Can you tell me why John Steinbeck named the book of mice and men? ?

Question

Can you tell me why John Steinbeck named the book of mice and men? ?

Answer 1

Diana,

I would venture to say that it was probably because Lenny carried a dead mouse in his pocket. He was so enthused at having a friend and taking care of animals (remember the rabbits and the farm they were going to by in their fantasy?) Lenny was going to take care of the rabbits.

The 'men' part was that of his Lenny's brother. It could also be that Lenny was pretty powerful in body, while his brother was the smart one. Remember when Lenny hurt the boxer's hand? He was mild at times, but could also be a major threat.

I may be way off on this, I don't know. It's what I would put down if I had to do it for an assignment. It may not be right on but I believe it's mighty close.

PJ M

Answer 2

PJ has some cool ideas.  Also, the title is a quote from this poem by Robert Burns:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/To_a_Mouse

Answer 3

Burns poem. Take note, especially, of the line

"The best laid schemes o' Mice an' Men,

Gang aft agley"

Which commonly translates from the scots to "the best laid plans of mice and men are often go awry".

The poem is about how a farmer dragging his plough unwittingly destroys the carefully laid out life of the mouse and how this reflects on our own fates. When you consider the characters and plot of the novel holding this in mind, it helps shape its meaning.