Analysis of the Characters in 'lamb to the slaughter short story'

In 'lamb to the slaughter', Mary Maloney is a complex character. At first, she seems like a typical, devoted housewife. However, after her husband's shocking revelation, she shows a cold - blooded side. She quickly formulates a plan to cover up her crime. The police officers are also interesting characters. They are initially so confident in their investigation but end up being deceived by Mary's clever act.

Well, Mary Maloney is a character who goes through a huge transformation. Initially, she is all about taking care of her husband, waiting for him to come home from work. But when he tells her he's leaving, she snaps. Her character then becomes one of a calculating murderer. The police officers are portrayed as being a bit clueless. They are so focused on finding the murder weapon that they don't suspect the innocent - looking Mary, who has the weapon (the lamb) right under their noses all along.

Mary Maloney is the central character. She is presented as a loving and submissive wife in the beginning. But when her world is shattered by her husband's news, she acts impulsively. The fact that she uses the frozen lamb as a weapon is both ironic and shows her resourcefulness. The police, on the other hand, are a bit gullible. They underestimate Mary because of her gender and her initial appearance of distress.