Of Mice and Men Archetypes

Lennie	Wise fool – mentally inferior but able to reveal the best and worst of others. He often speaks honestly where others won’t.
Curley’s Wife	Fallen woman – female character who brings sin and death to the worlds. She’s also symbolic of women everywhere who are repressed by male-centered societies.
Curley	“Little man” – feels inferior and tries to overcompensate by flaunting his power and status.
Crooks	Victim/unwanted – is undervalued and discriminated against
Candy	Victim/unwanted – is undervalued and discriminated against
Slim	Hero – one of the few who, in their wisdom and strength, seem larger than life.
George	Everyman – the normal, average person who is found everywhere. Most readers will identify with him.