How George Is Presented in of Mice and Men

In the novel, George plays a vital role as migrant worker, constantly travelling with his mentally ill partner, Lennie. Although he frequently speaks of how much better his life would be without his caretaking responsibilities, George is obviously devoted to Lennie. George's behaviour is motivated by the desire to protect Lennie and, would eventually; deliver them both to the farm of their dreams. Though George is the source for the often-told story of life on their future farm, it is Lennie's childlike faith that enables George to actually believe his account of their future.

Throughout the novel George changes. He proves he is more capable of heavy responsibility and growth, during a conversation with Slim, where he admits, "I used to play jokes on 'im 'cause he was too dumb". Since their younger days George has been like a father figure to Lennie, for example George says in the novel "Oh for God's sake Lennie don't drink the water" this shows George is protecting him.

However, George has developed a hard edge, likely due to tough times and the stress with taking care of a mentally aged infant. He is occasionally mean to Lennie, complaining about everything he misses out on by having to travel with him as baggage. Sometimes he's suspicious of nearly everyone, except Slim. He has recognised that everyone looks up to Slim, like he's the leader of the group, therefore George can relate to him because he is in the same position when he is with Lennie, because he looks up to him and follows his orders. Most of the time this general distrust puts George's relationship with Lennie in even greater contrast, it's pretty extraordinary that George has opened up, and though he doesn't run around declaring that he's partner's with Lennie, it's pretty clear that his loving affection is more than anyone else will ever get.