Page 2: Power Dynamics and Social Hierarchy

The second page delves deeper into the complex power dynamics and social hierarchies present in 1930s America, particularly through gender roles in the 1930s.

Highlight: The interaction between Curley's wife and Crooks demonstrates the intricate power dynamics between marginalized groups in 1930s America.

Quote: "I could get you strung up on a tree so easy it aint even funny" - revealing the racial tensions and power struggles of the era.

The conclusion reinforces how Steinbeck uses Curley's wife in of mice and men characters to illustrate the broader societal issues of the time, particularly regarding gender and racial discrimination.

Example: The scene where Curley's wife asserts power over Crooks demonstrates how even those with limited power would seek to dominate others in even weaker positions.

Definition: Social hierarchy in 1930s America was strictly defined by both gender and race, with white men at the top of the social ladder.

Page 1: The Character and Dreams of Curley's Wife

Steinbeck masterfully uses Curley's wife in of mice and men to illustrate the harsh realities of Treatment of women in 1930s america. Her character serves as a powerful commentary on the objectification and limitations placed on women during this period.

Highlight: The character's namelessness throughout the novel symbolically represents women's lack of individual identity in 1930s society.

Quote: "Curley's wife remains nameless and is referred to as 'Curley's wife' which mirrors the societal standards that women were believed to be dependent on men"

The text explores her unfulfilled Hollywood aspirations, which represent the broader limitations placed on women's ambitions during this era.

Example: Her dream of being "in the movies" and wearing "all of them nice clothes" represents the unreachable aspirations of many women in the 1930s.

Definition: The American Dream, as portrayed through Curley's wife's character, represents the unattainable aspirations that women held during this period due to societal restrictions.

Vocabulary: "Misogynistic" - referring to the prejudice against women that was prevalent in 1930s America.