Friendship and Fragility: A Study of Of Mice and Men

Exploring Dreams, Loneliness, and the Human Condition
Grades 11-12

Course Description:
Discover the enduring power of John Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men, a timeless exploration of friendship, dreams, and the human condition set against the harsh realities of the Great Depression. Over the course of four weeks, students will follow George and Lennie's journey as they pursue the fragile hope of a better life, confronting themes of loneliness, power dynamics, injustice, and moral responsibility.

Through thoughtful discussions, close readings, and creative projects, students will develop critical analysis skills while forging personal connections to the novel’s characters and conflicts. Steinbeck’s nuanced portrayal of marginalized voices will challenge students to examine social inequalities—past and present—and reflect on the complexities of justice, mercy, and human dignity.

Course Objectives:
By the end of this course, students will be able to:

  • Analyze Steinbeck’s use of symbolism, dialogue, and setting to develop themes and characters

  • Understand the historical and social context of the Great Depression and its impact on marginalized groups

  • Engage thoughtfully with moral and ethical questions raised by the novel

  • Articulate interpretive insights through creative and analytical writing projects

  • Develop perspective-taking and critical thinking through close reading and structured debate

Course Includes:

  • Weekly 60-minute live sessions (small group discussion-based)

  • Close Reading Assignments of Of Mice and Men (Chapters 1–6)

  • Thematic Discussions (Dreams, Loneliness, Power, Justice)

  • Historical Context Exploration (Great Depression)

  • Reflective Journaling and Character Perspective Writing

  • Final Project (Creative interpretation or formal literary analysis)

  • Optional Research Opportunities for Deeper Exploration

Materials Needed:

  • A hard-copy of Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck

  • Notebook or journal for reflections

  • Optional: Access to online research tools for historical background exploration

Classical and traditional literature like 'Of Mice and Men' by Sinclair Lewis used for student enrichment at Cogito Learning Center, supporting strong literacy and analytical skills.

Why This Course Matters:
Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men is not simply a story about a dream deferred — it is a profound meditation on friendship, justice, and human dignity. This course gives students the tools to read deeply, think critically, and engage meaningfully with some of life's hardest questions — skills they will carry into higher education and life beyond.