What do we learn about the role played by Curley's wife in "of mice and men".

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Sehrish Tariq 11.O

What do we learn about the role played by

Curley’s wife in “of mice and men”

Curley’s wife is a very interesting character. As the sole woman in the novel she could be said to represent her gender. However, few readers would regard her in a positive manner. Even before she appears in the novel, readers are given a negative impression of her as a sexual promiscuous character. Her role in the novel allows Steinbeck to develop he’s central themes such as loneliness and dreams.

In society women are terribly degraded by men’s comments and actions. They are victims of prejudiced, which leads to loneliness.

“she got the eye goin’ all the time on everybody. I bet she gives the stable buck the eye…”.

Curley’s wife is never referred to anything but “Curley’s wife”. This symbolises that she is thought of as he’s property. None of the men speak very highly of her they all think in their words that she is “Jail bait”. This is realistic because even today we see this type of sexism occurring.

Curley’s wife walks the ranch as a temptress, she also hides a deep sense of loneliness behind the “tramp”, “tart” and “bitch” attitude she puts on. Her first outburst in crooks room shows her image.

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“…Sat'iday night. Everybody out doing som'pin. Ever'body! An what am i doin? Standin' here talkin' to a bunch of bindle stiffs, a nigger an a dum- dum and a lousy ol' sheep, an' likin' it because they ain't nobody else.

For a young lady to be left home alone all day would send anyone in a deep state of depression. She is married to a man that gives her little attention and none of he’s time. This is why I think she degrades herself. She shows little or no sign of respect for herself. She flirts with other ...

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