Allusions to Of Mice and Men
Great works of literature can leave lasting impressions and timeless themes that influence society for generations. Merry Melodies, the creator of Looney Tunes, uses classic works of literature to enhance the theme of their cartoons. One piece of literature that is often used in Looney Tunes is John Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men. The above cartoon clip Hoppy Go -Lucky is a excellent example of a cartoon allusion to Steinbeck's work. Primarily, the character "Benny" is an exemplary allusion to Steinbeck's novel through his mannerisms, appearance and incessant pursuit of a mouse.
Benny's mannerisms as depicted in the above video represent him to be a perfect parallel to the character Lennie in Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men. Benny appears to lack understanding and wit, relying on his friend "George" (Sylvester) to interpret the world for him. Steinbeck's character Lennie is largely dependent on his best friend (George) and relies on him to make all decisions. As with Lennie, Benny's speech indicates there is a crucial lack of understanding about the real world. Looney Tunes makes Benny's lack of intelligence a joke by having Benny state " But I can't say Sylvester, George" emphasizing that the giant cat is not even aware that he said "Sylvester" correctly. In Lennie's case George often has Lennie repeat things to remember them later. In the first chapter George quizzes Lennie to check if he had remembered what he was to do the next day:
"What you gonna say tomorrow when the boss asks you questions?
...I...I ain't gonna say a word.
Good boy! That's fine, Lennie! Maybe you're gettin' better." (Steinbeck,15)
Benny's lack of intelligence clearly parallels Lennie's lack of understanding and is dependence on "George" to be his filter and translator of reality. Both characters are equally dependent on their "Georges" to protect them and think for them. The "Georges" are often depicted as being responsible for their helpless companions, both Benny/Lennie is often depicted with the intellect of a child, and an equal fascination.
1. Topic Sentence
2. Segue-Transition
3. Proof -from both the video and the text
4. INTERPRET
Conclusion-tie all ideas together