The Elusive Pursuit of Happiness: Steinbeck's Language in Of Mice and Men

The Elusive Pursuit of Happiness: Steinbeck's Language in Of Mice and Men

Learning Objective

At the end of the lesson, you will be able to analyze Steinbeck's use of language in Of Mice and Men to understand why happiness is depicted as unattainable.

What do you already know about Steinbeck's use of language in Of Mice and Men?

Introduction

Introduce John Steinbeck and his novella, Of Mice and Men. Discuss the themes and motifs present in the story.

Foreshadowing

Explore examples of foreshadowing in the text and how they suggest that happiness will not be attainable for the characters.

Symbolism

Examine the use of symbolism in Of Mice and Men, such as the dream ranch and the characters' relationship with animals, to convey the unattainability of happiness.

Isolation and Loneliness

Analyze Steinbeck's portrayal of isolation and loneliness in the characters' lives, and how it reinforces the idea that happiness is out of reach.

Broken Dreams

Explore the concept of broken dreams in Of Mice and Men and how it contributes to the notion that happiness is unattainable.

Language and Descriptions

Examine Steinbeck's use of language and descriptions to create a bleak atmosphere and convey the idea that happiness is not within reach.

Power Dynamics

Discuss the power dynamics between characters and how they hinder the attainment of happiness.

Conclusion

Summarize the main points discussed and reiterate how Steinbeck's use of language suggests that happiness will not be attainable in Of Mice and Men.

Discussion

Engage students in a discussion about their interpretations of the text and how Steinbeck's language impacted their understanding of the theme.

Reflection and Application

Have students reflect on how the theme of unattainable happiness is relevant in their own lives or in other literary works they have encountered.

Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.

Have students enter three things they learned in this lesson. With this they can indicate their own learning efficiency of this lesson.

Write down 2 things you want to know more about.

Here, students enter two things they would like to know more about. This not only increases involvement, but also gives them more ownership.

Ask 1 question about something you haven't quite understood yet.

The students indicate here (in question form) with which part of the material they still have difficulty. For the teacher, this not only provides insight into the extent to which the students understand/master the material, but also a good starting point for the next lesson.