Introduction: Analysis of “The Lottery”
Penned by Shirley Jackson, the analysis of “The Lottery” reveals it to possess all the features of an excellent piece of literature, with the capacity to hold a multiplicity of meanings as interpreted by different readers. Published in 1948, this story has been acknowledged for its compelling narrative voice, well-developed characters, and an outstanding plot and setting. The narrative begins by introducing a village society with intriguing characters. The story unveils an old tradition of annual public stoning that occurs every year on the 27th of June. The brutal stoning of Mrs. Hutchinson in a public setting is depicted, creating a chilling effect. The scene is described in great detail with gripping narration, allowing for various interpretations through its major elements, including the narrator, plot, structure, interpretations, setting, and language.
Third Person and Analysis of “The Lottery”
The entire story is narrated in the third person, employing the omniscient narrator—someone observing the events from a distance. All characters in the narrative merely play their roles for this omniscient narrator. It becomes evident from the outset that this third person is the storyteller. As the events commence, the writer utilizes the third person voice, stating, “The morning of June 27th was clear and sunny…” (Jackson 1). This narrative approach persists throughout the unfolding events. Numerous engaging scenes arise, such as when characters like Mr. Summers exchange opinions with the villagers or when Mrs. Hutchinson, along with others, passionately converses. The pivotal moment occurs when Mr. Summers discloses the secret of the lottery and presents the box before the villagers.
Plot and Analysis of “The Lottery”
The plot of the story is a skillful combination of suspense and conflict, woven together through a series of actions. The narrative kicks off with the annual lottery event taking place in an unnamed village. While the villagers exhibit commendable qualities in some aspects, their involvement in the lottery is far from virtuous. Mr. Summers, as is customary, is the lottery holder for the year. He takes the lottery box home, filling it with pieces of paper bearing the names of each villager, determining who will be subjected to stoning.
Tension permeates the narrative from the start, escalating when a heated argument ensues among the villagers regarding the selected person. Some argue for abandoning the brutal tradition, likening themselves to a “Pack of crazy fools” (4), especially considering its abandonment in other villages. The suspense and tension reach their zenith during the lottery draw when the chosen person’s name is disclosed. Bill Hutchinson goes to his wife with the fateful piece of paper, while the other villagers prepare to pelt her with stones. Mrs. Hutchinson utters muffled words protesting, “It isn’t fair,” yet she is too feeble to resist or flee (5). The climax occurs swiftly, and the tension dissipates with the settling dust, marking the tragic end of Mrs. Hutchinson.
The story, despite its straightforward language, intricately weaves an intriguing plot with a sensational sequence of events unfolding simultaneously. The characters and setting remain consistent throughout, with only the order of events shifting as the narrative progresses. From the story’s inception to its conclusion, the village gathers in the square to discuss and carry out the lottery. Following the selection of the person to be stoned, the group of villagers disperses, marking the story’s conclusion. Dialogues transpire among various characters, yet the overall plot remains unchanged, undisturbed by external interruptions. The plot maintains a seamless sequence, offering a cohesive and impactful narrative.
Interpretations and Analysis of “The Lottery”
Absolutely, the beauty of “The Lottery” lies in its interpretive openness. Each reader can bring their unique perspective to the narrative, unveiling various layers of meaning. While some traditions may appear archaic and barbaric to an external observer, they hold deep significance for the villagers, representing the enduring legacy of their forefathers. The story paints a portrait of a society where individuals cling to outdated customs, showcasing the reluctance to part ways with ingrained habits.
Every character in the narrative serves as a symbolic representation of different facets of a society unwilling to relinquish detrimental traditions. The lack of empathy among the villagers, mirrored in their participation in the lottery without sympathy for one another, reflects a disturbing societal indifference. The authority vested in those upholding these traditions reinforces the rigidity, as they resist any change that would undermine their power.
The narrative highlights a stark contrast in the societal impact of these customs, with the lower strata, exemplified by characters like Mrs. Adams, bearing the brunt of these barbaric traditions. It unveils a power dynamic where the marginalized become the victims, underscoring the inherent injustice perpetuated by blind adherence to age-old norms.
Setting and Analysis of “The Lottery”
The setting of the story is indeed shrouded in deliberate ambiguity, adding a layer of mystery to the narrative. The village, situated near a mountain range, remains unnamed, allowing readers to make assumptions about its geographical location. The landscape described could evoke images of European countries or South Asia, where such settings are prevalent. The intentional omission of the exact location enhances the story’s enigmatic quality, making it feel both universal and timeless.
The specified date of June 27th establishes a temporal anchor in the narrative, while the omission of the year contributes to the overall sense of uncertainty. Readers are aware of the story’s publication year in 1948, creating a juxtaposition between the known and the unknown. This deliberate choice in setting and time adds to the story’s authenticity and captures the readers’ imagination.
The unknown location enhances the significance of the plot, portraying characters engaged in a deadly ritual without the distraction of a specific place. Mrs. Adams’s attempt to dissuade the villagers by mentioning the abandonment of the game in nearby villages highlights the resistance to change and the stubborn adherence to tradition. The story, with its mysterious setting, becomes a timeless exploration of the human tendency to hold on to harmful practices despite evidence of their detrimental effects.
Language and Analysis of “The Lottery”
The simplicity of the language in the story contributes to its accessibility and ease of understanding. The events unfold in a clear and chronological order, making it effortless for readers to follow the plot without requiring additional information. The dialogue for each character, such as Mr. Summers or Old Man Warner, is well-suited to their respective situations.
Despite Mr. Summers appearing as an ordinary villager, his use of authoritative language reflects a keen awareness of how to command attention and convey a sense of power. His repetition of the phrase “Seventy-seventh year I been in the lottery” serves to emphasize his authority and make an impression on the villagers. This deliberate choice of language adds depth to his character.
Similar authoritative language is directed at Mrs. Hutchinson when she protests against the unjust custom. The consistent use of relevant dialogues helps readers understand each character through their distinctive conversations, contributing to a nuanced portrayal of the individuals in the narrative. The writer’s skillful use of simple language and character-specific dialogue enhances the overall accessibility and impact of the story.
Conclusion: Analysis of “The Lottery”
In short, “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson stands out as a literary masterpiece, encompassing key elements that contribute to its brilliance. The third-person narrator provides a detached yet immersive perspective, observing and narrating the unfolding events to the readers. The plot, centered around the thrilling ritual of a lottery in a distant village, possesses a simple yet multifaceted structure, inviting a myriad of interpretations.
The story serves as a poignant reflection of society, unveiling the profound impact of archaic and irrational traditions on individuals’ lives. Through its simple language, the narrative effectively conveys the complexity of the plot, setting, and characters. The simplicity serves as a powerful tool, enhancing the accessibility of the story while allowing readers to delve into the deeper layers of its meaning. Overall, “The Lottery” encapsulates the essence of a timeless literary work, engaging readers with its thought-provoking themes and masterful storytelling.
Works Cited: Analysis of “The Lottery”
Jackson, Shirley. “The Lottery.” Middle Bury. Middle Bury. n. d. Web. Accessed 29 Apr. 2022.
Relevant Questions about Analysis of “The Lottery”
- Symbolism and Tradition:
- How does Shirley Jackson use symbolism to convey deeper meanings in “The Lottery”?
- What does the ritual of the lottery symbolize in the context of the story?
- How does the author explore the theme of blindly following tradition and its consequences?
- Character Motivations and Social Commentary:
- What motivates the characters in the story to participate in the lottery, and how does this reflect on human behavior and societal norms?
- In what ways does the author provide social commentary on conformity, peer pressure, and the dangers of unquestioning acceptance of established norms?
- How do individual characters’ reactions to the lottery contribute to the overall message of the story?
- Foreshadowing and Suspense:
- How does Shirley Jackson use foreshadowing throughout the story to build tension and create a sense of foreboding?
- What specific events or details in the narrative contribute to the increasing sense of unease and suspense?
- In what ways does the author manipulate the reader’s expectations to deliver a shocking and impactful ending?
Questions and Answers: “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson
- Is “The Lottery” an indictment of tradition?
”The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson is written with specific social traditions in mind. These traditions become very dear to the social groups because of their long practice. Therefore, the story is an indictment because the tradition of stoning a person in the town mentioned in this story has been going on for generations. The story is an indictment of this tradition because it indicates a wrong going on for generations does not mean that it is not wrong. The opposing members are considered a “pack of crazy fools” by the preservers of these traditions such as the Old Man Warner (Jackson 243). Although Mrs. Hutchinson raises the question of fairness of its existence, the crowd and the elders put her to silence. Therefore, the description of this horrific punishment, which she is given for nothing, is an indictment of such horrible traditions.
- Is it a commentary on lotteries in any way?
It cannot be said that “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson is an exact commentary on ordinary lotteries in any way, but it could be a commentary too, as literature has the power to invite interpretations in multiple ways. It is because people often bet everything in greed of winning big prizes but sometimes get nothing in return. Several rich people have turned into paupers through these lotteries. The same case is there that those people sacrifice a person to get good crops, as they say, “Lottery in June, corn be heavy soon” but there is no point in sacrificing a life if the corn is not heavy (243). Yet it continues in the story in that the lottery must be held whatever may happen. Therefore, in some way, it is a commentary on ordinary lotteries too which rob a person to feed the one who wins. This is a modern replica of the same old rituals.
- Describe the attitudes of the children as they gather for the lottery.
The children consider the lottery an ordinary event. Therefore, it is a sort of sport for them to stone a person. They have gotten up very early in the morning and collected stones in the middle of the open square to stone that victim of the lottery. When the lottery is going to be held, the school is off, and they assemble before everybody else. First, they sit quietly and then start their usual conversation of “the classroom and the teacher, of books and reprimands” (240). Bobby Martin has his pockets full of stones, while others are searching for good stones that could hit the victim hard. In short, it is an exciting occasion for them. In one way, it is also a lesson for them that gradually enters their mentality and takes the form of a tradition that must not be broken at every cost.
- What is Tessie’s family’s reaction to her being chosen? Does that seem odd? Why?
When Mrs. Hutchinson arrives at the place of the lottery, she is late from others. The only thing to do is to see what happens. However, she instantly becomes an odd thing out. She knows when Bill gets the paper that he is not given enough time and she said, “It wasn’t fair” but not only does her husband reprimand her but also that others ask her to be fair as it is a sport for them (241). Bill makes her silent by saying, “Shut up, Tessie” (243). Although nobody has given any reaction except Bill, he, too, shows total indifference as he goes to her and takes out a piece of paper from her hand to verify that she has the same paper that has the spot on it. Finally, nobody pays attention to her, and she faces the stones thrown at her to kill her.
- Discuss the significance of Warner’s saying, “ Lottery in June, corn be heavy soon” (paragraph 32).
The story “Lottery” shows that it is actually a long-held social tradition that the people of ancient times used to hold a gathering to sacrifice somebody to make their gods and goddesses happy to have good crops. The same still continues, though some rituals such as salutation, chips of wood, and calling each person by names have been abandoned, but the cruelest part of it exists. It is done to prove that “Lottery in June, corn be heavy soon” which means that if this is not held, their lands would turn sterile and they would have to live in caves as the Old Man Warner warns the opposing persons that “they will be wanting to go back to living in caves” (243). This fear is the basis of killing a person by stoning him to death every year.
