In John Steinbeck's novel, "Of Mice and Men," the theme of dreams plays a significant role. The characters in the novel all have their own individual dreams, which provide them with a sense of purpose and hope for the future. However, these dreams are often unattainable and ultimately serve as a source of disappointment and frustration for the characters.
One of the main characters, George, dreams of owning his own farm and living a simple, yet fulfilling life. He talks about this dream with his friend, Lennie, who has a mental disability and is heavily dependent on George. Lennie's dream is to tend to rabbits on the farm, and he is constantly reminding George of this dream whenever they are on the ranch. George is patient with Lennie and indulges his dream, even though he knows it is unlikely to come true.
Another character, Candy, is an old swamper who has lost his hand in an accident. He has a dream of buying a small farm with the money he has saved and living out the rest of his days in peace. Candy offers to contribute his savings to George and Lennie's dream farm in exchange for a place on the farm. Candy's dream is ultimately shattered when Lennie accidentally kills the ranch owner's wife and is forced to flee.
The character of Curley's wife also has a dream of becoming a movie star. She is trapped on the ranch, married to a man she does not love, and is desperate for a way out. Her dream of stardom serves as a source of hope and a means of escape from her bleak reality. However, her dream is never realized, as she meets a tragic end at the hands of Lennie.
Throughout the novel, the theme of dreams is portrayed as fragile and elusive. The characters' dreams provide them with a sense of purpose and hope, but they are ultimately unable to achieve them due to various circumstances. The characters' disappointment and frustration with the inability to attain their dreams serves as a reminder of the harsh realities of life and the difficulty of achieving one's goals.
In conclusion, the theme of dreams plays a significant role in "Of Mice and Men." The characters' individual dreams provide them with a sense of purpose and hope, but they are ultimately unable to attain them due to the harsh realities of life. The theme serves as a reminder of the fragility and elusive nature of dreams and the challenges one may face in trying to achieve them.