Foreshadowing The Lottery

The use of foreshadowing is a powerful literary technique that can create suspense, anticipation, and tension in a story. In Shirley Jackson's short story "The Lottery," the author employs various instances of foreshadowing to hint at the shocking conclusion. Through these subtle hints, Jackson builds a sense of unease and foreboding that culminates in a disturbing climax. This essay will explore the various instances of foreshadowing in "The Lottery" and analyze their significance in shaping the narrative and creating a sense of dread for the reader.

Foreshadowing is evident from the very beginning of the story, as the author sets the stage for the lottery with descriptions of the townspeople gathering in the square. The seemingly innocuous setting is filled with subtle hints that something sinister is about to occur. For example, the children are described as "gathering stones" and "making a great pile of stones in one corner of the square" (Jackson). This seemingly innocent activity takes on a darker tone as the story progresses, foreshadowing the violent and ritualistic nature of the lottery.

Furthermore, the behavior of the townspeople also serves as a form of foreshadowing. The casual conversations and exchanges among the villagers create an atmosphere of normalcy and routine, masking the underlying tension and unease that permeates the community. For instance, the dialogue between Mr. Summers and Mr. Graves about the lottery's preparations seems mundane on the surface, but it hints at the ominous nature of the event. Mr. Summers remarks, "There's always been a lottery," to which Mr. Graves replies, "There's always been a lottery" (Jackson). This repetition underscores the sense of inevitability and tradition surrounding the lottery, foreshadowing its dark and unyielding nature.

Another significant instance of foreshadowing occurs with the mention of the black box used in the lottery. The box is described as "shabby" and "growing shabbier every year" (Jackson). This description serves as a visual cue to the reader, hinting at the decay and deterioration of the town's traditions. The deteriorating condition of the box symbolizes the decay of the lottery's purpose and the moral degradation of the townspeople, foreshadowing the disturbing nature of the ritual.

Additionally, the behavior of certain characters in the story also foreshadows the shocking conclusion. Tessie Hutchinson, for example, arrives late to the lottery and exhibits a sense of nervousness and apprehension. Her reluctance to participate in the event and her attempt to make her husband take her place foreshadows her ultimate fate as the chosen sacrifice. Her behavior serves as a subtle warning to the reader, hinting at the dark and violent outcome of the lottery.

In conclusion, "The Lottery" is a masterful example of the use of foreshadowing to create a sense of dread and anticipation in the reader. Through subtle hints and cues, Shirley Jackson builds a foreboding atmosphere that culminates in a shocking and disturbing climax. The use of foreshadowing in the setting, dialogue, symbolism, and character behavior serves to shape the narrative and create a sense of unease and tension. By analyzing these instances of foreshadowing, we gain a deeper understanding of the story's underlying themes and the author's intent. "The Lottery" serves as a chilling reminder of the dangers of blindly following tradition and the destructive power of mob mentality. This essay has explored the various instances of foreshadowing in the story and their significance in shaping the narrative, ultimately highlighting the profound impact of this literary technique on the reader's experience.

Works Cited:

Jackson, Shirley. "The Lottery." The New Yorker, 1948.

Bibliography:

Jackson, Shirley. "The Lottery." The New Yorker, 1948.