Question

As the two main characters are introduced at the beginning of this chapter, it quickly becomes clear that Lennie has accepted George’s authority. Describe their relationship in detail, using examples from the text. What do each of them offer the other, if anything? Why is George in charge, and how does the author indicate the nature of their relationship to the reader?

Answer 1

Saving Sea Turtles

Small-scale fishing performed with nets is one of the most common fishing methods used around the world. One of the unfortunate side effects of this method is that sea turtles, which are considered threatened, get caught in the nets along with the fish. Conservation biologists at the University of Exeter in England recently devised a way to prevent these sea turtle deaths, which they tested at a fishery in northern Peru. They found that attaching green LED lights to the nets warned the turtles away, possibly because the lights made the nets more visible. The number of sea turtle deaths was reduced, but the number of fish caught seemed to remain the same.

What is the main, or central, idea of the passage?

Saving Sea Turtles

Small-scale fishing performed with nets is one of the most common fishing methods used around the world. One of the unfortunate side effects of this method is that sea turtles, which are considered threatened, get caught in the nets along with the fish. Conservation biologists at the University of Exeter in England recently devised a way to prevent these sea turtle deaths, which they tested at a fishery in northern Peru. They found that attaching green LED lights to the nets warned the turtles away, possibly because the lights made the nets more visible. The number of sea turtle deaths was reduced, but the number of fish caught seemed to remain the same.

What is the main, or central, idea of the passage?Explanation

Answer 2

George and Lennie's relationship is defined by leadership and dependency, with George providing guidance and protection to the mentally challenged Lennie, who in turn offers companionship to George in a lonely environment.

Step-by-step explanation:

The relationship between George and Lennie in John Steinbeck's novel can be characterized by a dynamic of leadership and dependency, with George naturally assuming a position of authority and care. Lennie, who is large and physically strong but mentally challenged, relies on George for guidance and protection. George, on the other hand, provides this guidance and acts almost as a guardian to Lennie, often soothing him and keeping him out of trouble. This dependency is underlined by the sense of responsibility George feels, recognizing that Lennie cannot navigate society's complexities on his own.

The author indicates the nature of their relationship through their interactions and dialogue, where George often gives instructions and Lennie demonstrates a childlike obedience. George's dominance is shown through his decision-making, and despite any frustration, he exhibits a genuine concern for Lennie's well-being. Meanwhile, Lennie provides companionship for George, fulfilling a deep human need for connection, which becomes especially apparent in the isolating environment of itinerant workers during the Great Depression.