“The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson: A Critical Analysis

Introduction: “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson

“The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson first published in 1948 takes place in a small, seemingly idyllic town in rural America, where the townspeople gather every year to participate in a ritual lottery. The lottery, which involves randomly selecting a winner from the townspeople, takes a dark and disturbing turn, revealing the hidden cruelty and brutality that lies beneath the surface of the seemingly peaceful community. The story has become a classic of American literature and is often studied for its exploration of themes such as tradition, ritual, and the dark side of human nature.

Main Events in “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson

1. The story opens on a beautiful summer morning in a small town where the residents are gathering in the town square for the annual lottery.
2. Mr. Summers and Mr. Graves, the town leaders, arrive with the black box that contains slips of paper for each household in the town.
3. The townspeople draw papers from the box, with the head of each household going first, and the person who selects the slip of paper with a black dot on it is declared the “winner” of the lottery.
4. Tessie Hutchinson, a housewife, is declared the winner of the lottery and protests that the process was not fair.
5. The other townspeople ignore Tessie’s protests and start gathering stones, which are used in the second half of the ritual.
6. As Tessie is surrounded by the angry townspeople and pelted with stones, the reader is made to understand that this is a long-standing and accepted part of the community’s culture.
7. The stoning continues until Tessie is dead.
8. The villagers return to their daily routines as if nothing has happened, indicating that the event has become normalized in their society.
9. Some of the younger townspeople seem uneasy with the violence, but they do not speak out.
10. The story ends with the chilling description of the pile of stones left at the scene of the murder, as well as the shocking realization that this is a community-wide event that has been happening for generations.

Literary Devices in “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson

1. Allusion: The names of some of the characters in the story have symbolic significance, such as Mr. Summers and Mr. Graves, which allude to the nature of the event they oversee.
2. Hyperbole: Jackson uses hyperbole to emphasize the villagers’ excitement about the lottery, describing it as “the one day of the year that was desirable.”
3. Imagery: Jackson uses vivid imagery to describe the setting, creating a contrast between the idyllic summer day and the brutal violence of the lottery.
4. Irony: The story is full of irony, such as the fact that the villagers who are supposed to care for each other end up stoning one of their own.
5. Metaphor: The black box used in the lottery is a metaphor for the town’s history and tradition, as well as the darkness that lies beneath the surface.
6. Personification: The black box is personified as a character with its own history and significance, as well as the power to choose the “winner” of the lottery.
7. Point of View: The story is told from a third-person point of view, which allows the reader to see the events from the perspective of multiple characters.
8. Satire: Jackson uses satire to criticize the blind acceptance of tradition and the cruelty of mob mentality.
9. Simile: Jackson uses similes to create vivid descriptions, such as comparing the black box to a “joke.”
10. Social commentary: The story is a commentary on the dangers of blind acceptance of tradition and the power of mob mentality.
11. Symbolism: The black box represents the history and tradition of the lottery, as well as the community’s willingness to sacrifice one of its own.
12. Tone: The story has a dark and ominous tone, which creates a sense of foreboding and tension.
13. Verbal irony: Jackson uses verbal irony to create a sense of tension and unease, such as when the villagers cheer for the winner of the lottery.
14. Situational irony: The outcome of the story is a clear example of situational irony, as the person who wins the lottery is also the victim of the stoning.
15. Dramatic irony: The reader knows more than the characters in the story, which creates dramatic irony, such as when Tessie protests that the lottery was not fair, even though the reader knows that she will be the victim.

Characterization in “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson

Major Characters:

• Tessie Hutchinson: The central character, Tessie is initially portrayed as a concerned wife and mother, arguing with her husband about a missing household item (“Wouldn’t these stones hurt all over?”). However, as the story progresses, her character gains depth through her growing unease and eventual defiance (“It isn’t fair, it isn’t right”).
• Mr. Hutchinson: Tessie’s husband, Bill, serves as a foil to her. He blindly follows tradition, even when it turns against his family (“All right, Tessie. That’s enough of that”). This highlights the conflict between blind tradition and individual survival.

Minor Characters:

• Old Man Warner: The oldest villager, Warner represents the unwavering adherence to tradition. He defends the lottery’s importance (“Lottery in June, corn be heavy soon”) despite its brutality.
• Mr. Summers: The lottery official, Summers, embodies a disturbing normalcy. He treats the event as a routine task, using a cheerful tone (“Good morning, everyone!”) to mask the ceremony’s sinister nature.

Characterization Techniques:

• Dialogue: Dialogue reveals characters’ personalities and motivations. Tessie’s arguments expose her growing fear, while Bill’s acceptance highlights the danger of unquestioning tradition.
• Actions: Characters’ actions speak volumes. Old Man Warner’s insistence on following the rules, despite the potential for his family to be chosen, showcases the tradition’s grip on the community.
• Indirect Characterization: Descriptions of characters and their surroundings paint a picture of their roles and the story’s atmosphere. The seemingly idyllic setting (“The morning of June 27th was clear and warm”) contrasts sharply with the dark lottery ritual.

Impact of Characterization:

The characterization in “The Lottery” creates a sense of unease and foreshadows the horrifying climax. The villagers’ casual acceptance of the lottery (“Mr. Summers.. used the same stone year after year”) makes the ritual even more disturbing.

By focusing on the characters’ blind adherence to tradition and Tessie’s desperate rebellion, Jackson critiques the dangers of unquestioning authority and the potential for barbarity hidden within seemingly normal traditions.

Major Themes in “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson

1. The Power of Tradition:

• Description: The story emphasizes the deeply ingrained tradition of the lottery. Phrases like “Lottery in June, corn be heavy soon” (Old Man Warner) highlight its connection to the harvest and a perceived necessity for good fortune.
• Impact: The villagers blindly follow the ritual, even Mr. Summers uses the “same stone year after year” despite its horrifying outcome. This unwavering adherence to tradition, regardless of its purpose, becomes a central theme.

2. Danger of Blind Conformity:

• Description: The villagers act as a unified group, unquestioningly participating in the lottery. Even children like Dave Hutchinson are expected to participate, highlighting the pressure to conform.
• Impact: Tessie’s eventual rebellion (“It isn’t fair, it isn’t right”) stands out against the conformity. Her fate emphasizes the danger of blindly following tradition without questioning its consequences.

3. Juxtaposition of Peace and Violence:

• Description: The story establishes a peaceful setting (“The morning of June 27th was clear and warm”) with children playing and families gathering. This normalcy is shattered by the violent act of the lottery.
• Impact: The contrast between the idyllic setting and the brutal ritual creates a sense of unease and exposes the potential for violence lurking beneath the surface of seemingly normal traditions.

4. The Randomness of Persecution:

• Description: The lottery chooses its victim at random, with each villager having an equal chance of being selected (“each head of a household reached forward…).
• Impact: This randomness heightens the fear factor. No one is safe, showcasing the senselessness and cruelty of the tradition. The lottery doesn’t punish wrongdoing, it simply chooses a scapegoat.

Writing Style in “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson

1. Deceptive Simplicity and Understated Horror: Jackson uses plain language and a straightforward narrative style to lull the reader into a false sense of security, making the shocking conclusion all the more unsettling.
2. Foreshadowing and Symbolism: She employs foreshadowing and symbolism to hint at the story’s darker themes. Examples include the black box and the ominous gathering of stones.
3. Vivid Imagery and Sensory Detail: Her use of vivid imagery and sensory detail, particularly in the description of the stoning, creates a visceral and disturbing effect on the reader.
4. Effective Theme Conveyance: Overall, Jackson’s writing style in “The Lottery” effectively conveys the story’s themes of blind conformity, the dangers of tradition, and the potential for violence lurking beneath the surface of normalcy. It leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

Literary Theories and Interpretation of “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson

Literary Theory	Interpretation	References from the Story
Historical/Sociological Criticism	Analyzes the story in the context of its historical and social setting.	* The story’s publication in 1948, a post-war era with anxieties about conformity and mob mentality, contributes to the interpretation of the lottery as a critique of blind adherence to tradition and mob violence. * The seemingly idyllic small-town setting might reflect a nostalgia for a simpler time, but the lottery exposes the darkness beneath the surface.
Psychological Criticism	Explores the characters’ motivations and the psychological impact of the events.	* Tessie’s growing anxiety and eventual rebellion (“It isn’t fair, it isn’t right”) can be seen as a fight for survival and a challenge to the established power structure. * The villagers’ unquestioning participation in the lottery could be interpreted as a coping mechanism for fear and a need for belonging within the community.
Symbolism	Analyzes the symbolic meaning of objects, characters, and events.	* The black box represents the darkness and brutality hidden within tradition. * The lottery itself symbolizes a scapegoating ritual, sacrificing one for the perceived benefit of the many. * The gathering of stones foreshadows the violence to come.
Allegory	Interprets the story as a representation of a broader concept or issue.	* The lottery can be seen as an allegory for scapegoating, persecution, or blind adherence to authority. * The story might also be interpreted as a warning about the dangers of mob mentality and the potential for violence lurking beneath seemingly harmless traditions.

Topics, Questions, and Thesis Statements about “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson

• Topic: The Power of Tradition

• Question: How does Shirley Jackson portray the power of tradition in “The Lottery”?
• Thesis Statement: In “The Lottery,” Shirley Jackson utilizes the unwavering adherence to the annual ritual to highlight the dangers of blindly following tradition, even when it leads to violence and injustice.
• Topic: Blind Conformity and Individuality
  • Question: To what extent does “The Lottery” explore the conflict between blind conformity and individual survival?
  • Thesis Statement: Jackson’s “The Lottery” exposes the dangers of blind conformity through the villagers’ unquestioning participation in the lottery, contrasting it with Tessie’s desperate rebellion, which ultimately highlights the importance of individuality in the face of oppressive traditions.
• Topic: Symbolism and Foreshadowing
  • Question: How does Shirley Jackson utilize symbolism and foreshadowing to create suspense and hint at the dark themes in “The Lottery”?
  • Thesis Statement: In “The Lottery,” Jackson employs powerful symbols like the black box and the gathering of stones, alongside subtle foreshadowing, to create a sense of unease and gradually reveal the story’s horrifying climax.
• Topic: The Dangers of a Utopian Facade
  • Question: How does Jackson challenge the idyllic small-town setting in “The Lottery” to expose a darker reality?
  • Thesis Statement: Shirley Jackson’s “The Lottery” dismantles the idyllic facade of a seemingly peaceful town by unveiling the brutal lottery ritual, highlighting the potential for violence and barbarity lurking beneath the surface of normalcy.

Short Question-Answer about “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson

• What is the purpose of the black box in “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson?
• The black box in “The Lottery” is a symbol of tradition and the power it holds over the people in the community. The box has been used for generations to hold the slips of paper that determine who will be the annual sacrifice, and the people in the community are afraid to change it. They even refer to the box as “the tradition,” and it serves as a physical manifestation of the hold that tradition has over their lives.
• How does Shirley Jackson use foreshadowing in “The Lottery”?
• Shirley Jackson uses foreshadowing in “The Lottery” to create a sense of unease and anticipation in the reader. She drops hints throughout the story that the lottery is not going to have a happy ending, such as the ominous description of the villagers gathering and the reference to the “bad” lottery in nearby towns. By doing so, Jackson builds tension and a sense of dread that culminates in the shocking and violent conclusion.
• What does “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson say about human nature?
• “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson suggests that humans have a tendency to blindly follow tradition and groupthink, even when it goes against their morals and values. The people in the community are willing to sacrifice one of their own every year because that’s what they’ve always done, and they’re afraid to break from tradition. Jackson’s story shows how easily people can be swayed by group dynamics and the power of tradition, even when it leads to violence and harm.
• How does “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson critique society?
• “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson is a critique of society’s tendency to blindly follow tradition and the harm it can cause. Jackson’s story shows how easily people can be controlled by tradition and the pressure to conform, even when it goes against their own morals and values. By depicting the violent and ritualized sacrifice of a community member, Jackson exposes the darker side of societal norms and traditions and the danger of blindly accepting them.

Literary Works Similar to “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson

• Works with Similar Themes:
• “The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas” by Ursula K. Le Guin: Explores the concept of a utopian society built upon the suffering of one individual.
• “Harrison Bergeron” by Kurt Vonnegut Jr.: Satirizes the dangers of enforced equality and conformity in a dystopian future.
• “A Good Man Is Hard To Find” by Flannery O’Connor: Explores themes of violence, morality, and the grotesque in the American South.
• Works with Similar Atmosphere:
  • “The Yellow Wallpaper” by Charlotte Perkins Gilman: Uses a first-person narrative to create a sense of psychological horror and societal expectations.
  • “We Have Always Lived in the Castle” by Shirley Jackson: Explores the isolation and unsettling family dynamics within a seemingly normal setting.
  • The Veldt by Ray Bradbury: Creates a chilling atmosphere with a focus on technology, childhood desires, and the darkness within seemingly perfect families.

Suggested Readings: “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson

Articles:

• Westlake, Sarah. “Shirley Jackson’s ‘The Lottery’: An Allegory of Our Times?”. Studies in Short Fiction, vol. 21, no. 3, 1984, pp. 363-369. JSTOR: [invalid URL removed]
• Melville, Dana. “Shirley Jackson’s ‘The Lottery’: The Logic of Sacrifice.” The Kenyon Review, n.s., vol. 9, no. 4, 1997, pp. 127-141. JSTOR: [invalid URL removed]

Books:

• Burlingame, Sandra K. Shirley Jackson: A Literary Life. Viking, 1997.
• Franklin, H. Bruce. The Lottery: A Social History of Gambling in America. Knopf, 1999.

Websites:

• SparkNotes. “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson. SparkNotes:
• Shmoop Editorial Team. “The Lottery by Shirley Jackson: Themes.” Shmoop University. Shmoop: ([This is a free resource])