Why are Alternative Endings appealing?
Sometimes the stories that we, the reader, become engrossed in end in a way that leaves us dissatisfied. We may have become attached to a character throughout the novel and want their lives to conclude in a certain way. We might have thoroughly disliked someone in the narrative and secretly hoped that they got an ending that they deserved. Think back to a time when you have read a book or watched a movie and thought that it could have ended in a better way.
Writers on the other hand, write stories to incite us to think. This may mean that the ending they choose may be more unpleasant but it will also cause you to wonder why. Here is where some interesting discussions can take place and where hearing someone else's opinion might add to your understanding of the story and the characters within it. This may also lead to deeper discussions of life and society on a greater scale.
Now that we have finished reading Of Mice and Men, please consider the following questions and then post your responses in the comment section below. Ms.Cavaliere's class in Merritt,B.C will respond to your posts soon after.
Choose two or more questions to respond to. Please use textual evidence to support your thinking.
Do you think Lennie had to be shot? What were some other alternatives? What would have happened to Lennie if George hadn't shot him? Why do you think George killed Lennie himself instead of letting the men do it? Do you think George was justified in killing Lennie?
