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  • Essay / The failure of Curley's wife's American dream

    Curley's wife, a character in John Steinbeck's short story Of Mice and Men, dreams of becoming a glamorous Hollywood star. However, his dream is ultimately destroyed due to various circumstances. This essay will explore how Curley's wife's dream was shattered by her limited opportunities, societal expectations, and the oppressive environment of the ranch. Analyzing these factors, it becomes clear that Curley's wife's American dream was unattainable, leaving her trapped and isolated. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay Topic Sentence: Curley's wife's limited opportunities prevented her from pursuing her American dream. Curley's wife's dream of becoming a Hollywood star was severely limited by her circumstances. . As the only woman on the ranch, she faced isolation and was denied the same opportunities as her male counterparts. Throughout the short story, Curley's wife expresses her frustration at being "stuck on this ranch" (Steinbeck 89). His dream of breaking out of the confines of the ranch and pursuing a career in show business was a constant reminder of his unfulfilled aspirations. However, the lack of support and opportunities available to her ultimately dashed her dream. Additionally, Curley's wife's lack of action and control over her own life contributed to the failure of his American dream. She is depicted as a possession of her husband, Curley, and is referred to as "Curley's Wife" rather than her own name. This lack of individual identity further demonstrates one's limited opportunities to pursue one's dreams. She admits to Lennie, “I could have made something of myself” (Steinbeck 89), revealing her desire for independence and personal fulfillment. Topic Sentence: Societal expectations played a large role in destroying Curley's wife's dream. Societal Expectations Placed The measures imposed on women in the 1930s were very restrictive, and Curley's wife was no exception. As a woman, she was expected to conform to traditional gender roles and serve as a wife and mother. However, her dreams of becoming a Hollywood star defied these expectations, leading to her being called a "tart" or a "tramp" by the men on the ranch. Steinbeck depicts the harsh judgment and prejudice that Curley's wife faces, highlighting the societal barriers that prevent her from pursuing her dreams. Additionally, the lack of support and understanding from those around him further contributed to the failure of Curley's wife's dream. The men on the ranch reject her aspirations, seeing her only as a sex object rather than an ambitious person. This rejection of her dreams reinforces the idea that society was unwilling to accept or support a woman who sought independence and success outside of the traditional roles assigned to her. Topic Sentence: The oppressive environment of the ranch ultimately destroyed Curley's wife's dream. Of Mice and Men is characterized by its oppressive and suffocating atmosphere, which further contributes to the destruction of Curley's wife's dream. The constant presence of men who view her as a sexual object creates a hostile environment for her. She is constantly reminded of her status as the only woman on the ranch, reinforcing her feelings of isolation and helplessness. Additionally, the lack of companionship and emotional connection exacerbates Curley's wife's dissatisfaction with his life. She mentions to Lennie, “I never talk to anyone” (Steinbeck 87), emphasizing the loneliness she experiences. Lack of supportive relationships and, 1993.