Discuss the significance of the first chapter in Of Mice And Men.

I think that the first chapter is fairly important in
Steinbeck's novella.  Its basic elements are present in the opening.  The introduction
of the Salinas Valley will prove to be important at the end of the novel, and it is
something we see here.  The most important elements out of the first chapter would be
the full introduction of Lennie and George.  There is much present between them that
helps to establish how both are seen throughout the novel.  The fact that Lennie depends
on George and how George is the "brains" between them is extremely important.  In
something as small as Lennie drinking water from the pond or in how Lennie imitates
George and how he lies down are both reflective of this.  At the same time, the dialogue
between them helps to bring out repetitive themes or ideas that will present themselves
repeatedly in the course of the novel.  The dream that both men share of owning their
own farm is something seen, something that will come to occupy so much importance
between them.  Also, the fact that George gets angry at Lennie, who for his part
pretends to leave if that alleviates George's tension.  These elements are brought out
in the first chapter.