George's Act Was Justified

The Great Depression was a severe economic catastrophe that greatly destroyed America in the 1930’s, stripping millions of their once stable and familiar lives and leaving America damaged. In John Steinbeck’s novel, Of Mice and Men, the story concludes with the main character George shooting his closest friend Lennie, who is mentally disabled. Although many readers believe George’s act was not justified because George had no right to cut Lennie’s life short, his act was justified because the outcome of letting him live would have been grave either way; either Curley shooting Lennie, or Lennie and George having to run away, only for this problematic cycle to repeat. Many readers believe George shooting Lennie was a selfish act, and was a way

He knew Curley would end up killing Lennie, as Curley claimed earlier, “I’m gonna shoot the guts outta that big bastard myself, even if I only got one hand. I’m gonna get ‘im.” (Steinbeck 98). If George shot Lennie himself rather than Curley, some readers believe this would possibly make the others more accepting of George, seeing that George is taking their side. It could also mean protecting himself, being sure that he would keep his job rather than have Lennie ruin his chances once again. Alternatively, it is more likely that George shot Lennie for an entirely different reason. Earlier in the novella, a similar situation had happened with Candy and his dog. Candy and his dog are parallel to George and Lennie. Like Lennie, Candy’s dog was a burden to have around, though was loyal and kept Candy company. Eventually, it was decided to put the dog out of its misery, and the dog was shot by Carlson. Candy later tells George, “I oughtta of shot that dog myself, George. I shouldn’t oughtta of let no stranger shoot my dog.” (Steinbeck 61). Carlson was the one who shot the dog, showing no heart when he ended the dog's life. What Candy said left a lasting effect on George, foreshadowing his decision to end Lennie’s misery himself, rather than have him die a brutal, horrific, and hateful death. Lennie is a danger to

Unfortunately, George did not have any choice. Lennie was a danger to society, as proven multiple times like the time he killed Curley’s wife. Although he has good intention, he is perilous and unpredictable when it comes to soft objects such as hair or a dress. Over time, George has learned this and has come to terms that Lennie is indeed a hazard to himself and others. He knew that the only other option besides killing Lennie would either run away and continue this toxic cycle or to put Lennie into an inhumane mental institution. He makes the decision it would be best for Lennie and society that he ended his life