illustrated tablesetting with a plate containing a large lamb-leg roast resting on a puddle of blood

Lamb to the Slaughter

by Roald Dahl

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Lamb to the Slaughter Questions on Patrick Maloney

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Lamb to the Slaughter

In "Lamb to the Slaughter," Patrick's exact reason for ending his marriage is not explicitly revealed, reflecting the story's focus on Mary’s reaction rather than his motives. This ambiguity enhances...

4 educator answers

Lamb to the Slaughter

In Roald Dahl's "Lamb to the Slaughter," Patrick Maloney informs his pregnant wife, Mary, that he is leaving her, likely for another woman, although his exact words are not revealed. This...

7 educator answers

Lamb to the Slaughter

In Roald Dahl's "Lamb to the Slaughter," the "lamb" symbolizes both Patrick and Mary. Patrick, the husband, is the literal lamb slaughtered by Mary, losing his life and innocence. Mary, initially...

2 educator answers

Lamb to the Slaughter

Patrick Maloney in "Lamb to the Slaughter" is portrayed as a cold, selfish, and self-centered husband. He is characterized by his regular, predictable routine and a preference for silence and...

9 educator answers

Lamb to the Slaughter

Feelings towards Patrick and Mary Maloney in "Lamb to the Slaughter" can be sympathetic for both. Patrick is seen as feeling guilty and ashamed for wanting to leave, driven by being tired of the...

1 educator answer

Lamb to the Slaughter

"Lamb to the Slaughter" by Roald Dahl uses the title as a clever double entendre, symbolizing both the murder weapon—a frozen leg of lamb—and the unsuspecting husband, Patrick Maloney, who is killed...

10 educator answers

Lamb to the Slaughter

In "Lamb to the Slaughter," clues indicating a break with routine before the husband's news include Patrick's unusual behavior, such as drinking more than usual, responding curtly to Mary, and...

3 educator answers

Lamb to the Slaughter

In Roald Dahl's "Lamb to the Slaughter," Mr. Maloney reveals to his wife, Mary, that he is divorcing her, intending to provide financial support but urging her not to make a fuss. His decision stems...

2 educator answers

Lamb to the Slaughter

In Roald Dahl's "Lamb to the Slaughter," Mary Maloney is both the protagonist and the "lamb," reflecting innocence and victimhood, yet she turns into a cunning murderer. Initially portrayed as a...

5 educator answers

Lamb to the Slaughter

The husband's glass of whiskey in "Lamb to the Slaughter" is described as a strong drink, reflecting his need to fortify himself before announcing his desire for a divorce. Dahl focuses on this...

1 educator answer

Lamb to the Slaughter

Patrick Maloney's profession as a policeman significantly influences the story by providing his wife, Mary, with insights into police procedures, enabling her to craft a perfect alibi and dispose of...

2 educator answers

Lamb to the Slaughter

In "Lamb to the Slaughter," Mary Maloney is the protagonist who murders her husband, Patrick, after he reveals he is leaving her. Patrick is the unsuspecting victim whose death drives the plot. The...

3 educator answers

Lamb to the Slaughter

The initial signs of Patrick's disturbance in "Lamb to the Slaughter" are his unusual mannerisms and behavior. He is uncharacteristically quiet, drinks more than usual, and responds curtly to his...

3 educator answers

Lamb to the Slaughter

In Roald Dahl’s "Lamb to the Slaughter," on Thursday evenings, the couple—Patrick and Mary Maloney—normally goes out to eat dinner. They enjoy a weekly "date night" away from home. One Thursday...

1 educator answer

Lamb to the Slaughter

Patrick Maloney's profession in "Lamb to the Slaughter" is that of a police detective. This detail is significant as it adds irony to the story, given his wife's clever manipulation of the...

3 educator answers

Lamb to the Slaughter

Mary Maloney does not implicate herself or leave clues in "Lamb to the Slaughter." She benefits from her husband's clean reputation and the assumption that a strong man used a metal club, not a meek...

1 educator answer

Lamb to the Slaughter

A change in Patrick's behavior, such as his uncharacteristic drinking and dismissive attitude upon coming home, causes Mary to become increasingly worried and eventually frightened. His unusual...

1 educator answer

Lamb to the Slaughter

"Lamb to the Slaughter" would differ significantly if Patrick Maloney were a banker instead of a policeman. As the wife of a police officer, Mary Maloney could easily fabricate an alibi and...

1 educator answer

Lamb to the Slaughter

If Patrick had written to his brother before leaving work, he might have explained his decision to leave Mary, likely due to meeting another, more exciting woman. The story suggests Patrick feels...

2 educator answers

Lamb to the Slaughter

Mary Maloney's relationship with her husband is portrayed as seemingly ideal from her perspective, as she is devoted and creates a warm home environment. She loves him deeply and fulfills societal...

1 educator answer

Lamb to the Slaughter

Patrick Maloney's comment about it being "kind of a bad time" to tell Mary his news refers to the fact that she is six months pregnant. He is likely leaving her, which not only ends their marriage...

2 educator answers

Lamb to the Slaughter

The title "Lamb to the Slaughter" symbolizes both Patrick and Mary Maloney. Initially, Mary is depicted as the lamb: innocent and defenseless, unaware of Patrick's intention to leave her, which...

1 educator answer

Lamb to the Slaughter

Patrick Maloney in "Lamb to the Slaughter" is depicted as a husband of steady habits but ultimately self-centered. Initially, his routine and quiet demeanor suggest he is a caring partner, with Mary...

2 educator answers

Lamb to the Slaughter

Mary and Patrick's relationship is depicted through contrasting descriptions of anticipation and indifference. Mary is described as "curiously tranquil," "content," and eager for connection, while...

1 educator answer

Lamb to the Slaughter

The incident is triggered when Patrick announces his departure, abruptly telling Mary he wants a divorce. This revelation shocks Mary, who feels betrayed after her devoted efforts to maintain the...

1 educator answer