In the short story "The Lottery," Shirley Jackson uses characterization and symbolism to emphasize that tradition is resistant to change. ... Not only were the grown-ups caught up in this event, but the children were involved also, so they will be carrying out the lottery to the next generation. ... The same black box is described with its repetitive use, just like a repetitive tradition that is carried out. ... Traditions have been carried throughout life and continue to this day, and the author uses characterization and symbolism to highlight this. ... People continue to watch diff...

• Word Count: 1068
• Approx Pages: 4
• Grade Level: High School

This symbolism is prevalent throughout both "The Lottery " and the Bible. ... The tradition of the lottery is analogous to religious traditions because it is passed on at an early age, people rarely question it, and it includes the use of a scapegoat to carry other peoples' sin. ... In these stories, it is human nature for people to feel justified in their own wrong doings if they have a scapegoat. ... In this example, tradition refers to the things people do simply because it is the way things have always been done. ... It could almost be understood that the stones each person threw rep...

• Word Count: 1195
• Approx Pages: 5
• Grade Level: High School

In the short story "The Lottery" by Shirley Jackson, the author uses irony to expand on a theme of traditions that continue although they are ludicrous and barbaric. ... Shirley Jackson also uses symbolism to make us aware of the pointless nature of humanity regarding tradition and violence. ... Summers arrived in the square, carrying the "black box." ... The reminiscing serves as a reminder to the villagers of the way things are and the way they have always been. ... Even if it means that the other person is his or her own mother, they celebrate that it is not they that are chosen. ...

• Word Count: 1008
• Approx Pages: 4
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: High School