The 1920s, or the beginning of feminist expression, was a time that embodied a carefree and relaxed attitude, however, this period of relative prosperity changed after the collapse of the stock market in the 1920s. This horrific event began the “Great Depression” in which millions of people were left homeless and millions more lived without knowing where their next meal would be. Curley's wife's life counteracts this period of grief by offering a kind of insight into the past. Curley's wife is more than a victim of circumstance; embodies meanness, cruelty and self-obsession. These apparent factors make Curley's wife the starkest contrast to the norms of typical female behavior of the time. Although she seems very friendly and talkative, Curley's wife is nothing more than a careless and self-obsessed character. At every opportunity, this deceitful lady talks about her missed opportunities. She talks about a traveling actor who told her she could join their show in Hollywood. Unfortunately, Curley's wife never made the "cut." He becomes convinced that his mother stole the letter instead of believing the truth that they were not interested in his talent. This type of thinking and contempt is very different from that of a typical 1930s woman. Because times were hard, there was never enough food or clothing to go around. To correct these disparities, the mother typically cared for others and took on the “sharer” role. Curley's wife appears to be nothing more than someone who acts carelessly without thinking about the consequences it might have on others. In fact, he deliberately flirts with all workers for two main reasons. Indirectly, he ensures that they suffer Curley's belligerent wrath, which only makes Curley feel even worse about him... middle of paper... in this isolated scenario. She was naturally self-obsessed and unaware of her surroundings. While most women took care of their children, helped around the house, put food on the table, Curley's wife, the "tramp," flirted with all the men as she casually wandered around the farm as if nothing had ever happened. wrong. In addition to her actions, Curley's wife's "stunning" appearance and self-centered attitude reflected her life appearing to be stuck in the 1920s. This desire to live the "dream" of prosperity ultimately leads to her untimely death when Lennie accidentally kills her in the barn near the end of the novel. This death characterizes one of Steinbeck's central arguments centered on the idea of ​​adaptation to current situations. Curley's wife's inability to adapt is evident throughout the novel and sets her apart from women during the Great Depression.