Curley Flashcards
As the Boss’s son, he represents capitalist power in American society . Steinbeck uses Curley to show how powerful capitalists abuse their power over workers, which was particularly relevant during the Great Depression when many were unemployed.
“you answer when you’re spoke to”
Curley represents individualism in American society and the suspicion of men who support each other.
“Oh, so it’s that way”
He represents the toxic masculinity and violence at the heart of American society.
“hands closed into fists”
In his attitude towards his wife, Steinbeck uses Curley to demonstrate the sexism and misogyny in society at the time.
Curley’s wife- “Can’t talk to nobody else but Curley else he gets mad”