The Lottery

Potential thesis statements for analytical perspectives on "The Lottery" by Shirley Jackson could include: examining the story's critique of blind tradition, exploring the use of symbolism to...

In Shirley Jackson's "The Lottery," the protagonist is Tessie Hutchinson, who ultimately becomes the victim of the town's brutal ritual. The antagonist is the collective village, which blindly...

In Shirley Jackson's "The Lottery," the climax occurs when Tessie Hutchinson is selected as the "winner" of the lottery, revealing the true nature of this ritual as a human sacrifice. The falling...

The setting of Shirley Jackson's "The Lottery" is a small, seemingly idyllic farming village in rural America, often associated with the American Midwest. The story unfolds on a clear, warm morning...

The names in Shirley Jackson's "The Lottery" carry significant symbolism and allusions. Bentham likely references Jeremy Bentham, highlighting utilitarianism's theme of sacrificing one for the...

The conclusion of "The Lottery" is shocking because Tessie Hutchinson is violently stoned to death, a stark contrast to the story's seemingly normal setting. Subtle foreshadowing, such as children...

In "The Lottery," authority in the town is held by Mr. Summers, who conducts the lottery and other civic activities. However, he does not appear to have an official government role. The town's...

The narrator groups the lottery with "the square dances, the teen club, the Halloween program" because they are all run by Mr. Summers. Mentioning the other events helps to provide a holistic picture...

The lottery is an ancient and sacred tradition, the purpose of which has been forgotten over time. It's a scapegoat ritual, but it isn't always clear that the villagers choose Tessie because they...

In "The Lottery," villagers primarily engage in farming and homemaking. Conversations among the men about planting and tractors suggest many are farmers, while women's attire and activities imply...

In "The Lottery," townspeople generally support the ritual as long as they are not selected. Mr. Summers, who administers the lottery, is a proponent, ensuring it runs smoothly. Tessie Hutchinson,...

In Shirley Jackson's "The Lottery," the townspeople prepare for the annual lottery by gathering in the town square, with children collecting stones and adults assembling to await Mr. Summers and Mr....

In "The Lottery," Old Man Warner likely supports a strong work ethic. He is a staunch defender of tradition and criticizes other villages for abandoning the lottery, which he views as a necessary...

In “The Lottery,” the phrase “heavy pencil,” used to describe the instrument used by Mr. Summers, is an appropriate choice because it conveys the weight of Mr. Summers's efforts as he constructs the...

Old Man Warner staunchly supports the lottery, representing the traditional view that resists change and values the ritual's continuity. Mr. Summers and Mr. Graves, who hold authoritative roles in...