Life Lessons from Steinbeck

Readers have always found Steinbeck’s novels to be meaningful in that they teach us life lessons.  What social message or lesson did you find laced throughout this novel and what incident, character or quote helped generate this message in your mind?

Survival of the Fittest

Critics claim that the theme of Social Darwinism or the concept of the “survival of the Fittest” exists throughout this novella.   Where do you find evidence of the theme or message of "Social Darwinism" within this novel?

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If you are unsure as to what Social Darwinism is, click on the hyperlinked term below:
 Resource below:
(..."only the fittest organisms will prevail" (a view sometimes derided as "Social Darwinism." wikipedia.com)

Foreshadowing in Of Mice and Men

There were many foreshadows (objects, incidents, colors, statements, images, settings and so on) that appeared which were later significant when similar events later occurred.    
What foreshadows did you identify in this story so far?   What evidence do you have to prove them so?

Materialism

Why do you think so many people in our society see happiness in purely material terms? (write your own resp. first, then comment/ bounce others'.)

Dreams

Are you happy with your life where you are today- explain why.  (If not, what is it that is keeping you from begin content and are they materialistic?)

American Dream in the Media

1- Can you think of any American Dream- themed books or movies that presented a character who achieved, and therefore struggled to achieve his or her American Dream.