The adults become "sheep pushing their carts down the aisle" (Updike 13) and "scared pigs in a chute" (16). ... The sexual imagery in the story also serves to further reveal Sammy's character (Peck). ... Additionally, Updike uses irony to portray Sammy's character. ... Updike's use of irony in Sammy's actions presents a contradictory character. ... Through Updike's use of figurative language, irony, and tone, Sammy's character develops along with the remorse for his actions that he feels in the end. ...

• Word Count: 1410
• Approx Pages: 6
• Grade Level: High School

Updike allows Sammy, the main character, to narrate, giving the reader insight to his personality and background. ... Sammy's character is dynamic. ... As more shoppers realize a situation brewing at Sammy's slot, they come to a screeching halt and "begin to knock against each other, like scared pigs in a chute" (104), deciding which register to move on to. ...

• Word Count: 1283
• Approx Pages: 5
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: High School

Even though Lengel does not make his physical appearance until near the story's end, his arrival has in a way been foreshadowed by a number of other characters who preceded him. ... Primarily, the historical setting of the story, "The A & P", tremendously affects the decisions of the main characters. ... His references to them as "sheep," "houseslaves" and "pigs" reveals his attitude toward the group that keeps his employer in business--and Sammy in a job that he hates. ...

• Word Count: 1947
• Approx Pages: 8
• Grade Level: High School