Why do you think people reacted so violently to the publication of “The Lottery”? (1 point) Responses It exacerbated the climate of paranoia in the War War II era. It exacerbated the climate of paranoia in the War War II era. It pointed the finger at the dangers of a small-town mentality. It pointed the finger at the dangers of a small-town mentality. It suggested that even the most normal people are capable of evil. It suggested that even the most normal people are capable of evil. It accused American society of being cold-hearted and capable of murder.

Answer 1

The most likely reason for the violent reaction to the publication of "The Lottery" was that it suggested that even the most normal people are capable of evil. This idea goes against the belief that only "bad" or "evil" individuals are capable of committing heinous acts, challenging the readers' perceptions of human nature and morality. Additionally, the story's critique of small-town mentalities and the portrayal of American society as cold-hearted and capable of murder may have also contributed to the intense reaction from readers.