What is the primary dream of the main characters in "Of Mice and Men"?

The primary dream of the main characters in "Of Mice and Men," George and Lennie, is to own a piece of land. This aspiration signifies their desire for independence, security, and a sense of belonging. Throughout the novel, the dream of owning their own farm serves as a crucial motivation for the characters, representing their hope for a better future and an escape from the struggles and hardships of itinerant working life during the Great Depression.

This dream also illustrates the theme of the American Dream, reflecting the belief that anyone can achieve their goals through hard work. The land they envision would allow them to live on their own terms, care for themselves, and create a stable and fulfilling life together—elements that are crucial to their characters and the plot of the story. The cultivation of this dream deepens the readers' understanding of their struggles and the tragic nature of their aspirations, making it a central component of the narrative.