Early Life and Dreams:
* Loss of Family: George was orphaned at a young age, and his aunt Clara raised him until her death. This loss shaped his character and his yearning for stability and companionship.
* Friendship with Lennie: George's life changes dramatically when he meets Lennie, a large and mentally disabled man. George takes Lennie under his wing, forming a deep bond and becoming responsible for his well-being.
* Shared Dream: George and Lennie share a dream of owning a small farm, a place where they can escape the hardships of migrant life and live a life of peace and independence.
Events on the Ranch:
* Arrival at the Ranch: George and Lennie arrive at a ranch in California, looking for work. George's initial attempts to secure jobs for himself and Lennie are fraught with challenges, highlighting the discrimination Lennie faces due to his mental disability.
* Trouble with Curley: The ranch owner's son, Curley, is a jealous and aggressive man. He harasses Lennie, leading to a confrontation that ends with Lennie breaking Curley's hand.
* Death of Curley's Wife: Lennie's inability to control his strength leads to a tragic incident. He accidentally kills Curley's wife, who was seeking companionship and affection.
* Flight and Pursuit: George and Lennie flee the ranch, knowing that Lennie will be punished for his actions. However, Lennie becomes overwhelmed and confused, leading to a confrontation with the other ranch hands.
Climax and Conclusion:
* Final Sacrifice: Faced with the imminent threat of Lennie being tortured and killed by the vengeful ranch hands, George makes a heartbreaking decision. He takes Lennie to their dream spot, by the river, and shoots him in the back of the head, ending Lennie's suffering and preventing him from further harm.
* The End of the Dream: The novel concludes with George's grief and the realization that his dream of a peaceful life with Lennie is forever lost.
George's Character Arc:
Throughout the novel, George experiences a complex emotional journey. He struggles to balance his responsibility for Lennie with his own desire for freedom and independence. He exhibits both strength and vulnerability, compassion and frustration, ultimately sacrificing his dream for the sake of his friend.
While the ending is tragic, George's actions reveal his deep love and loyalty towards Lennie, emphasizing the powerful bond of friendship and the harsh realities of the time.