5. What dream are George and Lennie working toward? Why do you think it is so important to them?

In John Steinbeck's novel "Of Mice and Men," George and Lennie are working toward the dream of owning their own piece of land. This dream represents their desire for independence, stability, and a better life, free from the hardships and uncertainties of being itinerant workers during the Great Depression. The importance of this dream to George and Lennie can be understood through several key points: 1. **Escape from Loneliness**: The dream of owning land symbolizes a refuge from the isolation and loneliness that many characters in the novel experience. For George and Lennie, it represents companionship and a sense of belonging. 2. **Hope and Aspiration**: Their dream serves as a source of hope in a bleak world. It motivates them to work hard and endure the challenges they face as migrant workers. The dream gives them a purpose and something to look forward to. 3. **Control Over Their Lives**: Owning land would provide them with control over their own lives, allowing them to make their own decisions and live according to their own rules, rather than being at the mercy of employers. 4. **Symbol of the American Dream**: Their aspiration reflects the broader theme of the American Dream, where individuals seek success and prosperity through hard work. It highlights the struggles of the working class during the Great Depression and the elusive nature of such dreams. Overall, the dream of owning land is crucial for George and Lennie as it embodies their hopes for a better future, a sense of security, and the fulfillment of their desires for friendship and belonging.