Throughout Of Mice and Men, Steinbech uses the character of Curley's wife to highlight some of the key aspects of how women were viewed in America during the 1930s. He reveals the attitudes of men towards women and how they were treated poorly and objectified as possessions of their husbands.
The Dependent Role of Women and Curley's Wife
Curley's wife remains nameless throughout the novella and is only referred to as "Curley's wife," mirroring the societal belief that women were dependent on men and lacked importance. Contrary to the expected role of a housewife, Curley's wife is portrayed as a seductive and manipulative figure, always seeking attention from the men on the ranch. She represents a misunderstood character, showing how she is viewed by men in 1930s America, while she herself is an innocent, lonely, and defensive figure.
The Unattainable Dream of Women
Curley's wife's dream of being "in the movies" and wearing "nice clothes" and staying in "big hotels" reflects the aspirations of many women in 1930s America. However, her dream remains unattainable due to the restrictions placed on her by society and her husband, Curley. Her dream serves as a distraction from her unhappiness and the unpleasantness she faces in her life.
Loneliness and Isolation
The character of Curley's wife also portrays the loneliness experienced by women during the 1930s, as a result of their isolation and the misogynistic attitudes towards them. She is seen as solely an object in Curley's possession, deprived of meaningful communication, and treated as a lesser person by the men on the ranch. Her attempts to engage in conversation with the men are misinterpreted as flirtatious behavior, further emphasizing her isolation.
Struggle for Power
Curley's wife's character illustrates the struggle of women for power in a society where they are perceived as inferior due to their gender. Despite her lack of authority, she manipulates her beauty to gain some advantage over the men on the ranch. Her actions also highlight the inferiority imposed on women and African Americans during the 1930s, reflecting the societal power dynamics of that time.
In conclusion, Steinbeck uses the character of Curley's wife to shed light on the societal treatment of women in 1930s America, where they were viewed solely as possessions of their husbands. The novel captures the unattainable dreams of many women during that time, while also highlighting the inferior status assigned to women and African Americans in society. This portrayal serves as a reflection of the harsh reality of life for marginalized groups in America during the 1930s.
