�PAGE � �PAGE �8� Look at Literature
An Analytical Look at Literature
Laura Gabbard
The University of Phoenix
LIT 210 World Literature
Patricia Sanker
September 1, 2006
An Analytical Look at Literature
As an example of conformity, Shirley Jackson's "The Lottery" is opposite of the rebellion of Sophocles' "Antigonê". While the first is a short story and the latter is a dramatic work, both fit the theme of conformity and rebellion. The conflict in "AntigonÃÂ" is immediately apparent in the prologue. "The Lottery" gradually awakens the reader to the extreme degree of conformity as it nears the conclusion.
Cultural Ideas of Right and Wrong
"The Lottery" is a tradition or religious practice. Every year a village gathers on a summer's day to hold a lottery in the village square. As Old Man Warner says to Mr. Adams, "There's always been a lotteryâ¦". (Jackson, p 331). Central meeting places, long-held practices, and specific days are signs of traditional or religious events.
Lottery Winners Barbara and Michael Ayres
Cadmus Sowing the Dragon's teeth, by Maxfield Parr...
This image was first published in the 1 st (1876&n...The reference to the corn made by Old Man Warner makes one think of religion as well. While the people and the objects in the lottery have changed, the practice and time have stayed the same. Not all villages have adhered to tradition. As Mr. and Mrs. Adams converse with Old Man Warner, they speak of a village in the north that is thinking of giving up the lottery. Some villages have quit having them. The Adams's and Old Man Warner have negative feelings about this, especially Old Man Warner. (Literature, p 331-332). This is a reaction of people throughout history; the older generation is always the most opposed to change. In this case, it is horrific because by the end of the story we know what the lottery actually is.
Since no mention of God exists in "The...