Final answer:
In 'Of Mice and Men,' symbolism is used extensively, with Lennie's puppy symbolizing the fragility of dreams, the farm dream representing hope and the American Dream, and Candy's old dog depicting society's cruel attitude towards the aged and disabled.
Step-by-step explanation:
Symbolism is a significant element in John Steinbeck's novel Of Mice and Men, where various characters and elements within the narrative are used to represent broader themes and social issues. For example, one of the most prominent symbols is the character of Lennie's puppy, which represents the fragility of dreams in the harsh reality of the world the characters inhabit. The puppy is also a reflection of Lennie himself, innocent and unaware of his own strength, ultimately leading to tragedy. Another symbol is the farm that George and Lennie dream of owning. This little piece of land symbolizes hope and the American Dream. It is a tangible representation of a better life that seems always just out of reach, highlighting the characters' constant struggle against fate and circumstance. The character of Candy's old dog is a further example of Steinbeck's use of symbolism. The dog represents the merciless nature of age and the treatment of those who are no longer deemed useful by society. Its death foreshadows later events in the novel and stands as a motif for the era's harsh attitudes toward the elderly and the disabled.