conflcit in the lottery by shirley jackson

2 min read 23-01-2025

conflcit in the lottery by shirley jackson

Shirley Jackson's "The Lottery" is a chilling tale that transcends its simple narrative to explore the terrifying potential for violence hidden within seemingly ordinary communities. The story's power stems not from spectacular events, but from the subtle yet potent conflicts simmering beneath the surface of a seemingly idyllic village. This essay will dissect the various conflicts present in the story, demonstrating how they contribute to the shocking climax and leave a lasting impression on the reader.

The Conflict Between Tradition and Humanity

The most prominent conflict in "The Lottery" is the stark opposition between a blindly followed tradition and basic human decency. The annual lottery, a ritual passed down through generations, is presented as a normal, even necessary, part of village life. The villagers participate without question, their unquestioning acceptance more horrifying than any overt act of violence. This ingrained acceptance of the ritual, regardless of its brutal consequences, highlights the danger of unquestioning adherence to tradition, even when it directly contradicts fundamental human values. The lack of critical thinking among the villagers is a terrifying aspect of the story's conflict.

The Crumbling Facade of Order

The seemingly peaceful atmosphere of the village, with its casual conversations and familiar routines, ironically underscores the underlying tension. This idyllic facade masks the simmering violence inherent in the lottery itself. The conflict here is between the appearance of normalcy and the brutal reality of the villagers' actions. This juxtaposition heightens the story's unsettling impact, forcing the reader to confront the unsettling truth that evil can thrive in the most ordinary of settings.

The Conflict Between Individual and Community

Tessie Hutchinson's belated protest against the lottery highlights another critical conflict: the individual versus the community. Initially, she participates without complaint, even engaging in lighthearted banter. Her sudden outrage, however, reveals the inherent conflict between individual survival and the unquestioning obedience demanded by the community. This late objection serves to intensify the horror of the situation, demonstrating the power of collective action to override individual conscience. Her protest comes too late.

The Power of Conformity

The villagers' near-unanimous participation in the lottery speaks to the overwhelming power of conformity. The lack of dissent before Tessie's outburst reveals a community bound by unspoken rules and a fear of challenging the established order. This collective conformity, which allows the brutal tradition to persist, is arguably the story's most terrifying aspect. It underscores the ease with which seemingly ordinary people can become complicit in horrific acts.

The Conflict Between Appearance and Reality

The story masterfully employs irony to highlight the conflict between appearance and reality. The seemingly pleasant village setting, the ordinary activities of the villagers, and the casual conversation all create a deceptive sense of normalcy. This sharp contrast between the idyllic surface and the brutal reality of the lottery amplifies the story's shocking impact. The reader is forced to confront the disturbing idea that evil can hide beneath a veneer of normalcy. This deceptive calm intensifies the horror of the eventual violence.

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Conflict

"The Lottery" remains relevant because it explores timeless conflicts that continue to resonate with modern audiences. The story serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the dangers of blind conformity, unquestioning adherence to tradition, and the potential for violence lurking beneath the surface of seemingly ordinary communities. The conflicts presented within the narrative—between tradition and humanity, individual and community, and appearance and reality—make "The Lottery" a powerful and enduring work of literature. The disturbing climax is a direct result of these unresolved and ultimately tragic conflicts.