Chapter 4 in Of Mice and Man, paints a very realistic portrait of racism in the 1930s. Discuss at least two ways in which racism is explored in this chapter. Include quotes and your own analysis of key moments in this chapter that clearly demonstrate the racism that existed in the American 1930s. What do readers understand about racism as a result of reading this chapter?
In chapter four in Of Mice and Men, we meet the black stable buck, Crooks. In some ways the racism is subtle but in others it is very clear that the one making fun of Crooks' skin color are trying to get under his skin. One way racism is evident is the fact that the stable buck has his own room next to the barn. Nowadays, we see this as a great opportunity for privacy, but in this time this is segregation: keeping the blacks separated from the whites. Crooks doesn't stay on the topic of his room for long, as if it does affect him.
Another way of showing racism is the way thar other people interact with Crooks. Curley's wife is a good example: "She turned on him in scorn. 'Listen, nigger,' she said. "You know what I can do to you if you open your trap?'
Crooks stared hopelessly at her, and then he sat down on his bunk and drew into himself.
She closed on him. 'You know what I could do?'
Crooks seemed to grow smaller, and he pressed himself against the wall. 'Yes, ma'am.'
'Well, you keep your place then, nigger. I could get you strung up on a tree so easy it ain't even funny.'" (Steinbeck, 80-81). Crooks is treated like dirt under her shoe and he cannot do anything about this.
As a result of reading this chapter the readers can develop an understanding that racism is wrong and unjust. No one ever wants to be treated like Crooks is in Of Mice and Men and no one ever should. Readers can also understand that it is wrong to treat others this way, no matter their gender, race, religion, sexuality, etc. This was a way for Steinbeck to show his readers about treating people with respect no matter who or what they are.
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