Of Mice and Men Comparison Essay

In the story, there are two oddly paired men, who travel side by side and support each other with the goal of living the ideal life. In a world of loneliness and trouble, these characters, George and Lennie, find comfort within the presence of each other. Another friendship within the story is between Candy and his dog. In John Steinbeck's novella, Of Mice and Men, the author suggests that the friendships between the two sets of individuals have parallel connections. By observing the characters' position in society, the meaning of their relationship with one another, and the killing of their companion, we can conclude that there are similarities between the two partnerships.

Both sets of friends have their designated positions in society. George and Candy act as the supporters in the relationship. Lennie and the dog, however, are dependent upon their supporters to exist in society.

'You know how the hands are, they just come in and get their bunk and work a month, and then they quit and go out alone. Never seem to give a damn about nobody. It jus' seems kinda funny a cuckoo like him and a smart little guy like you travelin' together.' (39)

Lennie is marginalized as the "cuckoo" character that is rather unintelligent and useless. George is clearly established as the man with the intelligence and the supporter of Lennie. Slim seems critical about their partnership, but does not realize the true depth of their friendship. Candy's dog is marginalized as useless and smelly. '" God Awmighty, that dog stinks. Get him outa here, Candy! I don't know nothing that stinks as bad as an old dog. You gotta get him out."' (44) Candy's dog is seen as an old, good-for-nothing dog. The men do not realize that the significance of the dog's existence is that Candy has a sense of companionship with the dog.

The true meaning of relationships is companionship. George could have been well off without Lennie, but still continues to care and support him. They have one another to talk to, be with, and look after.

'With us it ain't like that. We got a future. We got somebody to talk to that gives a damn about us. We don't have to sit in no bar room blowin' in our jack jus' because we got no place else to go. If them other guys gets in jail they can rot for all anybody gives a damn. But not us.' (14)

George and Lennie have the pleasure of companionship, but other individuals do not. Other individuals do not have someone to look after them or care for them. Therefore, George cares for Lennie, and Lennie cares for George. This companionship is evident in Candy and his dog's relationship. Candy is hesitant to end the dog's life because he has bonded with the dog over a long period of time.

'Well--hell! I had him so long. Had him since he was a pup. I herded sheep with him. You wouldn't think it to look at him now, but he was the best damn sheep dog I ever seen... II had him from a pup...' (44-45)

Candy has had a friendship with his dog since its birth. Candy's dog is clearly his best friend. In a lonely world, friends are an important gift to have. Candy's dog is