Which author gave his character animalistic behavior and characteristics?

• A. Ernest Hemingway
• B. F. Scott Fitzgerald
• C. Eudora Welty
• D. John Steinbeck

Answer: (D)

Animalistic portrayal of a character is tested here. John Steinbeck uses Lennie in Of Mice and Men to give him animal-like strength, impulsive, instinct-driven behavior, and a childlike dependence on touch, with vivid animal imagery that highlights his vulnerability. This approach ties naturalistic observation to how he interacts with the world and with others, showing how instinct can shape actions and fate. In contrast, Hemingway’s characters embody stoic masculinity, Fitzgerald’s figures revolve around social ambition and disillusionment, and Welty’s stories focus on Southern life with symbolic detail rather than a central character defined by animal traits. Steinbeck’s clear use of animal imagery to define Lennie makes him the author who best gives his character animalistic behavior and characteristics.