John Steinbeck’s novel “Of Mice and Men” contains several characters that symbolize different aspects of life. One of these characters is Candy’s old dog, a symbol of the vulnerability of old age and mortality.
The Dog's Backstory
Candy is an elderly man who works as a ranch handyman on the ranch where George and Lennie have come to work. Candy has an old, smelly, and useless dog that follows him everywhere. The dog’s age and condition are indicative of Candy’s own mortality, as well as the vulnerability of old age. Candy’s dog has been with him for many years, but he knows that the dog is aging and will soon have to be put down. He is reluctant to do it, as the dog is a faithful companion, but he knows that it is the humane thing to do.
The Dog's Symbolism
Candy’s dog symbolizes the fragility of life. It is a reminder that no matter how hard we try, we cannot stop the march of time. The dog is a symbol of mortality, and a reminder that we all must face the inevitability of death. The dog also symbolizes the loneliness and isolation that some people feel in their old age. Candy is aware that his dog will soon have to be put down, and he is filled with sadness and regret. He knows that he will be alone again, and he dreads the thought of it.
Candy's Relationship With His Dog
Candy’s relationship with his dog is a testament to his loyalty and compassion. He is willing to put the dog down out of love, rather than out of a desire to get rid of it. He knows that it is the kindest thing to do, and he is willing to sacrifice his own comfort for the sake of the dog. His relationship with the dog is a reminder of the power of love and kindness, even in the face of death.
The Dog's Fate
Candy’s dog is eventually put down, and the event serves as a reminder of the fragility of life. The scene is a somber one, but it is also a reminder that death is a part of life and we must learn to accept it. It is a reminder that life is precious and we must make the best of it while we can.
Conclusion
Candy’s dog serves as a powerful symbol in John Steinbeck’s novel “Of Mice and Men”. It is a reminder of the fragility of life and the inevitability of death. It is also a reminder of the power of love and compassion in the face of mortality. The fate of Candy’s dog serves as a reminder that life is precious and we must make the best of it while we can.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Candy's dog symbolize?
Candy’s dog symbolizes the fragility of life, the inevitability of death, and the power of love and compassion in the face of mortality.
How does Candy's dog serve as a reminder of mortality?
Candy’s dog serves as a reminder of mortality because it is an old, smelly, and useless dog that follows Candy everywhere. Its age and condition are indicative of Candy’s own mortality, as well as the vulnerability of old age.
How does Candy's dog symbolize loneliness?
Candy’s dog symbolizes loneliness because Candy is aware that his dog will soon have to be put down, and he is filled with sadness and regret. He knows that he will be alone again, and he dreads the thought of it.
What is the message behind Candy's dog?
The message behind Candy’s dog is that life is precious and we must make the best of it while we can. It is a reminder that no matter how hard we try, we cannot stop the march of time and death is a part of life that we must learn to accept.
What happens to Candy's dog?
Candy’s dog is eventually put down, and the event serves as a reminder of the fragility of life. The scene is a somber one, but it is also a reminder that death is a part of life and we must learn to accept it.
What does Candy's relationship with his dog tell us?
Candy’s relationship with his dog tells us that he is loyal and compassionate. He is willing to put the dog down out of love, rather than out of a desire to get rid of it. His relationship with the dog is a reminder of the power of love and kindness, even in the face of death.