What is the relationship between George and Lennie?

In John Steinbeck's novel, "Of Mice and Men," George and Lennie are friends and companions, with George acting as protector of Lennie. Lennie is very loyal and due to his disability relies on George to guide him. George recognizes his responsibility to Lennie, but doesn't realize that Lennie can be dangerous.

In "Of Mice and Men", George and Lennie are migrant workers in California. Lennie is described as a giant, while George is small. George is the one in charge: he takes care of the details of their work on the ranch and offers Lennie advice on how to act. In the novel, Lennie's dependence on George makes George feel that they have a special bond between each other.