Here's why:
* Competent: George is a practical and capable man. He is good at his job, responsible with money, and can make quick decisions when necessary. He demonstrates his competence through his ability to plan and strategize for the future, such as acquiring land and building a small farm.
* Wise: George possesses a strong moral compass and understands the complexities of human nature. He is often the voice of reason, offering wise counsel to Lennie, who is easily influenced and prone to making mistakes. He understands the harsh realities of the world, especially the struggles of migrant workers.
* Well-Respected: While not a powerful figure, George is generally respected by his peers. He is known for being reliable and a good friend, as evidenced by the loyalty and respect shown by other ranch hands.
While Lennie is often depicted as a lovable character, his intellectual disability limits his ability to be considered "wise" or "competent" in the same way as George.
It's important to note that while George is portrayed as a strong and capable character, he also struggles with his own limitations. He is burdened by the responsibility of caring for Lennie, and he faces the harsh realities of the Great Depression.