Why doesn’t George help Lennie in the fight?
In John Steinbeck’s classic novel “Of Mice and Men,” the relationship between George and Lennie is one of the most poignant and complex in American literature. Despite their deep bond and shared dreams, George ultimately fails to protect Lennie from the brutalities of the world, particularly during a pivotal fight scene. This raises the question: why doesn’t George help Lennie in the fight?
One reason George doesn’t intervene is due to his overwhelming sense of responsibility. George has been Lennie’s protector since they were young boys, and he feels a moral obligation to ensure Lennie’s safety. By not stepping in, George is essentially allowing Lennie to face the consequences of his actions, which is a difficult decision for him to make. He knows that if he intervenes, he might be able to save Lennie from the immediate danger, but he also fears that it might lead to a deeper, more lasting harm to Lennie’s mental state.
Another factor contributing to George’s inaction is the fear of losing Lennie. George and Lennie share a dream of owning their own farm, and George is worried that if he helps Lennie in the fight, it might shatter their fragile dream. He is afraid that once the dream is broken, Lennie might become even more unpredictable and dangerous, making it impossible for them to continue their journey together.
Furthermore, George’s decision not to help Lennie is influenced by the social context of the time. Set in the 1930s during the Great Depression, the novel depicts a world where people are struggling to survive and are often ruthless in their pursuit of self-preservation. In this harsh environment, George is aware that he cannot afford to be seen as weak or vulnerable. By allowing Lennie to face the fight alone, George is attempting to maintain a sense of strength and resilience, which is crucial for their survival.
Lastly, George’s own emotional state plays a significant role in his inability to help Lennie. Throughout the novel, George struggles with his feelings of love, anger, and frustration towards Lennie. He is torn between his desire to protect Lennie and his desire to be free from the burden of caring for him. This internal conflict makes it difficult for George to make the right decision in the heat of the moment.
In conclusion, the reasons why George doesn’t help Lennie in the fight are multifaceted. His sense of responsibility, fear of losing Lennie, the social context of the time, and his own emotional turmoil all contribute to his inaction. This poignant moment in “Of Mice and Men” serves as a powerful reminder of the complexities of human relationships and the challenges of living in a harsh and unforgiving world.
