george kills Lennie
George ended up traveling with Lennie because Lennie's Aunt Clara, who had cared for him before, had passed away. George promised Aunt Clara that he would look after Lennie, so he felt responsible for him and chose to stay by his side.
Lennie copies George by imitating his actions and words, often repeating phrases or behaviors that he sees George do. He looks up to George and tries to emulate him as a way of showing his admiration and affection for his friend.
George tells Lennie to fight back and defend himself if Curley hits him. George wants Lennie to stand up for himself and not allow others to take advantage of him.
George is Lennie's best friend and caretaker in John Steinbeck's novel "Of Mice and Men." George is significant to Lennie because he takes care of him, protects him, and provides him with guidance in a world that often misunderstands Lennie's mental limitations. George's presence in Lennie's life represents companionship and hope amidst their struggles.
Lennie says he will go live in a cave if George gets fed up with him and does not want him around anymore.
George says this because he knows that Lennie is mentally challenged and cannot take care of himself. He believes that Lennie would be a danger to himself and likely end up in trouble without supervision. Additionally, George feels a sense of responsibility for Lennie's well-being, as they have been companions for a long time.
George doesn't help Lennie in the fight because he knows that Lennie is strong and can handle himself. George also wants Lennie to learn to stand up for himself and not rely on George for everything. Additionally, stepping in may escalate the situation and make things worse.
George tells Lennie to hide in the brush by the river if he gets into trouble and to wait for George to come find him.
The boss was suspicious because he thought George was trying to cover up for Lennie's lack of intelligence or understanding. He may have also questioned George's control over Lennie and their relationship dynamic.
Crooks tells Lennie that if George doesn't return, Lennie will be sent to an asylum or locked up because he is too "dumb" to take care of himself.
Curley thinks that Lennie was laughing at him (when he wasn't) and he has been wanting to pick a fight with Lennie because he dislikes people taller than him because he isn't very tall himself.
Lennie looks up to George and sees him as a role model and caretaker. Imitating George's actions could be a way for Lennie to feel connected to him and to learn how to navigate the world. It also provides Lennie with a sense of comfort and security by emulating someone he trusts.