Answer/ Explanation: In "Of Mice and Men," John Steinbeck conveys the theme of the human need for companionship and the struggle for a sense of belonging.
Throughout the novella, Steinbeck portrays the characters as lonely individuals who crave connection and acceptance. George and Lennie, the main characters, have a strong bond and rely on each other for companionship. Their dream of owning a piece of land together represents their desire for a place where they can belong and be free from the hardships of their transient lifestyle.
The theme of belonging is also evident in the other characters. Candy, an aging ranch worker, is isolated due to his disability and longs to be part of George and Lennie's dream. Crooks, the African-American stable buck, faces racial discrimination and is forced to live alone in the barn. He expresses his yearning for companionship when he reveals his desire to be included in George and Lennie's plan. Curley's wife, though married, feels isolated and seeks attention from the other men on the ranch, hoping to find a sense of belonging.
Steinbeck uses these characters to explore the universal human need for connection and belonging. He highlights the challenges and barriers that hinder individuals from attaining a sense of belonging, such as discrimination, disability, and societal norms. The loneliness experienced by the characters emphasizes the importance of human connection and the detrimental effects of isolation.
In summary, Steinbeck conveys the theme of belonging in "Of Mice and Men" by depicting the characters' longing for companionship and their struggle to find a place where they truly belong. The novella highlights the universal human need for connection and explores the challenges and barriers that individuals face in their quest for belonging.