Thesis: Shirley Jackson insisted on adding extra forms of symbolism throughout the story. What could be the reasoning behind the added symbolism? I. Symbolism tells us the meanings of certain events in the story by referring to an object, the box and control A. The box is a form of tradition that this town is accustomed to. Although the box is old a worn it is still very relevant in this town. People speak of getting rid of the box, but everyone knows this is something that will continue to live on. B. Control is the politics that the town holds over its people. The lottery is the variable of control that allows people to kill their friends and neighbors once a year. They feel its justified and not considered murder because they are planting a “good harvest” (Jackson, 252) C. Describing the box as “Shabby” Splintered and Stained” (Jackson, 251) allows the readers to understand that this was a lasting tradition of the town. Their was always talk of making a new box, but no one wanted to upset tradition.
II. Jackson creates irony throughout the story in order to relate the “Lottery” to winning. A. ‘The lottery was conducted-as were the square dances, the teenage club, the Halloween program-by Mr. Summers, who had time and energy to devote to civic activities. (251) B. Mr. Summers spoke frequently to the villagers about making a new box, but no one like to upset even as much tradition as was represented by the black box. C. “Lottery in June corn be heavy soon” Before Old man Warner makes this statement the reader has no idea when the lottery will take place. The town seemed anxious and excited for the lottery, with all of the town (Women, Children and Men) showing up early for it. They justified the lottery as pleasing the gods and hoping for enough harvest.
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III. Finally, is the Lottery just a mere act of murder, or is it justified under the term tradition.”
A. “We have done it for so long, must be some good.”
B. “Be a good sport Tessie…..we all took the same chance.” C. “All right folks, Let’s finish quickly.”
Restated Thesis: Although the towns outlook on the “Lottery” may be pleasing the gods to them. It shows how they control the fate of their neighbors and friends by a draw of the lottery to select a “winner”. But is it really winning?
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