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Essay / The Importance of Setting in “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson
In “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson, the setting plays a crucial role in shaping the overall tone and atmosphere of the story. Through its vivid descriptions and carefully crafted details, the lottery setting creates a sense of normalcy and complacency, which ultimately shocks and disturbs the reader. This essay will explore the importance of the setting of “The Lottery,” focusing on its contribution to themes of tradition, conformity, and the dark underbelly of society. By looking at the setting of the lottery, we can better understand the underlying message of the story and the impact it has on the reader. Say no to plagiarism. Get a Custom Essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”?Get an Original EssayThe initial description of the setting of “The Lottery” is deceptively idyllic, as the author presents us with a small town on a clear, sunny day . summer day. Through the use of colorful language and vivid imagery, Jackson paints a portrait of a peaceful and picturesque community. The mention of “flowers blooming profusely” and the “cool heat of a summer day” creates a welcoming and tranquil atmosphere (Jackson, 1). However, this seemingly ordinary setting becomes increasingly significant as the story unfolds, emphasizing the contrast between the city's outward appearance and the dark ritual that takes place there. The lottery setting also serves to reinforce the theme of tradition and power. he dominates the townspeople. Jackson describes the place where the lottery takes place as being "between the post office and the bank", suggesting that this event is deeply ingrained in the daily routine of the town (Jackson, 1). The fact that the lottery has been practiced for so long without challenge or resistance indicates the strength of tradition and the fear of deviating from established norms. The setting, in this case, acts as a physical representation of the city's adherence to tradition and its reluctance to question it. Additionally, the lottery setting contributes to the theme of conformity and pressure to conform to society's expectations. Jackson describes the townspeople gathered in the square, each family represented by a member pulling a slip of paper from the black box. The framework of the lottery underlines the collective nature of the event, since everyone is expected to participate. The author writes, “the entire lottery lasted less than two hours, so it could begin at ten o'clock in the morning and end in time for the villagers to return home for midday dinner” (Jackson, 2). This sense of collective participation and strict adherence to the calendar highlights the townspeople's desire to conform and the consequences of deviating from societal norms. As the story progresses, the setting gradually takes on a darker and more disturbing tone. The once sunny and welcoming square becomes a place of fear and dread as the true nature of the lottery is revealed. The villagers' casual conversations and light-hearted banter are juxtaposed with the tension and unease that permeates the air. Jackson's close attention to details, such as "nervous laughter" and "whispered comments about the stupidity of continuing to talk about the lottery", add to the growing sense of unease and foreshadow the shocking climax (Jackson, 5) . The setting of the lottery, in this case, is a stark reminder that even the most innocent and ordinary places can harbor dark secrets. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized paper now from our expert writers. Get a paper..