What historical events influenced the lottery?
“The Lottery” also draws thematic influence from World War II, which ended in 1945. In the aftermath of the Holocaust, it was evident that ordinary people would commit horrific acts of violence under the right conditions. This idea is echoed by the behavior of the townspeople in Jackson’s story.
What was the original purpose of the lottery Shirley?
The original purpose of the lottery seem to have been some twisted sort of rain dance ritual. As Old Man Warner explains, the old saying used to exclaim, “Lottery in June, corn by heavy soon”.
Why did Shirley Jackson start writing?
Jackson began writing material as Hyman established himself as a critic. Jackson and Hyman were known for being colorful, generous hosts who surrounded themselves with literary talents, including Ralph Ellison. They were both enthusiastic readers whose personal library was estimated at 25,000 books.
What influenced The Lottery?
Although it is often unclear which specific authors Jackson would draw her influence from, it was evident in her writings from an early age that her inspiration came from her view that there was a hidden dark side in everyone (“Shirley Jackson Biography”).
What major world event took place prior to the story The Lottery?
“The Lottery” appeared in print just after World War II, a time during which the United States began instituting the Selective Service…
Why did they do The Lottery in The Lottery?
Mr. Adams tells Old Man Warner that he has heard of another village in the north in which the townspeople are talking about giving up the lottery. … The reason why the villagers “have” to have a lottery is simply because the lottery had become a tradition that has been followed since the time of the villagers’ ancestors.
What is the message of the story The Lottery?
The primary message of Shirley Jackson’s celebrated short story “The Lottery” concerns the dangers of blindly following traditions. In the story, the entire community gathers in the town square to participate in the annual lottery.
Why did The Lottery start in The Lottery?
She simply presents the lottery as having happened for a long period of time, something that has been accepted by the townspeople. … The closest that Jackson comes to providing an explanation as to why the lottery takes place in the town is to suggest that it has become part of the rite of passage each year.
What inspired Shirley Jackson to write?
Jackson’s socialite mother verbally abused her daughter, who consequently grew up with low self-esteem and a fragile sense of identity. Jackson began writing when she was a teenager and focused seriously on her work in high school and college.
What mental illness does Shirley have?
But Decker and the film’s screenwriter, Sarah Gubbins (who adapted Susan Scarf Merrell’s novel), weave the reality of Shirley’s struggles with agoraphobia and anxiety into a fictional horror story of sorts.