How does Shirley Jackson use setting to enhance the horror in 'The Lottery'?

The use of the ordinary setting also adds to the suspense. A small village on a sunny day is not a place we would expect something sinister to happen. So when the true nature of the lottery is revealed, it is all the more shocking because it goes against our expectations of such a seemingly idyllic place.

She uses a slow build - up. At first, she describes the ordinary village scene, like the kids gathering stones and the adults chatting. This makes you think it's just a normal day in a small town. But as the lottery process starts, there's a sense of unease that grows.

Jackson uses the reactions of the characters to create suspense. The nervousness of some of the villagers, like Mrs. Hutchinson being late, makes the reader wonder what's really going on. Also, the way the villagers seem to be holding their breath when the lottery starts adds to the feeling of unease. For instance, when the families are called up one by one, the tension mounts as we don't know who will be the final 'winner' of this strange lottery.

The unexpected violence at the end makes it a horror story. The lottery, which seems like a normal event at first, turns out to have a deadly consequence. It's a shock to the readers when the so - called 'winner' is stoned to death.

The 'Lottery' is a shockingly powerful short story. It presents a seemingly ordinary small town where the annual lottery takes place. However, as the story unfolds, the true horror of this 'lottery' is revealed. The writing is simple yet effective in building up the tension. Jackson uses a matter - of - fact tone which makes the ending all the more disturbing. It makes the readers question the blind following of traditions and the capacity for ordinary people to commit atrocious acts.

In 'The Lottery', Shirley Jackson creates a shockingly dark and thought - provoking short story. The seemingly ordinary setting of a small town holds a terrifying annual ritual. The characters, who at first seem like typical small - town folk, gradually reveal the blind acceptance of a cruel tradition. The ending is a gut - punch that makes you question human nature and the power of conformity.

In 'The Lottery', Shirley Jackson presents a disturbing small - town ritual. The shock value is high as the seemingly ordinary setting and characters contrast sharply with the brutal ending. The story effectively critiques blind adherence to tradition. The lottery, which should be a positive thing, is turned into a death sentence. This makes the reader question the power of groupthink and how traditions can become harmful without proper re - evaluation.

Yes, it is. 'The Lottery' is a well-known short story by Shirley Jackson.

One main theme is the danger of blindly following traditions. In the story, the villagers carry out the lottery without really questioning its purpose or morality.

One main theme is the danger of blindly following traditions. In the story, the villagers participate in the lottery every year without really questioning its purpose or morality. It shows how people can get caught up in something just because it's always been done.