Prejudice In Of Mice And Men

Of MIce and Men is a novel based on two migrant workers during the Era of the Great Depression. It shows the struggles and challenges they face, particularly focussing on the theme of prejudice. Steinbeck aimed to raise the issues of societal discrimination and the negative stigma surrounding individuals based on their appearances. The main forms of discrimination presented within the novel were ableism, racism and sexism. These themes were carried out through the characters Lennie, Crooks and Curley’s wife. Not to mention displaying the treatment from society and the effect on the individual from preconceived judgement. The novel focuses on looking beyond a character's appearance and understanding them as an individual who has a sense of purpose.
Ableism is a form of prejudice that is explored throughout “Of Mice and Men” and is portrayed through the main character Lennie. Within the novel Lennie displays a mental disorder that affects his thought processes and his level of understanding. This disorder causes Lennie to think and act
As an African-American during this time period, Crooks was severely disadvantaged and faced racial discrimination and segregation on a regular basis. Not to mention that alongside his race he dealt with a crooked back which only further disadvantaged him. Within the novel Steinbeck portrayed the little power Crooks possessed and the racism aimed towards him based on the colour of his skin, without understanding him as an individual. Not only that but Crooks’ insight on prejudice and how he views the discrimination and stigma surrounding social issues, but also the advantages that come with it. ”In the world of the ranch, there are a lot of disadvantages to being crippled, black, mentally handicapped, or female. But, Crooks slyly points out, there are some advantages, too: no one holds you responsible for your actions. Whatever you say, "it don't mean nothing." Good point, but we're still not sure it's worth it.”The issue is conveyed throughout the novel in which the surrounding characters act upon their preconceived judgement excluding Crooks and restricting him from his rights. For example, Crooks is barely fed, isn’t allowed to drink, is beaten and occupies different housing compared to the others.The novel highlights the lack of rights attributed African-Americans These significant differences are solely because of his race. Besides being