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write research paper on Why Of Mice and Men book banned
Introduction:
"Of Mice and Men" is a classic novel written by John Steinbeck in 1937. Despite its literary merit and
popularity, the book has been banned and challenged in several schools and libraries due to its themes
of violence, strong language, and sexual content. This paper aims to examine the reasons why "Of Mice
and Men" has been banned and the impact of censorship on the understanding and appreciation of the
novel.
Reasons for Banning:
One of the primary reasons for the banning of "Of Mice and Men" is its depiction of violence. The novel
includes several scenes of physical violence, including the killing of a puppy by one of the main
characters and the eventual murder of another character. These scenes have been deemed
inappropriate for younger audiences and have been challenged in schools and libraries.
Another reason for the ban is the use of strong language in the novel. "Of Mice and Men" contains
several instances of racial slurs and vulgar language that some consider offensive. The use of such
language has led to concerns about the book's impact on the attitudes and beliefs of young readers.
Additionally, the novel contains sexual content, including references to prostitution and sexual
relationships. These themes have also been considered inappropriate for younger readers and have
contributed to the book's ban in some schools and libraries.
Impact of Censorship:
The censorship of "Of Mice and Men" has a significant impact on the understanding and appreciation of
the novel. Banning the book deprives students and readers of the opportunity to engage with important
themes such as the nature of violence, the effects of prejudice, and the struggles of the working class
during the Great Depression.
Moreover, censorship can also limit the ability of students and readers to engage in critical thinking and
analysis, as they are not exposed to diverse perspectives and ideas. This can have a negative impact on
the development of important skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and empathy.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, "Of Mice and Men" has been banned due to its themes of violence, strong language, and
sexual content. While these themes may not be appropriate for all audiences, censorship can limit the
understanding and appreciation of the novel and its important themes. It is crucial to encourage an
open and inclusive discussion of these issues, rather than censoring works of literature that tackle these
important topics.