The lottery

Definition

The lottery is a short story by Shirley Jackson that explores themes of tradition, violence, and conformity in a small village where the townspeople participate in an annual ritual. The narrative's point of view is crucial, as it shapes readers' perceptions of the characters and the shocking conclusion that reveals the dark side of human nature and societal norms.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The story opens with a seemingly ordinary day, creating a sense of normalcy before the shocking events unfold.
2. The villagers are portrayed as complacent, highlighting how tradition can blind individuals to morality and ethical considerations.
3. The lottery itself symbolizes the randomness of violence and the arbitrary nature of societal rituals.
4. Characterization plays a significant role, with characters displaying a mix of excitement and dread as the lottery approaches, emphasizing their internal conflict.
5. The story ends with a twist that forces readers to confront the disturbing implications of conformity and the human capacity for cruelty.

Review Questions

• How does the point of view in 'the lottery' influence the reader's understanding of the characters and their motivations?
  • The point of view in 'the lottery' is third-person and objective, which allows readers to observe the characters without being privy to their inner thoughts. This detachment creates a sense of normalcy around the lottery, making the eventual reveal more shocking. The narrative style encourages readers to draw their own conclusions about the characters' motivations, ultimately highlighting how societal pressure influences individuals to participate in harmful traditions.
• Discuss how Shirley Jackson uses irony in 'the lottery' to enhance its themes. What effect does this have on the overall message of the story?
  • Jackson employs irony throughout 'the lottery' by juxtaposing the festive atmosphere of the event with its brutal outcome. This stark contrast emphasizes the absurdity of blindly following tradition without questioning its morality. The ironic twist at the end serves to shock readers and forces them to reflect on their own societal norms, suggesting that complacency can lead to acceptance of violence and inhumanity.
• Evaluate the significance of tradition in 'the lottery.' How does Jackson critique the role of tradition in shaping human behavior and community dynamics?
  • In 'the lottery,' tradition is portrayed as both a unifying force and a source of moral decay within the community. Jackson critiques how adherence to tradition can lead individuals to abandon their ethical principles, resulting in horrific outcomes. By illustrating how villagers prioritize conformity over compassion, she highlights the dangers of unquestioning loyalty to outdated customs, urging readers to consider the implications of their own traditions on society.

Related terms

Tradition: The customs and practices that are passed down through generations, which can influence behavior and societal norms.

Dystopia: An imagined society characterized by oppressive societal control, often used in literature to explore social and political structures.

Irony: A literary device where the intended meaning is opposite to the literal meaning, often creating a contrast between expectations and reality.