Of Mice and Men Name ________________________

Theme Discussion

1. What are some causes of violence? Do you think that violence is ever OK? Why do our court systems differentiate between juveniles and adults? Is it possible for someone not to comprehend the difference between right and wrong?

2. Define the word “boss”. What makes a good boss? What makes a bad boss? What determines whether someone has power over you? Discuss this issue in relation to migrant workers and others who may be dependent on their boss, not only for pay, but also for housing, food, and transportation. How can powerless people gain power?

3. How important is nature in your life? Do you enjoy being outdoors, in the mountains, woods, by a river or by the ocean? How do you feel? If you grew up in the city, do you think you would respond differently to nature? Describe some place you especially like to go if you are feeling sad or lonely, or if you want to think about something important.

Do you have a pet? How important is this relationship to you? What do you gain from this relationship? Have you ever had a pet die? How did you feel? Why do you think so many Americans have pets?

4. What makes a friend? What happens when you are actually the protector of your friend, because of illness or age, etc? How does this chance the relationship and your responsibility?

5. Discuss the reasons people may have, or choose, a solitary life. What does it mean to be lonely? What is the importance of home?

6. Have you ever been in an environment where you were the only male or female, or the only representative of your ethnic/racial group? How did you feel? Were you able to communicate or develop friendly relationships with the others? Are there students who are “outsiders” in your school? What makes them outsiders? Do you think being an “outsider” is a choice?

Homework: Write a poem about one of the themes that we discussed. We will share the poems on Friday.