close
test_template

Themes in Shirley Jackson's The Lottery

Human-Written
download print

About this sample

About this sample

close
Human-Written

Words: 469 |

Page: 1|

3 min read

Published: Feb 12, 2024

Words: 469|Page: 1|3 min read

Published: Feb 12, 2024

Table of contents

  1. Introduction
  2. The Major Themes
  3. Conclusion
  4. References:

Introduction

Shirley Jackson's masterpiece, "The Lottery," provides a chilling depiction of a small town where a traditional event called "the lottery" takes place. In this essay, we will explore three major themes in the story: human nature, the influence of traditions on community, and gender roles. These themes are closely interconnected and shed light on people's attitudes towards important societal processes. By examining these themes, we can gain a deeper understanding of the negative aspects of human behavior.

The Major Themes

Jackson skillfully brings attention to the darker aspects of human nature, emphasizing these themes throughout the story. The first theme, human nature, is portrayed in a negative light. The cruelty exhibited in the event serves as a reflection of the violence that exists within individuals and their interactions with one another. The town, which appears ordinary on the surface, is desensitized to the stoning of the "winner," even involving children who willingly participate in collecting the "murder weapon." This theme reveals the inherent cruelty that lies within seemingly ordinary people.

The second central theme is the tradition of the lottery itself. This tradition complements the theme of human nature by exemplifying the negative influence traditions can have on society. Despite the lack of understanding regarding the origins and purpose of the event, the town continues to conduct it, disregarding the cruelty involved in taking a life. The black box, used to hold the paper slips with names, symbolizes society's inability to let go of outdated traditions. Despite discussions about replacing the box, the town persistently adheres to the cruel lottery. Through this theme, Jackson emphasizes the absurdity of blindly following traditions.

The third theme explores the family structure and gender roles within the town. Jackson highlights the dominant position of males in society by depicting the father as the one who draws the slip of paper. Additionally, daughters are expected to participate with their husbands' families, highlighting the social inequity between men and women. This theme exposes the unfairness of a male-dominated social structure within the town.

Get a custom paper now from our expert writers.

Conclusion

"The Lottery" is a thought-provoking piece of literature that unveils the negative aspects of human behavior. The three major themes of human nature, blind adherence to irrational traditions, and a male-dominated social structure are expertly portrayed throughout the story. The absence of reasons to continue the tradition and the normalization of violence in the lottery serve as evidence for the first two themes. The third theme is evident in the initial rules of the event, which establish the dominant position of males. Together, these themes shed light on the imperfections of human nature and societal structures. Jackson's work serves as a cautionary tale, urging readers to reflect on the darker aspects of human behavior and the consequences of blindly adhering to harmful traditions.

References:

  1. Jackson, S. (1948). The Lottery. The New Yorker. Retrieved from https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/1948/06/26/the-lottery
Image of Dr. Oliver Johnson
This essay was reviewed by
Dr. Oliver Johnson

Cite this Essay

Themes in Shirley Jackson’s The Lottery. (2024, February 12). GradesFixer. Retrieved November 8, 2024, from https://gradesfixer.com/free-essay-examples/themes-in-shirley-jacksons-the-lottery/
“Themes in Shirley Jackson’s The Lottery.” GradesFixer, 12 Feb. 2024, gradesfixer.com/free-essay-examples/themes-in-shirley-jacksons-the-lottery/
Themes in Shirley Jackson’s The Lottery. [online]. Available at: <https://gradesfixer.com/free-essay-examples/themes-in-shirley-jacksons-the-lottery/> [Accessed 8 Nov. 2024].
Themes in Shirley Jackson’s The Lottery [Internet]. GradesFixer. 2024 Feb 12 [cited 2024 Nov 8]. Available from: https://gradesfixer.com/free-essay-examples/themes-in-shirley-jacksons-the-lottery/
copy
Keep in mind: This sample was shared by another student.
  • 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
  • Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours
Write my essay

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

close

Where do you want us to send this sample?

    By clicking “Continue”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

    close

    Be careful. This essay is not unique

    This essay was donated by a student and is likely to have been used and submitted before

    Download this Sample

    Free samples may contain mistakes and not unique parts

    close

    Sorry, we could not paraphrase this essay. Our professional writers can rewrite it and get you a unique paper.

    close

    Thanks!

    Please check your inbox.

    We can write you a custom essay that will follow your exact instructions and meet the deadlines. Let's fix your grades together!

    clock-banner-side

    Get Your
    Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

    exit-popup-close
    We can help you get a better grade and deliver your task on time!
    • Instructions Followed To The Letter
    • Deadlines Met At Every Stage
    • Unique And Plagiarism Free
    Order your paper now