Of Mice and Men: Characterization Quiz

Which of the following is an example of direct characterization from the first five chapters?

• George telling Slim about Lennie's love for soft things

• The description of Lennie's physical appearance when he first appears

• Lennie's actions when he tries to hide the puppy

• The way Lennie speaks to George

Answer explanation

The description of Lennie's physical appearance when he first appears directly characterizes him by providing details about his looks.

How does Steinbeck use indirect characterization to show George's feelings about Lennie?

• By describing George's facial expressions when he looks at Lennie

• Through George's direct statements about Lennie

• By detailing George's actions, such as cleaning up after Lennie's mistakes

• Through the narrator's direct comments about George's feelings

Answer explanation

The correct choice is 'By detailing George's actions, such as cleaning up after Lennie's mistakes' because it shows how George feels about Lennie through his behavior and actions.

What can be inferred about Slim's character through his dialogue with other characters?

• He is not well-respected by the other characters

• He is considered a leader and a voice of reason

• He does not understand the bond between George and Lennie

• He is indifferent to the struggles of others

Answer explanation

Slim's character is considered a leader and a voice of reason based on his dialogue with other characters.

Which of the following is an example of indirect characterization of Curley's wife?

• The description of her appearance when she first enters the bunkhouse

• Her actions when she is looking for Curley but flirts with the other men

• Characters directly stating their opinions about her

• The narrator describing her as lonely

Answer explanation

The correct choice is her actions when she is looking for Curley but flirts with the other men, as it indirectly reveals her character through her behavior.

How does Steinbeck use Lennie's actions to indirectly characterize him?

• By showing his strength when he works

• Through his interactions with animals

• By detailing his conversations with George

• Through the direct description of his mental capabilities

Answer explanation

Steinbeck indirectly characterizes Lennie through his interactions with animals, revealing his gentle nature and lack of understanding of his own strength.

What character trait of George can be inferred from his dialogue throughout the first five chapters?

• Impatience

• Indifference

• Caring

• Hostility

Answer explanation

George's dialogue in the first five chapters shows his caring nature, as he consistently demonstrates concern and empathy towards others.

Which of the following contrasts between direct and indirect characterization is true according to the first five chapters?

• Direct characterization reveals more about a character's inner thoughts than indirect characterization.

• Indirect characterization is only shown through characters' actions, while direct characterization includes dialogue.

• Direct characterization tells the audience about the character, while indirect characterization shows the character through actions, dialogue, and reactions.

• Indirect characterization is not used by Steinbeck in the novel.

Answer explanation

The correct choice is 'Direct characterization tells the audience about the character, while indirect characterization shows the character through actions, dialogue, and reactions.' This is true according to the first five chapters.

What does Curley's constant questioning about his wife's whereabouts indirectly suggest about his character?

• Confidence

• Trustworthiness

• Insecurity

• Indifference

Answer explanation

Curley's constant questioning about his wife's whereabouts indirectly suggests his insecurity, as he is constantly seeking reassurance and validation.

How does the dialogue between Candy and George in Chapter 3 indirectly characterize Candy?

• As manipulative

• As hopeful

• As indifferent

• As aggressive

Answer explanation

The dialogue between Candy and George in Chapter 3 shows Candy's hopefulness, as she expresses optimism about the possibility of joining George and Lennie on their dream farm.

What can be inferred about Crooks through his indirect characterization in the text?

• He is content with his life on the ranch

• He resents being isolated from the other men

• He does not care about Lennie and George's dream

• He is the wealthiest worker on the ranch

Answer explanation

Through indirect characterization, it can be inferred that Crooks resents being isolated from the other men, as he is shown to be lonely and longing for companionship.