Of Mice and Men

1
Of Mice and Men Key Points Chapter 3
A number of dark and violent events occur

• death of Candys dog at the hands of Carlson

• the crushing of Curleys hand by Lennie

These events are balanced by events full of
promise

• Lennie receives one of Slims puppies.

• The dream ranch becomes a closer reality when
  Candy offers money to join.

2
Themes

• Power

- George- earlier abuse of power over Lennie
- Carlson macho male who relentlessly pushes
Candy to kill his dog
- Slim so highly regarded that his approval of
killing Candys dog carries power
- Curley picks a fight with Lennie
Alienation/Loneliness

• Candy loses his only companion