John Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men, a staple of the GCSE English literature curriculum for decades, will no longer be taught in Wales from next September. Long appreciated for its themes of friendship, hardship, and human connection, the novel is now facing criticism over its use of racial slurs and outdated portrayals of marginalized groups. This decision, led by Wales’ WJEC exam board, marks a significant shift in how modern education
What Sparked the Change?
The decision to remove Of Mice and Men stems from concerns that its racial language and depictions can harm students, particularly Black students. Wales’ Children’s Commissioner, Rocio Cifuentes, voiced her support for the shift, citing feedback from Black students who found the classroom discussions around the novel damaging.
Cifuentes noted that many students described feeling marginalized when hearing racial slurs in a packed classroom, often as the only Black student present. She explained, “This isn’t about censorship—it’s about safeguarding the wellbeing of children.”
Harmful or Valuable? Perspectives on Of Mice and Men
While some educators and students appreciate the value of the book’s discussions on race, others argue that it comes at too high a cost for those directly impacted.
Student Voices
Marley, 16, recalled the discomfort of listening to the novel’s audio version alongside his classmates. “When the racial slurs were read, everyone laughed or stared at me,” he shared. “It made me feel really uncomfortable.” Similarly, Bowen Cole, 18, reflected on his experience studying To Kill a Mockingbird, another book now removed from the new curriculum. “Hearing those words in class was awkward and confusing, especially being the only Black person in the room,” he explained.
Not all student reactions have been negative, though. Jack, 17, shared that his class addressed sensitive sections through open discussions. For him, a safe classroom environment made it easier to learn from the book without feeling excluded.
Others, like Celyn, 16, had mixed feelings. While the novel’s outdated depictions left her uneasy, she acknowledged its ability to highlight ongoing systemic issues. “It made us realize that some things haven’t changed,” she noted.
Teachers Weigh In
Educators also have nuanced opinions. Rhian Evans, an English teacher at a Carmarthen school, pointed out that Of Mice and Men is accessible for students of varying abilities and lends itself to exploring universal themes like empathy and societal treatment.
However, she stressed that as a white teacher, she cannot truly understand how students of color feel about the book’s language. “Maybe it is time to look forward,” she reasoned, adding that modern, inclusive texts can address similar themes without causing discomfort
What’s Changing in the Curriculum?
Wales’ WJEC exam board has overhauled the English literature and language GCSE, which will merge into a single qualification starting next September. As part of this change, Of Mice and Men will no longer be available as an optional study text.
The WJEC explained that its new selection offers a broader range of works from diverse authors with varying nationalities, genders, and communities. The goal is to create an inclusive learning environment while still challenging students to engage with critical ideas.
An anti-racism consultant was employed to ensure the selection reflected contemporary values. According to the WJEC, the aim was to enrich education through texts that resonate with students’ experiences while addressing relevant themes like race, gender, and identity.
The Wider Debate Around Classic Literature
The decision has reignited broader debates about the role of classic literature in modern education. Should schools retire books like Of Mice and Men and To Kill a Mockingbird, which depict race-related issues in a way that feels outdated? Or should they remain as tools to provoke important discussions about racism, empathy, and societal progress?
Harry, 17, argued that challenging conversations are essential, especially in controlled classroom settings. “It’s better to discuss this in school, where we have teachers and peers to guide the conversation,” he said.
Yet for others, the issue lies less in the books themselves and more in how those conversations unfold. Does every child feel heard and safe in a mixed group when addressing sensitive topics? For many, like Commissioner Cifuentes and former pupils like Marley, the answer has historically been no.
Looking Ahead
While some may miss Of Mice and Men, this shift creates an opportunity to spotlight voices from underrepresented communities and provide fresh perspectives. There’s no shortage of contemporary works addressing similar themes—texts that are equally thought-provoking but more relevant and inclusive.
For teachers, this change offers an invaluable chance to add more diverse literature to the curriculum. By exploring new stories, they can ensure all students, regardless of background, feel respected and included in discussions around race and identity.
A Step Towards Inclusivity
The decision to retire Of Mice and Men from the Welsh curriculum serves as a step forward in making classrooms more inclusive spaces. While the novel remains an important piece of literary history, Welsh educators are prioritizing the mental and emotional well-being of their students.
The shift also represents a broader call for education systems worldwide to adapt, ensuring that classroom conversations reflect the diversity and complexities of today’s society. Wales’ approach may pave the way for constructive, sensitive, and informed discussions on these critical issues while safeguarding the dignity of every student.
Classic works have their place—but as Ms. Evans wisely said, “Maybe it is time to look forward.”