There are many important concepts explored in this novella (look over our list). Our job is to figure out what Steinbeck is trying to get readers to understand about these concepts. Through this story and its characters, he offers several insights into human nature, life, and society. What do YOU think is the most important lesson or theme that this story expresses?
One of the main themes in Chapter Six is social fitness, evidenced throughout the text with the treatment of Lenny, Candy, and even, Candy's dog. George's mercy killing of Lennie neatly parallels the events of Chapter Three, when Candy allowed Carlson to shoot his malodorous old dog. Steinbeck is even careful to involve the same Luger in each killing. Whereas the meek and passive Candy proved unable to do the job himself, George shows no such weakness. As has been proven beyond a reasonable doubt at this point, Lennie's lethal innocence is not compatible with the world. He cannot learn to change his ways - he cannot even understand why the "bad things" he has done are bad. The fate he would meet at Curley's (mutilated) hands - likely a drawn-out, vengeful lynching - is enough to convince George that his only real option is to make Lennie's death as quick and painless as possible.
Of Mice and Men
