In John Steinbeck's novel "Of Mice and Men," Candy is presented as a complex and multifaceted character. At first glance, Candy seems like a stereotypical old swamper, a man who works as a janitor on the ranch where the story takes place. He is described as "an old man, humped with age," and his job on the ranch is low-status and physically demanding.
Despite his age and humble position, Candy is shown to have a deep understanding of the world around him. He is aware of the harsh realities of life on the ranch, and he recognizes that the characters of George and Lennie, two itinerant workers who dream of owning their own piece of land, are unlikely to achieve their dream. Candy recognizes that he, too, is unlikely to ever achieve his own dream of owning a piece of land and living off the land.
Despite this, Candy is not a defeated or pessimistic character. He is shown to be fiercely loyal to his friends, and he is willing to risk everything to help them achieve their dreams. This is demonstrated when Candy offers to contribute all of his savings to George and Lennie's dream of buying their own ranch, showing that he values friendship and loyalty above his own financial security.
Candy is also a tragic character, as he is defined by his physical disability. He lost his hand in an accident on the ranch, and this injury has left him feeling vulnerable and self-conscious. Candy's disability is a constant source of pain and frustration for him, and it is a reminder of the dangers and sacrifices that come with working on a ranch.
Overall, Steinbeck presents Candy as a complex and layered character who is defined by his loyalty, his understanding of the world around him, and his physical disability. Despite the many challenges he faces, Candy remains a resilient and determined character, always striving to do what is right and to support his friends.
