The Power Dynamics and Social Commentary in Shirley Jackson's "The Lottery"

Introduction

Traditions have the ability to shape society in profound ways, whether that be for the better or worse. Shirley Jackson's short story "The Lottery" is a thought-provoking tale about the power dynamics and social commentary that can be present in such traditions. Despite being written over seventy years ago, the story still continues to be controversial and evocative in its social critique. This essay will provide a careful analysis of the narrative elements and themes of "The Lottery" to reveal the significant social commentary present in the text.

Summary of "The Lottery"

"The Lottery" tells the story of a small town that has an annual lottery where all the residents draw slips of paper to determine the 'winner'. Unlike most lotteries, the 'winner' in this case is sacrificed at the hands of their fellow town members. The narrative primarily focuses on the character of Tessie Hutchinson, who ultimately draws the slip that condemns her. The title of the story is significant as it creates a sense of intrigue and anticipation for the reader, making them curious about the nature of the lottery and its outcome.

Literary Analysis of "The Lottery"

Setting and atmosphere

• The town's ordinary and cheerful appearance is significant in creating the suspenseful atmosphere. It presents a stark contrast to the violent act that ultimately takes place.
• The day and time frame of the lottery, a bright and sunny morning in late June, create a sense of anticipation and irony. The fact that such a violent act is occurring on a beautiful day is unexpected and jarring for the reader.

Characters and their roles

• Tessie Hutchinson represents the common person in society who may blindly follow traditions without questioning their morality or purpose until it is too late. Her ultimate fate serves as a warning against such complacency.
• Mr. Summers, who runs the event, embodies the leader of the community and how they are potentially complicit in the societal norms and traditions that can have dangerous consequences.

Symbolism and themes

• The lottery is a symbol of blindly following harmful traditions. It reveals the danger of unquestioning adherence to societal norms that can ultimately lead to destructive outcomes.
• The theme of sacrifice is also central to the story and how it relates to societal norms. The lottery underscores the lengths people are willing to go to uphold these norms, even if it means sacrificing someone in their community.

Narrative techniques

• Jackson expertly uses foreshadowing and suspense to build tension in the story. The reader is aware that something terrible is going to happen but is left in the dark about precisely what until the very end.
• The use of the third-person limited point of view creates a sense of detachment from the events and characters, making the ultimate outcome even more shocking.

Social Commentary in "The Lottery"

Critique of conformity and unquestioning acceptance in society

"The Lottery" criticizes societies where people blindly adhere to traditions and cultural practices without critically examining their consequences. The allegorical representation of a small town where even the young children are aware of the ritualized violence demonstrates the potentially dangerous consequences of such conformist tendencies in society.

Portrayal of mob mentality and its dangers

Jackson draws attention to the dangers of mob mentality and how it can lead to violence and destruction. The ultimate outcome of the lottery highlights how even seemingly rational people can be swept up in a group mentality that leads them to commit heinous acts.

Parallels between the allegorical society in "The Lottery" and real-life societal structures

"The Lottery" can be read as a commentary on real-life societal structures that uphold entrenched systems of oppression. By critiquing the societal norms and traditions within the allegorical town, Jackson invites readers to reflect on the dangers of blindly upholding societal norms and traditions that may have dangerous and oppressive outcomes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, "The Lottery" is a powerful representation of the dangers of blindly following traditions without questioning their roots, morality, and consequences. Through a careful analysis of the narrative elements and themes present in the story, this essay has revealed the power dynamics and societal commentary present within "The Lottery." The story still commands attention due to the themes it explores and the social commentary it provides. The reader is left questioning the role of tradition in society and the responsibility of individuals in shaping a just and equitable future.

References

1. Jackson, S. (1948). The lottery. The New Yorker, 26.
2. Oehlschlaeger, F. (1974). The Stoning of Mistress Hutchinson: Meaning and Context in “The Lottery”. Modern Language Association, 89(1), 22-32.
3. Friedman, L. M. (2015). “The Lottery”: A Common Core Exemplar. National Council of Teachers of English.