“In a good novel, themes are portrayed by the characters.” With reference to a novel you have read, discuss the above proposition.

“Of Mice and Men” is an exhilarating novel written by John Stienbeck. I will examine the themes of friendship, racism, and dreams by examining evidence from the text about the characters George, Lennie and Crooks.

The story describes two characters, George and Lennie who travel around with each other, looking for work, so that their dream of one day owning their own land may come true. However Lennie’s half-witted actions and tremendous strength lead to the death of a number of creatures, including the unnamed Curely’s wife. Although Lennie means no harm by his actions, George felt he could not risk letting him ruin any more lives, so to prevent any further mishaps George shoots Lennie.

The predominant theme in the novel is friendship. George and Lennie are close friends who do everything together, take the blame for each other and will do almost anything for each other. “Lennie crawled slowly and cautiously around the fire until he was close to George.” This quote sh...