Why Did George Kill Lennie

Introduction

In John Steinbeck's novella Of Mice and Men, the tragic ending where George Milton kills his friend Lennie Small is one of the most debated and emotionally charged moments in American literature. This act is not just a plot twist but a profound statement on friendship, mercy, and the harsh realities of life during the Great Depression. The question "why did George kill Lennie" goes beyond the surface and touches on themes of responsibility, compassion, and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals in desperate circumstances. This article explores the reasons behind George's heartbreaking decision, offering a detailed analysis of the motivations, context, and implications of this pivotal moment.

Detailed Explanation

The relationship between George and Lennie is central to understanding why George ultimately takes Lennie's life. George is a small, sharp-witted man, while Lennie is a large, mentally disabled man with immense physical strength but limited cognitive abilities. They travel together, working as itinerant laborers during the Great Depression, and share a dream of owning their own piece of land. However, Lennie's inability to control his strength and his childlike innocence often lead to unintended trouble. Throughout the novella, George acts as Lennie's protector, guiding him and keeping him out of harm's way. Despite the challenges, George's love for Lennie is evident, making his final act all the more tragic.

Step-by-Step or Concept Breakdown

To understand why George kills Lennie, it's important to break down the events leading up to that moment. Lennie, in his innocence, accidentally kills Curley's wife in the barn. This act is not malicious but a result of his inability to understand his own strength. When the other men on the ranch discover the body, they form a lynch mob, determined to capture and kill Lennie. George, knowing the brutal fate that awaits Lennie, decides to take matters into his own hands. He finds Lennie by the river, the same place where the story began, and tells him one last time about their dream of owning a farm. As Lennie looks out, George shoots him in the back of the head, ensuring a quick and painless death.

Real Examples

The decision George makes is a reflection of the harsh realities of the time. During the Great Depression, life was unforgiving, and individuals often had to make difficult choices to protect themselves and those they cared about. George's act can be seen as a form of mercy killing, sparing Lennie from a violent and humiliating death at the hands of the mob. This mirrors real-life situations where individuals have had to make agonizing decisions to end the suffering of loved ones, whether in times of war, illness, or extreme hardship. George's choice is not just about Lennie's immediate fate but also about preserving his dignity and the dream they shared.

Scientific or Theoretical Perspective

From a psychological standpoint, George's actions can be analyzed through the lens of moral philosophy and the concept of utilitarianism. Utilitarianism, a theory proposed by philosophers like John Stuart Mill, suggests that the most ethical choice is the one that produces the greatest good for the greatest number of people. In this case, George's decision to kill Lennie can be seen as an act that minimizes suffering. By taking Lennie's life himself, George prevents Lennie from experiencing the terror and pain of being lynched, and he also spares himself and others from the trauma of witnessing such an event. This perspective highlights the complexity of George's decision, as it involves weighing the value of one life against the potential harm to many.

Common Mistakes or Misunderstandings

One common misunderstanding about George's actions is that he kills Lennie out of anger or frustration. However, the text clearly shows that George's decision is driven by love and a desire to protect Lennie. Another misconception is that George's act is purely selfish, a way to rid himself of the burden of caring for Lennie. While George does express moments of frustration throughout the novella, his final act is one of compassion. It's important to recognize that George's decision is not made lightly but is the result of careful consideration of Lennie's well-being and the circumstances they face.

FAQs

1. Why didn't George let the other men capture Lennie?

George knew that if the other men caught Lennie, they would likely torture or kill him in a brutal manner. By taking Lennie's life himself, George ensured a quick and painless death, sparing Lennie from unnecessary suffering.

2. Was George's decision justified?

From a moral standpoint, George's decision can be seen as justified because it was made out of love and a desire to protect Lennie. However, the ethics of taking a life, even with good intentions, remain a complex and debated issue.

3. Did George have any other options?

Given the circumstances, George's options were limited. He could have tried to hide Lennie, but the mob was determined to find him. George's choice was the most humane option available to him.

4. How does George's decision reflect the themes of the novella?

George's decision reflects the themes of friendship, sacrifice, and the harsh realities of life during the Great Depression. It underscores the idea that sometimes, the most difficult choices are made out of love and a desire to protect those we care about.

Conclusion

The question "why did George kill Lennie" is a profound one that touches on the complexities of human relationships, morality, and the challenges of life during difficult times. George's decision is not one of cruelty but of compassion, a final act of love that spares Lennie from a fate worse than death. Through this tragic moment, Steinbeck explores the depths of friendship and the sacrifices we make for those we care about. Understanding George's motivations helps us appreciate the depth of his character and the enduring impact of Steinbeck's masterpiece.