What was George's role/purpose/conflicts in Of Mice and Men?

George is one of the protagonist's of the novel. He and Lennie are an anomaly in the world of itinerant ranch hands, because they travvel together and share a common dream..... getting a ranch of their own. George's biggest conflict can be found in his desire to keep Lennie out of hot water. These two men are almost like brothers, but Lennie's presence and childlike mentality are a constant source of trouble. George may have to deal with the effects, but Lennie is always the cause.