How is the theme of loneliness developed in this chapter Think about the characters Lennie Crooks Candy and Curley's wife.?

In this chapter, loneliness is developed through the characters' isolated experiences. Lennie is mentally challenged and depends on George, leaving him vulnerable to loneliness. Crooks is segregated due to his race, facing discrimination and social isolation on the ranch. Candy is aging and feels ignored, with his only companion being his old dog. Curley's wife is lonely due to her inability to connect with the ranch workers, leading her to seek attention elsewhere. Through these characters, Steinbeck portrays the universal theme of loneliness in different forms.