Why Did George Killed Lennie Analysis

In John Steinbeck's classic novel, "Of Mice and Men," one of the most controversial and heartbreaking moments is when George makes the difficult decision to kill his friend Lennie. The question that arises is, why did George feel compelled to take such drastic action? To answer this question, we must delve into the complex dynamics of George and Lennie's relationship, as well as the societal context in which they lived.

Firstly, it is important to understand the bond between George and Lennie. George takes on the role of caregiver and protector for Lennie, who has a mental disability. Throughout the novel, George is constantly looking out for Lennie, ensuring his safety and well-being. This creates a deep sense of responsibility for George, as he feels obligated to protect Lennie from harm. Despite the challenges that come with caring for someone with a disability, George remains loyal to Lennie, forming a strong bond based on mutual trust and reliance.

Furthermore, the societal context in which George and Lennie live plays a crucial role in shaping George's decision to kill Lennie. The Great Depression of the 1930s created a harsh and unforgiving environment for the characters in the novel. Jobs were scarce, and those who were considered "different" or "weak" were often marginalized and mistreated. Lennie, with his disability and childlike nature, becomes a target for discrimination and violence. George is acutely aware of the dangers that Lennie faces in such a harsh world, and he feels the weight of responsibility to protect his friend from harm.

As the story progresses, we see Lennie unintentionally causing harm to others, most notably to Curley's wife. Lennie's actions result in tragedy, leading to a chain of events that culminates in George being faced with a heartbreaking decision. Despite his deep affection for Lennie, George realizes that he can no longer keep him safe in a world that is hostile and unforgiving. In a moment of desperation and sorrow, George makes the difficult choice to end Lennie's life, believing it to be the only way to ensure that his friend does not suffer a worse fate at the hands of others.

In conclusion, George's decision to kill Lennie is a complex and morally ambiguous act that is influenced by a combination of factors, including his deep bond with Lennie, his sense of responsibility as a caregiver, and the harsh realities of the society in which they live. While some may view George's actions as a merciful act of love, others may see it as a tragic consequence of a world that offers little compassion or understanding for those who are different. Ultimately, the analysis of why George killed Lennie reveals the complexities of human relationships, moral dilemmas, and the harsh realities of a society in crisis. One piece of evidence from the text that supports the idea of George feeling a deep sense of responsibility for Lennie is when he tells Slim, "I been mean, ain't I?" This shows that George is grappling with the weight of his role as Lennie's protector, recognizing that his actions may not always be kind but are driven by his desire to keep Lennie safe. Additionally, when George is recounting the story of how they lost their last job in Weed to Slim, he emphasizes that he promised Lennie's Aunt Clara that he would always look out for him. This highlights the depth of George's commitment to Lennie, as he made a solemn vow to care for him no matter what challenges they may face.

Moreover, the societal context of the Great Depression is vividly depicted in the novel, with evidence of the harsh realities faced by characters like George and Lennie. Steinbeck paints a bleak picture of a world where those who are vulnerable or different are at risk of being mistreated or exploited. This is evident in the character of Crooks, the African American stable-hand who is isolated and marginalized because of his race. The discrimination and prejudice that Crooks faces serve as a reminder of the dangers that Lennie, with his mental disability, also encounters in a society that values strength and conformity.

In the climactic scene where George is forced to make the agonizing decision to kill Lennie, the tension between his love for his friend and the harsh realities of their circumstances is palpable. Steinbeck writes, "And George raised the gun and steadied it, and he brought the mussel of it close to the back of Lennie's head." This moment captures the heart-wrenching conflict that George experiences, torn between his desire to protect Lennie and the knowledge that he can no longer keep him safe in a world that is unforgiving and cruel.

Overall, the decision to kill Lennie is a tragic and complex moment in the novel that reveals the depths of George's love and loyalty to his friend, as well as the harsh realities of the society in which they live. Through an analysis of the bond between George and Lennie, the societal context of the Great Depression, and the events leading up to the fateful act, we gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of human relationships and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals in times of crisis.