Slim Flashcards
Slim says to George and Lennie ‘Hope you get on my team’
(Kindness)
This shows how Slim is inclusive and wants to work together to make friendships, which is why he is Steinbeck’s ideal citizen used to criticise individualism in the capitalist society.
‘Oh!Hello Crooks’
Backed up with ‘Come in and set a while’
(Kindness)
Slim calls Crooks by his name, whereas all of the ranch workers call him racial slurs, which shows how respectful and equal Slim is to everyone, no matter their race or gender.
When Curley’s Wife is dead he touches her ‘gently’
(kindness)
This verb shows how Slim is even respectful to women when they are dead. Different to the men in the misogynistic society.
‘You hadda, George. I swear you hadda’
(Kindness)
Slim comforts George after Lennie’s death, using repetition to reassure him. This shows Slim’s empathy — he doesn’t judge George, but understands his pain and offers forgiveness.
Slim is fair when he tells Curley to act as his ‘Han got caught in a machine’
(Moral Contrast To Curley)
Slim protects Lennie by covering up the truth after Lennie crushes Curley’s hand. The calm way Slim lies shows that he uses power for good, not revenge. Unlike Curley, who uses power to bully, Slim uses it to protect. Steinbeck shows that real authority isn’t about violence — it’s about doing what’s right.
‘Slim don’t need no high heeled boots’
(Moral Contrast To Curley)
Curley wears high-heeled boots to show he’s the boss, but Slim doesn’t need to prove his status. He’s respected for his character, not his position. This contrast shows how Slim earns respect naturally, while Curley forces it. Steinbeck uses this to show that true power comes from integrity, not intimidation.
‘Slim looked through George and beyond him’
(Moral Contrast To Curley)
This shows Slim’s deep understanding of people — almost like he can see into their souls. The phrase suggests he understands more than what’s said, hinting at his wisdom and emotional intelligence. Steinbeck presents Slim as someone who sees the truth in others, making him a moral compass in the story.
Slim was the ‘Prince of the ranch’
(Natural Leader)
This metaphor shows that Slim holds natural authority and is admired by everyone. The word “prince” suggests he has power and status, but not through force like Curley — rather through respect and dignity.
‘Slim’s opinions were law’
(Natural Leader)
This shows how Slim’s presence is almost god-like — his opinions are so respected, they’re treated as rules everyone must follow. Steinbeck presents Slim as a figure of justice and morality in a world full of injustice, suggesting that he is a rare source of fairness on the ranch.
Slim is described as
‘calm God-like eyes’
‘God almighty I never seen such a strong guy’
‘Temple Dancer’
(Natural Leader)
Steinbeck uses this religious semantic field to show how Slim is looked up to and a role model in society.
