 by Steinbeck displays a remarkable theory of power in 1930s America. ‘Noiselessly Lennie appeared in the open door way and stood there looking in, his big shoulders nearly filling the opening.’ This suggests that Lennie, who is a newcomer, is almost on the same level of power as Cooks. I can say this because the word Steinbeck uses is ‘nearly’ The imagery triggered from that word builds up an impression in the reader’s mind that Lennie who is not greatly respected, is almost on the same hierarchy level as Crooks (even though he has been at the ranch a short time.) Thus displays that in the 1930s America black people were endanger at work of fraudulent respect due to the harsh racism towards them. Such that a newcomer could just waltz in and easily gain the same respect as â€Å"coloured† person, being on the same equality as a black person even though the black person may be an experienced worker. It seems as though Steinbeck indirectly wants us to know that in 1930s America power for black people weren’t as abundant as white people (such as Slim). We know that in the 1930s America black people encountered hardship and did not get the