Why do George and Lennie have to leave Weed? This question arises from the novel “Of Mice and Men” by John Steinbeck, where the characters George and Lennie are forced to flee their small town due to the consequences of their actions and the society they live in. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind their departure and the impact it has on their lives.
The first and foremost reason George and Lennie have to leave Weed is the fear of Lennie’s mental disability. Lennie is a gentle giant with a mental age of a child, which leads to him often causing unintentional harm to others. In Weed, Lennie accidentally kills a woman named Curley’s wife, which is a direct consequence of his inability to control his own strength. The townspeople are scared and愤怒 of Lennie, and George knows that they will not hesitate to harm or kill Lennie if they catch him again. To protect his mentally challenged friend, George has no choice but to leave Weed.
Another reason for their departure is the discrimination and prejudice against them. George and Lennie are both migrant workers, and in the 1930s, the Great Depression era, they face a lot of discrimination from the townspeople. They are seen as lower-class individuals, and their dream of owning a small farm and living off the land is ridiculed by the townspeople. The constant pressure and disdain from others force them to leave Weed in search of a more welcoming place.
Furthermore, the constant threat of violence and abuse from Curley and his friends is another reason why George and Lennie have to leave Weed. Curley, the boss’s son, is known for his violent nature and constant harassment of Lennie. George knows that staying in Weed would only lead to more suffering for Lennie and himself. By leaving, they hope to escape the cycle of violence and find a safer place to live.
Lastly, the novel suggests that George and Lennie’s dream of owning a farm is an impossible one in Weed. The townspeople are skeptical of their dream and do not believe they have the capability to achieve it. This lack of support and the constant rejection of their aspirations force them to leave Weed and continue their journey in search of a place where their dream might be realized.
In conclusion, George and Lennie have to leave Weed due to the fear of Lennie’s mental disability, the discrimination and prejudice they face, the constant threat of violence, and the unattainable nature of their dream. Their departure highlights the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and the harsh realities of the 1930s American society. The novel “Of Mice and Men” serves as a powerful reminder of the struggles and sacrifices made by those who dream of a better life.
