Of Mice And Men' Candy Character Description
John Steinbeck's novel, 'Of Mice and Men,' is a classic tale of two migrant workers, George Milton and Lennie Small, who dream of owning their own farm. The novel is set during the Great Depression era and is a poignant portrayal of the struggles faced by ordinary people during that time. One of the most interesting characters in the novel is Candy, an old swamper who works at the ranch where George and Lennie are employed. In this article, we will explore Candy's character and his role in the novel.
Physical Description of Candy
Candy is an old man, who has lost his right hand in an accident at the ranch. He is described as having a stooped posture and walks with a limp. His face is wrinkled, and he has a toothless grin. He wears denim trousers and a blue denim coat with brass buttons. Despite his age and physical limitations, Candy is a hard worker and takes pride in his work.
Relationship with George and Lennie
Candy is initially wary of George and Lennie, but he is drawn to their dream of owning a farm. He offers them his life savings to help them buy the farm, but his offer is rejected when George and Lennie discover that the farm they had been promised is no longer available. Despite this setback, Candy remains loyal to George and Lennie and helps them in any way he can.
Candy's Loneliness
Candy is a lonely man, who has lost his dog and his hand. He is ostracized by the other ranch workers because of his age and disability. He is desperate for companionship and is drawn to George and Lennie's friendship. When he hears about their dream of owning a farm, he sees it as an opportunity to escape his lonely existence.
Candy's Regrets
Candy regrets not shooting his own dog when it became too old and infirm to work. He sees the same fate befalling himself and is afraid of being discarded like his dog. He is also regretful of not standing up for his dog when the other ranch workers suggested that it be put down. His regrets highlight the theme of loneliness and the harsh realities of life during the Great Depression.
Candy's Role in the Novel
Candy's character represents the marginalized and vulnerable members of society. He is a symbol of the harsh realities of life during the Great Depression. His relationship with George and Lennie highlights the importance of companionship and friendship in a world where people are struggling to survive. Candy's loyalty to George and Lennie, despite their setbacks, shows the resilience of the human spirit and the power of hope and dreams.
Candy's Death
Candy's character meets a tragic end in the novel. He is left alone after George kills Lennie, and his dream of owning a farm with George and Lennie is shattered. Candy's death symbolizes the futility of dreams and the harsh realities of life during the Great Depression.
Conclusion
Candy's character is an integral part of the novel 'Of Mice and Men.' His physical limitations, loneliness, regrets, and loyalty to George and Lennie make him a compelling and sympathetic character. His death highlights the theme of the futility of dreams and the harsh realities of life during the Great Depression. Candy's character is a reminder of the importance of companionship, friendship, and hope in a world where people are struggling to survive.