The Lottery” Short Story Analysis
Section A – Pre-reading strategies
Before you start reading the story, look at the following aspects of the story to try and understand its context:
What does the title tell you about the story? What predictions can you make based on the title?
What do you already know about lotteries? Compare the denotation and connotation of the word “lottery”? That is, what is the definition of the word lottery, and what emotions are associated with the word?
Section B – Reading Strategies
Read the first part of the story carefully. Note the details establishing the setting and mood of the story and introducing the characters.
Where does the story take place?
What is the general tone or mood of the story?
Who are the characters in this story?
Section C–Looking more closely.
List details of sight, sound and smell in the story. Are they effective in establishing the setting and mood?
The lottery is run by two men named Graves and Summers. What significance can you see in the choice of names?
List the changes in Tessie Hutchinson’s attitude throughout the story (compare her attitude at the beginning, middle and end). What do these changes suggest about a possible theme for the story?
What signs are there of the people’s nervousness during the drawing?
Normally someone “wins” a lottery, but that word is never used in the story. What expression is used instead? Why do you think the author avoids using the word “win”?
Section D–Post-reading activity
What is Tessie’s reaction to the lottery’s outcome? Is her accusation fair?
Identify the purpose of this story. Is it to entertain, present an insight about life, or something else? Use examples from the story to support your view.
What do you think is the overall theme of the story? Why do you think so?
What might this story suggest about the way people in a group act?
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