Themes: Irony and Humor
After “The Lottery,” “Charles” may be Shirley Jackson’s best-known short story and is often anthologized for young readers. The story’s appeal seems to derive more from the irony of its surprise ending and from its humor than from any very significant thematic content. One interesting thematic aspect of the tale, however, emerges from considering the significance of Laurie’s creation and characterization of Charles.
Expert Q&A
How did Charles become a household joke in Laurie's home in "Charles"?
Charles became a household joke in Laurie's home because Laurie constantly shared outrageous stories about Charles's mischievous behavior at school. Laurie's parents, amused by the tales, began to use Charles as a benchmark for bad behavior. Unbeknownst to them, Laurie was actually describing his own actions, making the joke ultimately on them when they discovered there was no Charles.
What does the preview reveal about Charles?
Most classrooms have a boy who is always in trouble.
in this story we find that even a kindergarten class has its problem child- Charles.
We may not expect to find humor amid all the problems that surround such a boy, but let Shirley Jackson tell you all about "Charles"...
The preview reveals that Charles is portrayed as a "problem child" in a kindergarten setting, known for causing trouble and tension in the classroom. This suggests that such disruptive behavior is common and expected in schools. The story by Shirley Jackson humorously explores the consequences and perceptions surrounding a child like Charles, ultimately revealing a twist where the problematic child might be the narrator's own, prompting a change in perception and self-awareness.
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