Life Lessons from Steinbeck

Readers have always found Steinbeck’s novels to be meaningful in that they teach us life lessons. What social message or lesson did you find laced throughout this novel and what incident, character or quote helped generate this message in your mind?

Social Darwinism

Critics claim that the theme of Social Darwinism or the concept of the “survival of the Fittest” exists throughout this novella. Where do you find evidence of the theme or message of "Social Darwinism" within this novel?

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If you are unsure as to what Social Darwinism is, click on the hyperlinked term below:
Resource below:
(..."only the fittest organisms will prevail" (a view sometimes derided as "Social Darwinism." wikipedia.com)

American Dreamers!

Define the American Dream (on your own) then give an example and explain whom you believe best represents a success story of the "American Dream" and why?
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RESPONDERS:
- you may want to determine if you agree with the definition of the American Dream of someone else's post or add to it.
- Add to the information provided about the person / celebrity posted. Or better yet, disagree and explain why. )

Your Hopes and Dreams!

Where do you really want to be in five years? Practically speaking, where will you be living, will you have a wife/ husband? Will he or she have a paycheck too? Will you have just started a career or have been working on a promotion at this point? Will you have children? Will you have the same car or one at all? What will you be spending most of your money on? Traveling or any children? Going for another degree in college?

(RESPONDERS- May want to question these responses by others and their credibility? Or relate to them...)

Beat this caption!

"Seriously, I need to return this hairdryer!"