Final answer:
Lennie and George dream of owning a farm and living independently, which symbolizes their desire for self-sufficiency and stability in contrast to the unpredictable opportunities of their era.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the novel "Of Mice and Men," Lennie and George's hopes and dreams revolve around owning a farm and living independently. This dream is a powerful theme throughout the story, encapsulating the desire for freedom and the ability to live off the land. Their vision is to have a small piece of property where they can raise crops and livestock, create a sustainable life, and, most importantly, be their own bosses. This was a common aspiration among many workers during the time period, reflecting a widespread societal yearning for stability and self-reliance.
The historical background provided from the era signals the hardships faced by many during westward expansion, where small farms struggled, and others sought quick riches through mining and cattle ranching. Lennie and George's dream offers a contrast to this reality, a more stable and idyllic alternative to the harsh and uncertain prospects of their contemporaries. Their hope lies in the possibility of a secure and peaceful future, a stark difference from the cutthroat competition and unpredictability of mining or the labor-intensive work as migrant farmers or ranch hands on someone else's land.