The American Dream in Of Mice and Men: How Steinbeck Critiques the Idea of the American Dream Through the Characters’ Aspirations and Struggles
The American Dream in Of Mice and Men: How Steinbeck Critiques the Idea of the American Dream Through the Characters’ Aspirations and Struggles
Of Mice and Men is a powerful critique of the American Dream, examining how the ideal of prosperity and success is often unattainable for the disenfranchised, especially during the Great Depression. The novel’s characters—most notably George and Lennie—dream of owning their own piece of land, a vision that represents independence, security, and a better future. However, Steinbeck uses their struggles to show that this dream is often an illusion for those at the bottom of the social ladder.
George and Lennie’s dream of owning land is a driving force behind their actions and motivations. It gives them hope and provides a sense of purpose as they navigate the oppressive, brutal conditions of itinerant labor during the Depression. However, their dream remains elusive, and throughout the novel, it becomes increasingly clear that their aspiration is unrealistic within the context of the time period and their circumstances. Their inability to achieve this dream symbolizes the failure of the American Dream for the working poor, who are systematically excluded from the opportunities for wealth and success that the dream promises.
Other characters in the novel also harbor similar aspirations, including Crooks, who dreams of being treated equally, and Candy, who hopes to join George and Lennie in their pursuit of a better life. However, each of these characters faces barriers—whether racial prejudice, age, or disability—that make the dream unattainable. In this way, Steinbeck critiques the American Dream by demonstrating that it is often an unreachable fantasy for marginalized individuals, even when they are willing to work hard and sacrifice.
Steinbeck’s portrayal of the American Dream in Of Mice and Men suggests that it is a myth that provides hope but ultimately leads to disappointment and despair. The characters’ dreams are crushed by systemic oppression, social barriers, and harsh realities, revealing the limitations of the American Dream and questioning the validity of a society that promises equality while perpetuating inequality.
