Of Mice and Men - Symbolism in Sports
English
Grade 8
8 questions
~16 mins
1 views0 downloads
About This Worksheet
A worksheet analyzing symbolism in Of Mice and Men, using sports as a thematic context for Grade 8 students.
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Of Mice and Men - Symbolism in Sports
Subject: EnglishGrade: Grade 8
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Date:
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Untitled Worksheet
Grade Grade 8
A
Scene Summary and Context
In John Steinbeck's novel, Of Mice and Men, the setting often mirrors the characters' struggles and aspirations, much like a sports season reflecting teamwork, competition, and personal ambition. The story takes place during the Great Depression, where characters like Lennie and George navigate a world of hard labor and fleeting dreams, similar to athletes striving for victory amid setbacks. Steinbeck employs powerful symbolism, such as the dream of owning a farm, which can be likened to a team aiming for the championship, with hopes and setbacks intertwined. For example, the recurring motif of the 'bespectacled puppy' symbolizes innocence and loss, much like a promising rookie whose potential is cut short. The narrative uses imagery of the 'ball' being thrown or missed, representing chance, failure, and the pursuit of success. These symbols serve to deepen the themes of friendship, hardship, and aspiration, all within the framework of a competitive, goal-oriented environment comparable to sports.
B
Questions
Answer the following questions based on the scene summary and context guide.
1.
What is the main symbolic object related to dreams in Of Mice and Men, and how can it be compared to a sports goal?
[2 marks]2.
Identify a metaphor used in the summary that links the characters' aspirations to a sports scenario.
[2 marks]3.
Which imagery in the summary represents chance and failure, and how does this relate to sports?
[2 marks]4.
Explain how Steinbeck's use of symbolism and imagery contributes to the theme of aspiration, using a sports analogy.
[4 marks]5.
What technique is used when describing the puppy as 'bespectacled,' and what does this symbolize?
Aa) Metaphor
Bb) Personification
Cc) Symbolism
Dd) Irony
6.
Create a brief analogy comparing Lennie's attachment to the puppy with a sports player's attachment to a team or mascot. Include at least two points.
[4 marks]7.
Identify and describe the literary device in the phrase 'the ball being thrown or missed.' How does it enhance the understanding of the story's theme?
[2 marks]8.
Write a creative paragraph imagining a scene where the main characters are playing a sport. Use symbolism to express their hopes and failures.
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Details
- Created
- 12/31/2025
- Updated
- 12/31/2025
- Type
- worksheet