the lottery essay prompt pdf

The Lottery Essay Questions, Prompts, & Topics

“The Lottery” is one of those stories that can be interpreted in a million different ways. The author brings up many cultural, social, and even political issues for discussion. It is so controversial that the readers were sending hate mails to Jackson!

Did you receive a writing assignment on “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson? Have no idea where to start? Don’t panic! Sometimes you can find it hard to decide on one topic when there are so many options. This short story also has many Easter eggs to analyze. Custom-Writing.org experts created this list of the best ideas for the essay and “The Lottery” essay questions to help you out!

• 💡 Essay Topics
• ✍️ Writing Prompts
• ❓ Essay Questions
• ✒️ Essay Samples

💡 The Lottery: Essay Topics

Don’t know where to start your essay on “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson? Check out the prompts to help you write a successful paper!

• Literary analysis essay on “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson . For this task, you would need to work through the main themes of the story . However, to make it easier, you might want to focus on one topic at a time. For instance, write about the role of tradition and how powerful it can be.
• How are gender roles represented in the story? Look closer to how the roles are divided in this fictional society. There is violence against women, but it doesn’t seem like they are allowed to play victims. Can you catch a glimpse of sexism in some situations? You might as well draw some parallels with the real world.
• How much do traditions affect our lives? “The Lottery” as an example . In this analysis essay on “The Lottery”, you are asked to elaborate on the central theme of the story. Shirley Jackson shows tradition to be so strong and powerful in this society that the rational mind can’t even bring others to reason.
• Social classes in “The Lottery” . Are there any characters in the short story that may seem a bit more privileged than the others? All villagers seem to be in the same boat with equal rights. What about Mr. Summers? His name is on the list, and he draws with everybody else, but doesn’t he have more powers?
• The psychology of the crowd in the short story . You are asked to write an argumentative essay on “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson. Look for some strong arguments to support the idea. However, there is no need to come up with complicated psychoanalytic theories. Focus on your personal opinion and add some quotes.
• Hidden symbols in Shirley Jackson’s story . Here, it would help if you worked on literary analysis for a little bit. There are some apparent symbols, such as the black box and the stones. But how many more can you find? For example, look at the importance of households and write a symbolism essay on “The Lottery”.
• Investigate the phenomenon of hypocrisy in “The Lottery” . The villagers can be friendly and kind to their neighbors before the ritual begins . However, as soon as they know the results, they immediately turn against “the winner.” Tessie seems like she would do the same, but when she appears to be the chosen one, it doesn’t please her at all.
• Tessie Hutchinson as a scapegoat in “The Lottery” . What can make you think that the main character serves as a scapegoat for the villagers? She might not have a good reputation among them. What do you think drives them to stone her to death? Start a debate on this issue, and don’t forget to use our literature study guide!
• The significance of names in Shirley Jackson’s story . You might have noticed the specifics of the main characters’ names. For instance, Mr. Summers fits perfectly in the setting of a beautiful summer day. Mr. Delacroix, in his turn, carries some hidden religious meaning if you look up the translation. Can you find any other meaningful names?
• What is the central message of “The Lottery”? You might have thought about it after reading the summary of the short story. Well, there is no specific answer because everything depends on your perspective. It may concern social or political issues or whatever you prefer. It is what makes your essay so unique, isn’t it?

✍️ The Lottery Writing Prompts

These “The Lottery” essay prompts will help you find inspiration and overcome the fear of a blank page.

The Lottery Tradition Essay Prompt

• Explain why it’s hard to let go of traditions. Use “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson to prove your point. In your essay, analyze the quote, “Lottery in June, corn be heavy soon.” Try to find the reasons why people may keep following traditions even when they become redundant.
• Should rituals and traditions exist in the contemporary world? There are still many cases of cruel customs today. For instance, in some African tribes, certain rituals can lead to grave injuries. Examine the tradition in “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson. Is it morally adequate? Should we ban such traditions or let them remain in certain societies and countries? Share your ideas.

The Lottery Argumentative Essay Prompt

• Why do you think characters in “The Lottery” willingly join the ritual? Tessie doesn’t try to disobey or run despite knowing the cruel outcome. In your paper, study the causes of such behavior.
• Why did Tessie call the ritual “unfair”? At the very end of the story, Tessie is picked by people as a sacrifice. Before that, she complained that nobody had given her a choice during the lottery. In your essay, elucidate her accusations. Present your point of view on whether or not the ritual was just.

The Lottery Point of View Essay Prompt

• What do you think about the narrative style of Jackson’s story? In your paper, scrutinize the literary techniques the author uses. How does it add to the narrative? Use examples from the story to prove your point.
• Could “The Lottery” be told from the first person? How would you change the plot if you were to write it from the POV of one of the characters? Which character is best for that role? Provide answers in your essay.

The Lottery Ending Essay Prompt

• How would you alter the final segment of Jackson’s short story? Did you enjoy it in general? In your essay, review the ending and express your feelings about it. Propose a few alternative ways of finishing the story.
• What is the symbolic meaning of the final segment in “The Lottery”? Why did Shirley Jackson choose that specific way of finishing her story? Try to clarify why the story ends the way it did. What are the reasons behind such a cruel finale? Provide the answer in your essay.

❓ The Lottery Essay Questions

• Was the ritual in Jackson’s story an example of herd behavior?
• Is there a way to bring down the cruel tradition from “The Lottery,” in your opinion?
• What makes people commit cruel and inhumane actions, according to Jackson’s story?
• Is the ritual just an excuse to brutally murder someone?
• What are the central themes of Shirley Jackson’s “The Lottery”?
• What are the symbolic meanings behind objects that villagers use?
• Why did nobody try to stop the ritual, in your opinion?
• Is there gender equality in the society from “The Lottery”?
• How can ideas from this story be implemented in real life?
• What is the role of group and social pressure in rituals?
• Should we follow traditions even if they are redundant, according to “The Lottery”?
• Are there any positive traits of villagers in Jackson’s story?

✒️ The Lottery: Essay Samples

Below you’ll find a collection of “The Lottery” essay examples. You are welcome to use them for inspiration!

• Point of View in “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson
• The Lottery Analysis: Essay on Shirley Jackson’s Short Story
• The Lottery: Literary Analysis
• Groupthink Notion in “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson
• Gothic Horror in “The Lottery”
• Foreshadowing in The Lottery by Shirley Jackson
• Crowd Impersonation in “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson
• Gender Equality in Jackson’s “The Lottery”
• Herd Behavior in “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson
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169 The Lottery Essay Topics & Questions for Analysis and Argumentative Papers

“The Lottery” is a chilling short story by Shirley Jackson.

Each year, the townspeople gather to hold a lottery. After winning the local lottery, the winners don’t receive any money. Instead, they are stoned to death. Shirley Jackson portrays the brutal and senseless violence lurking beneath the surface of an ordinary small town.

Continue reading this article to find various topic selections and essay prompts. And don’t forget about a bonus at the end: a writing guide for an essay on “The Lottery.”

⭐ Top 12 The Lottery Essay Topics

✏️ the lottery essay prompts.

• 🤔 The Lottery Analysis Essay
• 💡 The Lottery Argumentative Essay

❓ The Lottery Essay Questions

• ✔️ Bonus Essay Topics
• 📋 The Lottery Essay Outline

🔗 References

• The role of tradition in Shirley Jackson’s “The Lottery.”
• The power of groupthink in “The Lottery.”
• Symbolism and foreshadowing in “The Lottery.”
• The use of irony in “The Lottery.”
• The significance of the title in “The Lottery.”
• The relationship between gender and violence in “The Lottery.”
• The theme of blind obedience in “The Lottery.”
• The significance of the black box in “The Lottery.”
• The role of fear in “The Lottery.”
• The importance of setting in “The Lottery.”
• The theme of human nature in “The Lottery.”
• The role of sacrifice in “The Lottery.”

Don’t know where to start your essay on “The Lottery”? The writing prompts below can help you find inspiration for your paper.

Symbolism in The Lottery: Essay Prompt

In Shirley Jackson’s “The Lottery,” symbolism is significant in conveying the story’s themes and underlying messages. Discuss how it is used in the story. Explain how symbolism contributes to the overall meaning of the work.

Consider the following symbols: the black box, the stones, and the lottery itself.

• What do these symbols represent?
• How do they reflect the story’s central themes of tradition, violence, and conformity?
• How does Jackson’s use of symbolism create tension and build toward the story’s shocking conclusion?

Use evidence from the text to support your analysis .

The Lottery Theme: Essay Prompt

In Shirley Jackson’s “The Lottery,” the author explores the theme of blind obedience.

In your essay, provide examples from the text that support this theme. You can use the story’s climax as an illustration. Describe how Tessie’s selection as the sacrificial victim highlights the consequences of mindlessly following authority.

You may also discuss how the story’s message can be applied to real-world situations. You could write about politics, religion, or social norms. Explain how it can serve as a warning to people who are led by society.

Setting of the Lottery: Essay Prompt

In Shirley Jackson’s “The Lottery,” the setting is essential to the story’s meaning. Analyze how it contributes to the overall theme and message.

• Describe how the setting creates a sense of familiarity and unease for the reader. You can also define how it foreshadows the eventual violence and horror of the lottery.
• Consider how the small-town atmosphere, with its traditions and social hierarchies, contributes to the theme. Discuss how the story’s setting reflects the period in which it was written. Write about the social pressures in post-World War II America.
• Explain why the story’s setting resonates with contemporary readers and how it contributes to its impact.

Prompt for Compare and Contrast Essay on The Lottery and The Hunger Games

Shirley Jackson’s “The Lottery” and Suzanne Collins’s “The Hunger Games” explore the theme of ritualized violence. You can compare and contrast the portrayal of this theme in the two texts.

• Consider the similarities and differences between how the societies in each story use ritualized violence.
• Compare the protagonists of each story, Katniss Everdeen and Tessie Hutchinson. Describe how they respond to the violence in their respective societies.
• Discuss how each story uses the theme of ritualized violence to comment on real-world issues, for instance, the effects of societal structures and power dynamics on individual agency.
• Define which story offers a more effective critique of the dangers of ritualized violence in society.

🤔 Topics for The Lottery Analysis Essay

Below, we’ve selected the best Lottery essay topics for your literary analysis paper. Check them out to get inspired!

The Lottery Critical Analysis Essay: Topics

• Symbolism in “The Lottery”: the deeper meaning behind the lottery process.
• The theme of blind adherence to tradition in “The Lottery.”
• The role of violence in “The Lottery” and its impact on the plot.
• The social commentary on conformity and collective psychology in “The Lottery.”
• Psychological effects of the lottery on the characters in Shirley Jackson’s story.
• The role of fear and manipulation in “The Lottery.”
• Analyzing the use of suspense and foreshadowing in the story.
• The theme of sacrifice in “The Lottery” and its implications.
• The concept of scapegoating in “The Lottery.”
• The significance of the black box and its symbolism in “The Lottery.”
• The portrayal of mob mentality and its consequences in “The Lottery.”
• Evaluating the portrayal of community dynamics in the story.
• The ethical implications of withholding information in “The Lottery.”
• The use of irony and its purpose in “The Lottery.”
• Analyzing the role of gender and power dynamics in “The Lottery.”
• Comparing the lottery in “The Lottery” to real-world rituals and traditions.
• The portrayal of power structures and hierarchies in “The Lottery.”
• Analyzing the connection between tradition and progress in “The Lottery.”
• Exploring the historical and cultural context of “The Lottery.”
• The use of setting and atmosphere to enhance the narrative in “The Lottery.”

Topics for The Lottery Character Analysis Essay

• Tessie Hutchinson’s transformation throughout “The Lottery.”
• Old Man Warner: analyzing the role of tradition and fear in shaping his character.
• Mr. Summers: examining the character’s influence and authority within the lottery process.
• Understanding Bill Hutchinson’s motives and actions in relation to the lottery.
• Mrs. Delacroix: analyzing her participation and reaction in the lottery drawing.
• The impact of the lottery on children in the story.
• Mr. Graves’s role as the lottery official and his attitude toward the event.
• Mrs. Adams’s perspective and relationship with the lottery tradition.
• The motivations and decision-making process of the Lottery Committee.
• The Villagers: analyzing the collective mindset and conformity of the community.
• Old Man Warner’s Grandchildren: the potential impact of the lottery on future generations.
• Comparing and contrasting the characters’ reactions to the lottery.
• The portrayal of female characters in “The Lottery” and their role in perpetuating the violence.
• Gender roles and dynamics portrayed in the characters of “The Lottery.”
• The symbolism associated with each character in “The Lottery.”
• The characters’ moral and ethical dilemmas concerning the lottery.
• The characters’ motivations for upholding or questioning the lottery tradition.
• The impact of social pressure and conformity on the characters’ actions in the lottery.
• Analyzing the characters’ perspectives on sacrifice in “The Lottery.”
• Critiquing the absence of empathy and compassion in the characters of “The Lottery.”

The Lottery Literary Analysis Essay: Topics

• The use of symbolism in shaping the characters and themes in “The Lottery.”
• Exploring dramatic irony in the character interactions of “The Lottery.”
• “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson: literary analysis .
• The role of foreshadowing in developing suspense and tension in the story.
• The use of setting to enhance the atmosphere and mood in “The Lottery.”
• The significance of the black box as a central literary device in the story.
• The use of irony in the characterizations and actions of the villagers.
• Allegory in “The Lottery” and its impact on the interpretation of the characters.
• The use of repetition and ritualistic language in the lottery process and its effect on the characters.
• The contrast between appearance and reality through literary devices in “The Lottery.”
• The role of allusion in deepening the meaning and implications of the characters’ actions.
• The use of suspense and pacing to engage readers and heighten the character development.
• Situational irony in the characters’ acceptance and participation in the lottery.
• Symbolism of Shirley Jackson’s “The Lottery.”
• Dialogue as a literary device revealing the characters’ attitudes and beliefs in “The Lottery.”
• The use of metaphor and simile in describing characters and their actions in “The Lottery.”
• The impact of point of view as a narrative device in “The Lottery.”
• The role of satire and irony in critiquing societal norms and the characters’ adherence to them in “The Lottery.”
• The use of ambiguity and uncertainty in shaping the readers’ perceptions of the characters.
• Irony and paradox in the characters’ motivations and decision-making.
• The role of personification in “The Lottery.”
• Cliffhangers and unresolved situations as the means of suspense in “The Lottery.”

💡 Topics for The Lottery Argumentative Essay

• The portrayal of blind conformity in “The Lottery” as a critique of societal norms.
• “The Lottery” as a powerful allegory for the dangers of tradition and ritualistic behavior.
• The role of the black box in “The Lottery” as a symbol of oppression and control.
• Critiquing the role of the individual in “The Lottery” and the consequences of collective action.
• “The Lottery” as a commentary on the dangers of mob mentality and groupthink.
• The lottery as an instrument of social control and manipulation in “The Lottery”.
• Suspense and tension in “The Lottery” provoke thought and discussion.
• The representation of sacrifice and its ethical implications in “The Lottery.”
• The lottery as a reflection of the dark side of human nature in “The Lottery”.
• The consequences of blindly upholding tradition and its relevance in “The Lottery.”
• The theme of social inequality and discrimination in “The Lottery.”
• The role of fear in perpetuating the lottery tradition in “The Lottery.”
• Arguments for the abolishment of the lottery in the story.
• The lottery as a representation of the human capacity for cruelty and violence.
• The manipulation of fear and the maintenance of control in “The Lottery.”
• The lottery as a reflection of societal values and priorities in “The Lottery”.
• The lottery as a tool for social cohesion and unity in “The Lottery”.
• The portrayal of dehumanization and the loss of individuality in “The Lottery.”
• Critiquing the role of randomness and chance in the lottery drawing in the story.
• The lottery as a symbol of fatalistic thinking and resignation to one’s fate.
• The role of tradition in “The Lottery” and its resistance to change and progress.
• Critically analyzing the villagers’ belief in the lottery and its justification.
• The lottery as a reflection of the human desire for control and dominance.
• The characters’ absence of agency and free will in “The Lottery.”
• Critiquing the portrayal of community and its values in “The Lottery.”
• The lottery as a commentary on the dangers of following traditions without questioning.
• The portrayal of surprise and shock in “The Lottery” and its effects on the characters.
• Lessons about collective responsibility and guilt learned from “The Lottery.”
• The lottery as a reflection of the human tendency to participate in harmful practices.
• The portrayal of sanity and madness in “The Lottery.”
• Critically analyzing the representation of violence and its consequences in “The Lottery.”
• The lottery as a metaphor for the injustices and cruelties in the real world.
• Individual responsibility in a deterministic society as portrayed in “The Lottery.”
• The relevance and significance of “The Lottery” in contemporary society.
• The transformation of Bill Hutchinson’s character from a passive bystander to a victim.
• How does “The Lottery” satirically critique blind adherence to tradition?
• What role does symbolism play in “The Lottery,” and how does it enhance the story’s meaning?
• Is the lottery ritual in the story a representation of mob mentality, and if so, how?
• Does “The Lottery” effectively challenge the concept of a just and fair society?
• How does Shirley Jackson use foreshadowing to build suspense in “The Lottery”?
• What is the meaning of recurring references to food and feasting in the story?
• Is there any significance to the selection of Tessie Hutchinson as the sacrifice in “The Lottery”?
• In what ways does “The Lottery” explore the theme of conformity and its dangers?
• Is the violence depicted in “The Lottery” necessary for the story’s impact, or could it have been portrayed differently?
• What does the ending of “The Lottery” suggest about the human capacity for cruelty?
• How does Shirley Jackson use irony to convey her message in “The Lottery”?
• Is there any redeeming value to the lottery tradition portrayed in the story, or is it solely a negative portrayal?
• Who can be the real audience of “The Lottery,” and how does it affect the understanding of the story?
• Why does no one in the town openly resist the lottery?
• Is “The Lottery” primarily a critique of societal norms or a commentary on human nature?
• What commentary does “The Lottery” make about the arbitrary nature of violence in society?
• Are there any sympathetic characters in “The Lottery,” or are they all complicit in the violent tradition?
• What does “The Lottery” suggest about the cyclical nature of violence and oppression?
• Does “The Lottery” serve as a critique of organized religion and its potential for harm?
• How does the public nature of the lottery in the story influence the characters’ participation?
• Is there any significance to the fact that the lottery tradition has been passed down through generations?
• How does “The Lottery” challenge the notion of the inherent goodness of human beings?
• Is “The Lottery” a commentary on the dehumanizing effects of a strict social hierarchy?
• What is the significance of the date and time of year the lottery takes place in the story?
• How does the fear of punishment influence the characters’ obedience to the lottery tradition?
• Do the characters in “The Lottery” have any agency in their participation, or are they merely victims of tradition?
• Is “The Lottery” an effective critique of the concept of luck and chance in society?
• How does the portrayal of children in “The Lottery” contribute to the story’s tone and message?
• What role do the women in “The Lottery” play in upholding the tradition and perpetuating the violence?
• Is there a deeper meaning to the significance of the stones as the chosen method of execution in “The Lottery”?
• What is the purpose and impact of the seemingly banal conversations and interactions among the characters in the story?
• Does “The Lottery” explore the theme of sacrifice and its relevance to societal structures?
• How does the use of a small-town setting in “The Lottery” contribute to the story’s overall impact?
• Does “The Lottery” suggest that violence and oppression are inherent in human nature, or are they products of societal structures?
• How does the character of Tessie Hutchinson challenge or conform to societal expectations in “The Lottery”?
• Does “The Lottery” critique the role of gender in enforcing and perpetuating harmful societal traditions?
• In what ways does “The Lottery” comment on the dangers of passivity and indifference in the face of injustice?
• How does the portrayal of the lottery tradition in “The Lottery” relate to real-world rituals and customs?
• How do the names of the characters, such as Mr. Summers and Mr. Graves, contribute to the story’s themes and symbolism?
• Why did Jackson decide not to include details about the lottery’s origin and purpose?

✔️ Bonus Essay Topics for The Lottery by Shirley Jackson

• The psychological impact of the lottery on the villagers in Shirley Jackson’s “The Lottery.”
• The historical context of “The Lottery” and its relevance today.
• The paradoxical nature of community in Shirley Jackson’s “The Lottery.”
• The significance of Shirley Jackson’s legacy and her impact on modern horror literature through “The Lottery.”
• The significance of the title “The Lottery” and its connection to fate.
• The use of suspense and surprise endings in Shirley Jackson’s “The Lottery.”
• Shirley Jackson’s personal experiences and how they influenced “The Lottery.”
• The role of tradition in shaping societal norms in “The Lottery” and its relevance today.
• The significance of the date June 27th in “The Lottery.”
• The portrayal of mental illness in “The Lottery” and its societal implications.
• The role of education in challenging societal norms in “The Lottery.”
• The portrayal of masculinity in “The Lottery” and its connection to power dynamics.
• Shirley Jackson’s legacy and influence on modern literature.
• The impact of “The Lottery” on the literary world and its reception at the time of publication.
• The controversy surrounding “The Lottery” and its banning in certain schools and communities.
• The portrayal of the elderly in “The Lottery” and their societal marginalization.
• The theme of sacrifice and its connection to the American Dream in “The Lottery.”
• The role of tradition and ritual in shaping modern society as explored in “The Lottery”.
• The significance of the lottery as a form of entertainment in “The Lottery.”
• The relevance of “The Lottery” in contemporary conformity and social pressure discussions.

📋 The Lottery by Shirley Jackson: Essay Outline

Do you want to write an A+ essay about “The Lottery”? We’ve prepared a writing guide to help you with this task.

The Lottery Essay Introduction

Your introduction should grab the reader’s attention. To do so, you’ll need to start with a hook — it is a statement or question that captures the reader’s interest and makes them want to keep reading. Look at the example:

Hook: Imagine living in a small town where the annual tradition is choosing who would be stoned to death. Would you participate in such a ritual or rebel against it?

After that, you should provide some context for the topic. Background information helps the readers understand what the paper will be about. Here’s an example of how it might look:

Background information: First published in 1948, the story shocked readers with its portrayal of a seemingly idyllic community that engages in a horrific act of violence.

The last sentence of the introduction should be your thesis statement .

Thesis Statement for The Lottery

A thesis statement is a claim or argument that addresses the prompt or topic of an essay. It should be concise and debatable and provide a roadmap for the rest of the paper. A good thesis statement should also reflect the writer’s position. This sentence is supposed to guide the reader’s understanding of the essay’s main point.

Consider “The Lottery” thesis statement example:

Thesis statement: “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson uses the brutal ritual of a small town’s annual lottery to criticize the dangers of blindly following tradition and highlight the inherent violence and cruelty thriving beneath seemingly peaceful communities.

Essay on The Lottery: Body Paragraphs

When writing body paragraphs, it’s important to focus on one main idea or argument per paragraph.

Each paragraph should start with a topic sentence . It should state the main point and link the paragraph to the previous one. Here’s an example:

Topic sentence: The use of foreshadowing in “The Lottery” creates a sense of unease and tension throughout the story.

A topic sentence is followed by supporting sentences . Each supporting sentence should provide evidence, examples, or analysis to back up the paragraph’s main idea. Use specific details from the story to support your claims and explain how they relate to your argument. Check out this example:

Supporting evidence: From the opening scene, where the villagers gather in the town square, there are hints of something ominous about to happen. The children are gathering stones, and the adults are murmuring uneasily.

The Lottery Essay Conclusion

The conclusion is the final section of an essay that summarizes the main arguments and closes the discussion. To write a good conclusion, restate the thesis statement and summarize the main points. Here’s an example of how a paraphrased thesis might look:

Restated thesis: Shirley Jackson’s “The Lottery” describes the violent tradition of an annual lottery in a small town to critique the ones conforming to traditions while also bringing attention to violence and brutality that may exist in places that look quiet at first sight.

To end a text, you should wrap up the discussion and provide closure for the reader. You can do it by offering a final thought, insight, or a call to action.

It’s important to avoid introducing new information or arguments in a conclusion. It can confuse or frustrate your audience. Instead, focus on bringing the discussion to a satisfying and meaningful end that leaves a lasting impression.

We hope our list of topics and writing guide have been helpful. You can also try our online topic generator to always have fresh ideas for your paper.

• The Lottery: Themes | SparkNotes
• Reading and Discussion Questions on Shirley Jackson’s “The Lottery” | Washington State University
• Study Guide to Shirley Jackson’s “The Lottery” | Kansas State University
• The Lottery Themes | Shmoop
• Analysis of “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson | ThoughtCo
• “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson | University of Hawaii
• The Lottery Themes | eNotes
• The Symbolism of Jackson’s “The Lottery” Explained | Interesting Literature
• The Normalization of Violence in “The Lottery” | The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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The Lottery and Other Stories

By shirley jackson, the lottery and other stories essay questions.

Discuss the various manifestations of unexpected evil in suburban settings in Jackson’s works.

Several examples throughout the collection of short stories can be used to answer this question, in particular "The Renegade," "Got a Letter from Jimmy," and "The Lottery." In "The Renegade," Mrs. Walpole's attempt to deal with a relatively simple problem leads to her neighbors, even her own children, giving gratuitous suggestions how to kill the dog. The narrator of "Got a Letter from Jimmy" internally fantasizes about murdering her husband, though he is wholly unsuspecting, as they share a conversation over a simple meal. Finally, "The Lottery" takes place in a nondescript, ordinary town in America; what begins as a ritualistic tradition turns out to be a brutal and inhumane execution.

What is the significance of homes in Jackson’s fiction?

As witnessed in various stories and novels by Jackson, homes often signify the security of the character's or homeowner's identity. For example, in "Like Mother Used to Make," David finds security in the good maintenance of his home. However, when his apartment is taken over by Marcia, David loses his self-confidence and finds himself complicit in her charade with Mr. Harris. He allows himself to be exiled from his own home, and the story concludes with him in Marcia's bare and unkempt apartment instead.

What is the significance of the James Harris character, who recurs throughout The Lottery and Other Stories?

James Harris, or the Daemon Lover, is an insidiously unobtrusive source of evil. He is never a prominent character, but his appearance always signifies instability and, in some cases, the protagonist's mental illness. For example, in "The Tooth," Clara's acquaintance with James Harris turns out to be a clear indication of her growing insanity and loss of self.

How do loneliness, boredom, and discontentment make Jackson characters more susceptible to mental illness?

Many of Jackson's protagonists, particularly those who are female and unmarried, are dissatisfied with the paths of their lives. For example, the titular character of "Elizabeth" longs to move to a better apartment and improve her career; she believes that James Harris will help her accomplish these goals, and she loses herself in a fantasy future. Similarly, in "The Villager," Miss Clarence forsakes her ambition to become a dancer and has been working as a stenographer for many years. When given the chance to slip into Nancy Roberts's identity, Miss Clarence readily adopts this seemingly more glamorous identity. This lapse into fantasy occurs to Eleanor, the protagonist of Jackson's novel The Haunting of Hill House , to an extreme extent and results in her mental destruction and death.

How does Jackson blur the reader’s perception of reality and fantasy in her short stories?

Often, Jackson portrays the protagonist's fantasies as concrete events. For example, in the beginning of "The Daemon Lover," the reader has no reason to question the narrator's sanity; she behaves like a woman who is preparing for her wedding day. As the story progresses, however, the reader begins to question the existence of James Harris. Finally, at the end of the story, the reader comes to understand that the narrator has most likely imagined his existence. This also occurs in "The Tooth," when James Harris appears to Mrs. Spencer as a real character but turns out to be a figment of her imagination.

Consider how Shirley Jackson’s setting and descriptions in “The Lottery” might evoke such shock and horror from readers.

Indeed, many readers of the first publication of "The Lottery" expressed their shock and disgust with the subject matter of this short story. Jackson's setting of the story in small-town America enables many readers to identify, at least initially, with the characters and their lifestyles. For most of the story, the reader does not suspect any evil intentions in the characters and in the practice of the lottery. Thus, the true nature of the lottery is wholly unexpected and highlights and brutality of ordinary people.

To Jackson, how are the dangers of suburban conformity manifested?

While some of Jackson's stories are not as dramatic as "The Tooth" or "The Lottery," they nonetheless demonstrate the more subtle dangers of suburban conformity. For example, Mrs. Winning's snobby and narrow-minded treatment of the MacLane family results in them moving away. Though Mrs. Winning attempts to befriend the MacLane family, she succumbs to the community's expectations and shuns Mrs. MacLane for hiring a nonwhite gardener.

In Jackson's works, how do some protagonists perceive the differences between country life and city life?

Many of Jackson's protagonists either move from small towns to large cities or vice versa. Those who move from small towns (such as the protagonists of "Elizabeth" and "The Villager") find that their dreams are not attained and settle for less than satisfying lives and careers. Though they are unhappy in New York, they insist upon maintaining the image, at least to their friends and families at home, that their lives are much more glamorous than in reality. Similarly, Margaret, in "Pillar of Salt," is wholly overwhelmed by her vacation to New York and becomes paralyzed by feelings of claustrophobia and paranoia. On the other hand, Mrs. Walpole misses city life and feels suffocated by the small-town gossip that pervades her community.

Explain why familial relationships are significant to protagonists in Jackson’s fiction.

Those of Jackson's protagonists who maintain strong relationships with their family, whether with parents or spouses, are less susceptible to experiencing feelings of dissatisfaction in their lives, and are thus less likely to fantasize about alternate realities. For example, Mrs. MacLane ("Flower Garden") enjoyed a happy marriage before her husband's death and is very close to her loving son, Davey. She is confident enough to adhere to her moral values in the small-minded Vermont community. Mrs. Winning, on the other hand, feels lonely and does not receive much affection from her husband, her in-laws, or her children. As a result, she constantly envies Mrs. MacLane and succumbs to the community's norms, instead of establishing her own identity.

Why do you think Jackson juxtaposes mundane, everyday settings with such unexpected evil actions or thoughts, and how does this impact the reader’s experience?

Jackson's subtle method of revealing the small and subtle evils of seemingly ordinary humans in ordinary communities highlights the capacity for evil in all individuals. She emphasizes that evil is not extraordinary but in fact the opposite. True horror does not require extravagant settings and psychotic murderers. Instead, it can be found in seemingly harmless circumstances, such as the man whom Johnny meets in "The Witch."

The Lottery and Other Stories Questions and Answers

The Question and Answer section for The Lottery and Other Stories is a great resource to ask questions, find answers, and discuss the novel.

Consider what Old Man Warner said before on page 6 and revisit your answer on the top of page 7. Ask a high-level question about what Old Man Warner says above. Return to this question at the end of our reading to provide a text-based answer.

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The Lottery

The Lottery takes place on the morning of June 27th. The day is sunny and pleasant summer day, and the villagers are gathering in the village square. The children are playing, and the adults are talking about everyday matters.

The morning of June...

Which of the following words best describes the general mood of the villagers in attendance?

Study Guide for The Lottery and Other Stories

The Lottery and Other Stories study guide contains a biography of author Shirley Jackson, literature essays, quiz questions, major themes, characters, and a full summary and analysis.

• About The Lottery and Other Stories
• The Lottery and Other Stories Summary
• Character List

Essays for The Lottery and Other Stories

The Lottery and Other Stories literature essays are academic essays for citation. These papers were written primarily by students and provide critical analysis of The Lottery and Other Stories by Shirley Jackson.

• The Concept of ‘The Greater Good’ in “The Lottery” and “The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas”
• Gothic Elements in “A Good Man Is Hard to Find” and “The Lottery
• Prominent Themes in The Lottery
• The Danger of Ritual and Tradition in "The Hunger Games" and “The Lottery”
• Shirley Jackson's The Lottery

Lesson Plan for The Lottery and Other Stories

• About the Author
• Study Objectives
• Common Core Standards
• Introduction to The Lottery and Other Stories
• Relationship to Other Books
• Bringing in Technology
• Notes to the Teacher
• Related Links
• The Lottery and Other Stories Bibliography

Wikipedia Entries for The Lottery and Other Stories

• Introduction

The Lottery

45 pages • 1 hour read

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Story Analysis

Character Analysis

Symbols & Motifs

Literary Devices

Important Quotes

Essay Topics

Discussion Questions

How does the author create a feeling of suspense or dread? Give examples.

The Lottery offended many readers on its first publication. Explain why the story was controversial. Do you agree? If yes, explain why. If not, defend the story with a rebuttal . 

Little Davy Hutchinson receives a small handful of stones . Why? Given the purpose of the lottery, was this a proper thing to do? Defend your view. 

Are small towns more or less likely than other places to succumb to group-think cruelty? Explain.

How does Jackson use foreshadowing throughout the story to suggest its brutal ending?

Jackson presents Tessie Hutchinson with no choice at the end of the story. Write an alternative ending for Tessie, and describe how a different ending might affect her life and her family.

Name a practice from the past that was considered normal but is shunned today. How does society determine what is acceptable, and how does this change over time?

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“The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson Essay

The Lottery , a 1948 short story by Shirley Jackson, developed the themes of adherence to meaningless traditions, parenting and scapegoating. The broad aftermath and the negative responses of the readers who did not see the line between fiction and reality prove that the plot of the short story The Lottery by Jackson reflects the real problems of the modern community.

The plot of the story depicts a two hours lottery in a small town which finishes with a ritualistic death ceremony of stoning the unlucky participant as a sacrifice for ensuring a better harvest. At the beginning of the short story, the village children walk around collecting stones.

Mr. Summers who runs the lottery mixes the slips of paper in a black box, checks if everyone is in place and invites the heads of the families to draw the papers. When it clears out that Bill Hutchinson gets the unlucky slip, his wife Tessie starts protesting saying that her husband had not enough time for making his choice and the lottery is not fair.

Then, each member of the Hutchinsons family selects a slip of paper, and Tessie draws a slip with a black dot on it. Then, the villagers throw their stones into Tessie as a part of their death ritual. The fact that Tessie does not question the rite itself, but protests against the choice of her family emphasizes the idea of adherence to tradition as the major theme of the short story.

The rite is regarded as sacred and the idea of doubting it does not occur to anybody. When Mrs. Adams admits that the ritual of the lottery has already been abandoned in other villages, Warner as the eldest man in this community answers that giving up the rite can cause only troubles. “Next thing you know, they’ll be wanting to go back to living in caves” (Jackson 14).

Justifying the death ritual with the fact that the lottery has been always held in the village previously, Jackson discloses the theme of parenting when in one of the final episodes, a woman puts a stone into a child’s hand, fostering the tradition of violence and lotteries searching for the scapegoats to be stoned.

Regardless of the indignation raising in the readers’ minds, after decoding the symbolic meaning of the depicted lottery rite, everyone can recollect the situations from personal experience and world’s history in which modern the community selects a scapegoat to be discriminated.

For instance, the Nazis scapegoated the Jewish people, proclaiming them the reason of their troubles. Regardless of the current societal progress, modern people frequently scapegoat sexual and ethnical minorities, blaming them for the current moral decay and other social problems. The social phenomenon of scapegoating is rooted deep in public consciousness and tradition according to which the dominating social group looks for the opportunities of self-affirmation and shifting the responsibility for their problems on the others.

Though the ritual of stoning to death has certain historical basis, its meaning is rather symbolical and should not be taken literally by modern readers. The examples of scapegoating the others, including the limited rights of immigrants for finding a good job and the so-called glass ceiling due to which women receive lower salaries than men doing the same job and have lower chances for career promotion clearly represent the phenomenon of scapegoating in modern community.

In other words, appealing to the readers’ feelings, Shirley Jackson provides them with food for thought not limited to the indignation with the medieval rite, but extended to the reappraisal of their own attitudes and behavior.

The aftermath of The Lottery and the readers’ reaction to the short story proves that its plot impressed the readers recognizing it as the reflection of their lives.

After the short story was published in The New Yorker in 1948, the author received hundreds of hostile letters from the readers objecting to the brutal ending of the story. “As Jackson noted in her witty essay Biography of a Story , many of the letters she received that summer were from people who wanted to know whether these lotteries are held and whether they could go there and watch” (Murphy 104).

The debates concerning the actual location of these rites prove that the line between the fiction and reality as perceived by the readers appeared to be unclear. Hypocritically concealing their fear of becoming a scapegoat, not feeling empathy with Tessie Hutchinson who becomes a victim and not having moral strength and common sense to abandon the meaningless rite, the characters of the short story have a strong resemblance to modern readers.

“The contradictions of myth and ideology, the imaginary solutions to real problems, emerge in the specific rituals that ostensibly endorse the myth and ideology” (Hattenhauer 44). Thus, the plot of the short story can be regarded as the exaggerated reflection of the phenomenon of scapegoating as the imaginary solution to the real problems of the modern community.

The readers’ reaction to the short story The Lottery which became the classic of American literature proves that the depicted phenomenon of scapegoating appeals to their feelings as a topical problem of the modern community.

Works Cited

Hattenhauer, Darryl. Shirley Jackson’s American Gothic. State University of New York Press, 2003. Print.

Jackson, Shirley. The Lottery . Mankato: Creative Education, 2008. Print.

Murphy, Bernice. Shirley Jackson: Essays on the Literary Legacy. Jefferson: McFarland & Company Publishers. Print.

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IvyPanda. (2018, October 12). "The Lottery" by Shirley Jackson. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-lottery/

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IvyPanda . (2018) '"The Lottery" by Shirley Jackson'. 12 October.

IvyPanda . 2018. ""The Lottery" by Shirley Jackson." October 12, 2018. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-lottery/.

1. IvyPanda . ""The Lottery" by Shirley Jackson." October 12, 2018. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-lottery/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . ""The Lottery" by Shirley Jackson." October 12, 2018. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-lottery/.

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