Lamb to the Slaughter Questions on Murder of Patrick Maloney
Lamb to the Slaughter
The creation and maintenance of suspense in Roald Dahl's "Lamb to the Slaughter"
In "Lamb to the Slaughter," Roald Dahl creates and maintains suspense through unexpected plot twists, such as Mary Maloney's sudden murder of her husband and the subsequent cover-up. The tension is...
Lamb to the Slaughter
Create a newspaper report on Patrick's death from "Lamb to the Slaughter" without implicating Mary Maloney.
A newspaper report on Patrick's death in "Lamb to the Slaughter" would emphasize his role as a local policeman found dead in his home, with authorities suspecting foul play. It would portray Mary...
Lamb to the Slaughter
Why did Mary use a leg of lamb to kill Patrick?
Mary kills Patrick with a leg of lamb because she has been hurt by Patrick's betrayal and succumbs to the instinctive urge to lash out. As the frozen leg of lamb just happens to be the nearest object...
Lamb to the Slaughter
Would you consider the murder in "Lamb to the Slaughter" perfect? Why?
The murder in "Lamb to the Slaughter" is not "perfect" as it was impulsive, not premeditated, and driven by Mary’s emotional reaction to her husband's news. Although she cleverly disposes of the...
Lamb to the Slaughter
What would Mary Maloney's diary entry look like on the night of her husband's murder?
Mary Maloney's diary entry might reflect her lack of guilt about her husband's murder, as suggested by her calm disposal of the evidence and her giggling at the end. She may feel justified in her...
Lamb to the Slaughter
Mary Maloney's decision to make supper in "Lamb to the Slaughter" by Roald Dahl
Mary Maloney's decision to make supper in "Lamb to the Slaughter" by Roald Dahl serves as a calculated move to establish an alibi. By acting normally and preparing a meal, she aims to cover up her...
Lamb to the Slaughter
What's the most important event in Roald Dahl's "Lamb to the Slaughter"?
The most important event in "Lamb to the Slaughter" is when Mary Maloney impulsively kills her husband with a frozen leg of lamb. This act marks a dramatic shift in her character from a loving wife...
Lamb to the Slaughter
Was Mr. Maloney's murder in "Lamb to the Slaughter" premeditated? Why or why not?
Mr. Maloney's murder in "Lamb to the Slaughter" was not premeditated. Mary acted in a daze, unconsciously retrieving the leg of lamb, suggesting a lack of deliberate intent. The narrative indicates...
Lamb to the Slaughter
What exam questions could be asked about "Lamb to the Slaughter"?
Exam questions on "Lamb to the Slaughter" could explore themes of irony and character development. Specific questions might include: Is Mary's shift in behavior believable? Why might Patrick want a...