Explore the relationship between George and Lennie, with careful reference to the first two chapters.

In the opening two chapters of the novel, we are introduced to the idea of Lennie idolising George. Lennie has been seen to mimic George’s actions. When Lennie pulled his ruffled hat down he did it to look like ‘the way George’s hat was.’ This suggests that Lennie respects George and this also enhances the reader’s understanding of their relationship, which Lennie sums up to George as ‘I got you to look after me and you got me to look after you.’ This contrasts with the reader’s perspective of their relationship being one sided, with Lennie relying on George. It also represents the rhythmic way George tells Lennie about tending the rabbits, so that he can remember the story. A further example of this is that George comes across as a close relative to Lennie. ‘Good boy! That’s fine, Lennie! Maybe you’re gettin’ better.’ This portrays the father-like image because he uses encouraging words that a father would use to praise his son.
George is very protective over Lennie and feels responsible for him. George gives Lennie advice on what to do at the ranch 'if he sees ya work before he hears ya talk, we're set'. This portrays the idea that George does not want Lennie to get hurt as he gives advice to him. It also illustrates that they have a close relationship because men did not travel around together as it minimised the chance of them both getting a job so Lennie must mean