'There was a gravity in his manner and a quiet so profound that all talk stopped when he spoke. His authority was so great that his word was taken on any subject, be it politics or love.'
Just in this brief description of Slim's manner the sense is given that he is a good man. He is quiet, gaining his respect not from being the loudest or the strongest, but from being a good man with quiet wisdom. The second sentence of this quotation also emphasizes the way others see him -- he is trusted, seen as a source of authority.
'His ear heard more than was said to him, and his slow speech had overtones not of thought, but of understanding beyond thought. His hands, large and lean, were as delicate in their actions as those of a temple dancer.'
These two sentences convey the idea that Slim is an intuitive man, good with human emotions and feelings. He seems to be a good listener, and, though he works on a ranch, he seems to be a gentle, empathetic man.
'Slim looked approvingly at George for having given the compliment.'
This quotation shows what Slim respects in a man -- a kindness, a sense of fairness that is present in George, especially when he compliments Lennie. Slim is not the kind of man who takes delight in mocking others, or putting them down, but instead tries to build them up and recognize their good qualities.
"He glanced coldly at George and Lennie. His arms gradually bent at the elbows and his hands curled into fists. He stiffened and went into a slight crouch."
ReplyDeleteThis quote about Curley shows that he is very judgemental, and immediately becomes defensive upon seeing George and Lennie--for the very first time. They are new, they are foreign, and they pose a threat to him.
"His glance was at once calculating and pugnacious."
This quote about Curley further justifies the above: he is quick, and eager to fight, and very defensive. He is also calculating, or scheming.
Candy says, "Seems like Curley ain't givin' nobody a chance."
This quote is regarding Curley's inclination to fighting 'big guys'--when he wins, he's a cool guy, and when he loses, everyone tells the big guy to go pick on someone their own size. It proves how calculating and scheming he is, and how he doesn't play by the rules, and isn't fair. It also further explains his immediate tension at the sight of Lennie: he likes to fight 'big guys', and Lennie's a prime target.