1. Example paragraph for Controlled Assessment – A-A* grade
Steinbeck introduces us to the theme of companionship from the outset through
George and Lennie and an introductory description of two mysterious men, looking
very similar. This is clearly depicted in the quote “They had walked in single file down
the path, and even in the open one stayed behind the other. Both were dressed in
denim trousers and in denim coats with brass buttons. Both wore black, shapeless
hats”. Here we see that their friendship is shown through the similarity of their
appearance and the protectiveness that George has for Lennie by being the leader.
The inclusion of the phrase “and even in the open, one stayed behind the other”
shows that there is a clear leader between the two, and their friendship is based
upon this protective nature, as Lennie very rarely strays from George’s side.
Steinbeck’s use of depicting them like this from the very outset foreshadows the
eventual shooting of Lennie, as George has been the protector from the very start.
This also highlights the importance of their friendship throughout the novel.
Steinbeck is purposefully showing how George and Lennie are set apart and different
to the other migrant ranch workers in the novel, showing that friendship is one of
the greatest gifts a man can have. During the 1930s in America, many men were
isolated and lonely because they had to move from job to job so quickly in order to
find what little work there was – therefore, George and Lennie are shown to be the
exception to these many singular men. From this, the reader will feel admiration
towards George for his protective nature, yet also a sense of apprehension as it
appears the Lennie is so vulnerable something will inevitably happen to him.