Table of contentsLiterary elementsA. ParameterB. CharactersC. Plot Themes and SymbolismA. Theme of tradition and ritualB. Theme of violence and crueltyC. Theme of Conformity and Peer PressureLiterary Analysis TechniquesA. ForeshadowingB. IronyConclusionReferences “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson is a short story that has become a classic of American literature because of its depiction of the dark aspects of human nature. In this essay, I will analyze the literary elements, themes, and symbolism of the story, as well as the literary techniques Jackson used to enhance the meaning and impact of his work. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essayLiterary ElementsA. SettingThe setting of “La Loterie” is a fictional village described in detail by the author. Jackson paints a portrait of a peaceful, idyllic community where “the flowers bloomed abundantly and the grass was richly green.” However, as the story progresses, the reader realizes that the picturesque landscape serves as a facade for the horror the villagers are about to experience. The town's peaceful appearance also serves to create a stark contrast to the violence that occurs when the winner of the lottery is stoned to death. As such, the setting creates an ominous atmosphere that reinforces the overall sense of the story.B. CharactersThe main characters of "The Lottery" are Tessie Hutchinson, Mr. Summers and Mr. Graves. Tessie is the victim who is stoned at the end of the story. Mr. Summers is the organizer of the lottery and Mr. Graves is his assistant. Each character plays an important role in the story, with Tessie representing the ordinary person who falls prey to bad traditions, and Mr. Summers and Mr. Graves personifying those in power who uphold those traditions. The plot of "The Lottery" revolves around the annual tradition of the lottery, where everyone in the village draws slips of paper to determine who will be stoned to death. The lottery process is described as orchestrated, with every citizen participating willingly and even enthusiastically. The climax of the story occurs when Tessie becomes the Chosen One and is subsequently killed by the villagers, including her own family members. The plot structure builds suspense through the gradual revelation of details about the lore, leading to a violent and gruesome ending.Themes and SymbolismA. Theme of tradition and ritualThe theme of tradition and ritual is at the heart of “The Lottery”. The story examines the dangers of blindly following centuries-old customs without questioning their validity or moral implications. For example, villagers adhere to the lottery tradition without understanding its origins or purpose, illustrating how entrenched and unquestioned customs can lead people to commit heinous acts. The black box and the stones, which are at the heart of the lottery, are the symbol of tradition. itself and the way in which it was transmitted, without doubt, from one generation to another. The box, old and worn, represents the weight of tradition. In comparison, the stones are new and shiny, symbolizing the villagers' willingness to participate in the brutal acts dictated by tradition without questioning them.B. Theme of violence and cruelty “The Lottery” is a shocking depiction of violence and cruelty. The lottery process itself is brutal, and everyone participates in the draw, including children and the elderly. Even members of Tessie's family participate in her stoning, emphasizing the destructive influence of, 2007.