English literature (Crooks notes)

Summary

Crooks is the only black man on the ranch and experiences a significant amount of racism and discrimination. He is lonely and isolated, making him resentdful amd bitter towards the other charecters, as seen when he tries to torment Lennie about George abandoning him.

Crooks is briefly won over by Lennie's friendliness and enjoys having someone to talk to, even feeling some hope that he could be involved in the dream of the farm. However, Curley's wife reminds him of the prejudice against him, making him return to his protective shell and dismiss the idea of the dream altogether.

Themes

Bitter

How is Crooks like this?

Crooks takes pleasure in mentally hurting Lennie because he has been hurt so many people before.

Evidence

"Crooks' face lighted with pleasure at the torture."

Analysis

Crooks clearly enjoys tourmenting Lennie (by suggesting that George will abandon him). His cruelty towards Lennie, who…