Dangerous Traditions
Dangerous Tradition
Traditions are normally comforting rituals, with deep roots in religious or familial events. They usually are cause for celebration and coming together with family and community. When the roots of our traditions are forgotten then the reason for carrying on the custom is lost. Shirley Jackson writes about the dark side of following rituals mindlessly in her story, “The Lottery”. Jackson resolutely conveys this theme using palpable symbolism, irrational faith, and senseless sacrifice.
The story is full of conspicuous symbolism and dual meaning. The man who is the postmaster and co-chair of the lottery, is aptly named, Mr. Graves. Jackson tells how, “The night before the lottery. Mr. Summers and Mr. Graves made up the slips of paper and put them in the box until Mr. Summers was ready to take it to the square the next morning” (253). Mr. Graves’ name is definitely symbolic for what is coming in the pressing future. Jackson also tells about the......
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