2.05 Graded Assignment: Write an Analysis

Answer 1

In the short story "The Lottery" by Shirley Jackson, the author explores the unsettling nature of blindly following tradition and the darker tendencies present within human nature. Through her vivid descriptions and careful development of characters, Jackson effectively conveys these themes, leaving readers both fascinated and disturbed.

Right from the beginning, the author sets a seemingly idyllic scene in a small village on a sunny summer day. The villagers are excitedly gathering for the annual lottery, a tradition that has been passed down for generations. However, as the story progresses, Jackson slowly unravels the truth behind this seemingly innocent event. Symbolism is used throughout to enhance the sense of foreboding. For example, the names of the characters such as Mr. Graves and Mr. Summers evoke a sense of death and warmth respectively, subtly foreshadowing the sinister outcome of the lottery.

The characters in the story are well-developed and serve as a microcosm of society. From Mrs. Hutchinson's initial protestations against the lottery to her shocking fate at the end, the reader witnesses the dramatic shift in her character as the truth unfolds. The other villagers, portrayed as ordinary people, quickly turn into a mob, fueled by the blind adherence to tradition. This depiction raises essential questions about the dangerous power of groupthink and the ease with which people can become complicit in acts of violence and cruelty.

Jackson's use of suspense and tension builds steadily throughout the story, keeping the reader engaged until its shocking conclusion. The fact that the entire community participates in the lottery, without questioning its purpose, adds another layer of horror and highlights the destructive nature of blind conformity. The abrupt ending leaves readers with many unanswered questions, forcing them to confront their own assumptions and beliefs about tradition and societal norms.

"The Lottery" can be seen as a cautionary tale, urging readers to question the origins and implications of their traditions. By exposing the darker side of human nature, Jackson reminds us that blindly following societal customs can lead to grave consequences. This story serves as a powerful critique of the dangers of conformity and the need for critical thinking, even in seemingly harmless rituals.