The tragic conclusion of John Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men sees George Milton make the agonizing decision to kill his companion, Lennie Small, out of mercy and protection.
The Final Moments
At the very end of the novel, Lennie is found by George in a secluded spot by the river, a place they had designated as a safe meeting point in case of trouble. Lennie, unaware of the dire consequences of his latest actions, is dreaming aloud of their future together—the idyllic farm they hope to own, complete with rabbits for him to tend.
While Lennie is standing with his back to George, fully immersed in his hopeful vision, George pulls out a stolen Luger pistol. With a heavy heart, George shoots Lennie in the back of the head.
George's Ultimate Act of Mercy
George's decision to end Lennie's life is a profound act driven by desperation and compassion. His motivations are clear:
- Prevention of a More Brutal Death: George knows that Lennie, due to his accidental killing of Curley's wife, would face a brutal and painful execution by the authorities.
- Protection from Lynch Mob: Furthermore, George understands that the enraged men, led by Curley, are on a manhunt to find and kill Lennie themselves, likely in a violent and vengeful manner.
- Preservation of Dignity: By taking Lennie's life himself, George spares his friend from facing the fear, confusion, and pain of an execution or a lynching, allowing him to die peacefully while still imagining their shared dream. It is his final, heartbreaking act of care.
The Weight of Choice
George's action signifies the crushing defeat of their shared dream and the harsh realities of their existence. It's a moment of profound sacrifice, where love and friendship compel him to commit an unthinkable act to protect Lennie from a far worse fate.
| Character | Final Act | Underlying Motivation |
|---|---|---|
| Lennie Small | Dreaming of their farm | Innocent, unaware of his impending fate |
| George Milton | Shoots Lennie | Compassion, protection from a worse end |
This somber ending underscores the novel's themes of shattered dreams, the fragility of life, and the profound bonds of companionship in a world that offers little hope for the marginalized.
