The Ranch workers

Question 1

Describe Slim

Answer 1

Kind, respectful and compassionate
Attentive
Trusted; becomes a confidante to George
Progressive attitudes, yet pragmatic and realistic
Powerful: Imbued with ‘God-like’ omnipotence and sense of authority
‘Prince’ like and graceful like a ‘temple dancer’; majestic and skilled
Attuned to horses and has an affinity with them
Ageless

Question 2

Describe Whit

Answer 2

Sociable and friendly
Aspirational; impressed by the media and recognition
Frequents the brothel
Physically altered by his working role

Question 3

Describe Carlson

Answer 3

Callous; blood thirsty
Relishes others’ suffering
Insensitive and cruel

Question 4

what do these workers represent

Answer 4

Displacement and impermanency: transient existence due to employment migration
Many could not afford fares: hitched lifts/stole rides on trains/walked; came to be known as hobos
Nature of ranches and migrant labour fostered loneliness; individualism expected; impeded bonds, yet also restricted privacy
Competitive nature of employment market encouraged ruthlessness
Those in employment were fortunate
Low wages prevented self-improvement
Desperate desire for autonomy and self-governance (key to the American Dream)
Leisure- vacuous: drinking, magazines, visiting brothels, fighting… (ability to drink alcohol legally following the repeal of prohibition)