IndexThe struggle to care for LennieSelf-preservation and the fear of consequencesMercy and a tragic endConclusionFrom the first pages of John Steinbeck's classic novel, Of Mice and Men, it is clear that the bond between George and Lennie is profound and unique. However, this bond is tested when George is faced with a difficult decision: whether or not to kill Lennie. In this essay we will delve into the reasons behind George's actions and explore the moral implications of his decision. Ultimately, we will argue that George's choice to shoot Lennie was driven by a combination of mercy, self-preservation, and a desire to spare Lennie from a more tragic fate at the hands of others. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay The Struggle to Care for Lennie One of the main reasons George decided to shoot Lennie stems from the immense responsibility he feels for his friend's well-being. Throughout the novel, it becomes apparent that Lennie possesses a childlike innocence and limited mental capacity, which often lands him in situations where he unintentionally causes harm. George realizes that Lennie's actions, while unintentional, can have serious consequences, as evidenced by the incident in Weed where Lennie's inappropriate touching led to terrible results. In addition to the potential harm Lennie causes to others, George also recognizes the immense burden of constantly looking after him. This burden is further amplified by the hardships of the Great Depression era, where resources are scarce and survival is a constant struggle. As George himself states, "I ain't got nobody. I've seen the boys hanging out on the ranches alone. That's no good" (Steinbeck 13). George's decision to shoot Lennie can be seen as an act of mercy, sparing his friend a life of constant hardship and potential mistreatment. Self-Preservation and Fear of Consequences While George's love for Lennie is evident, self-preservation is another significant factor driving his decision to shoot him. Throughout the novel, it is clear that George recognizes the potential consequences of Lennie's actions, both for himself and for Lennie. When Lennie accidentally kills Curley's wife, George realizes that their dream of owning a farm has been shattered and their lives will be changed forever. Furthermore, George is aware that Lennie's actions will likely lead to his capture or death at the hands of others. This is foreshadowed earlier in the novel, when Candy's old dog is put down, as Carlson suggests: "I have no teeth, I'm almost blind, I can't eat. Candy, you can have all the puppies you want. I've had him for so long. I've had him since he was a puppy. I herded sheep with him" (Steinbeck 45). In this case, Carlson's insistence on shooting the dog reflects the harsh reality of survival in a world where the weak are discarded. George's decision to shoot Lennie can therefore be seen as an attempt to protect his friend from a similar fate. Mercy and a Tragic End Although George's decision to shoot Lennie may seem harsh, it is ultimately an act of mercy. Throughout the novel, Lennie's actions are driven by his inability to understand the consequences of his actions and the harm he unintentionally causes. When George realizes that Lennie's death is inevitable, he takes it upon himself to ensure that his friend's end is quick and relatively painless. Furthermore, George's choice to shoot Lennie can be seen as a way to spare him from a more tragic fate. With the, 1993.