Read The Required Materials And Review The Handout Plot Them ✓ Solved

Read The Required Materials And Review The Handoutplot Theme

Read the required materials and review the handout Plot, Theme, and Conflict. All stories have a theme that forms the plot. Also, literary elements and techniques contribute to creating and highlighting the theme. In this discussion you will choose a story from the textbook. Describe the core conflict represented in the story. Describe the theme of the story. Select three literary elements/techniques in the story and describe them. Explain how the elements/techniques illustrate the theme and conflict expressed in the story. As you consider these questions and begin answering them, incorporate readings found in Chapters 4-7 to help illustrate the points you make. Your initial post should be at least 200 words in length. The minimum word count does not include references.

Paper For Above Instructions

In literature, conflict and theme are essential elements that drive the narrative and engage readers. One compelling story that epitomizes this relationship is "The Lottery" by Shirley Jackson. The core conflict in "The Lottery" is the struggle between tradition and change, underscored by characters’ inner conflicts as they balance their long-standing customs with the moral implications of those traditions. The theme of the story revolves around the dangers of blindly following tradition without questioning its validity, which can lead to dire consequences.

The first literary element to highlight is symbolism. The black box, which holds the slips of paper for the lottery, symbolizes the tradition of the lottery itself. While it is old and worn, indicating its long history, it remains unquestioned by the townspeople. This blind adherence to tradition is further illustrated when some villagers suggest replacing the box, which reflects their discomfort with the tradition but showcases their eventual complacency. The symbolism of the box communicates how societal norms can often be accepted without scrutiny, emphasizing the theme of the story.

The second literary element is characterization. Jackson develops her characters deeply, particularly through Tessie Hutchinson, who initially appears carefree but ultimately becomes the victim of the ritual. Her transformation highlights the arbitrary nature of the lottery and serves as a commentary on how easily individuals can become ensnared by societal expectations. Through Tessie’s experience, readers are challenged to question the morality of the townspeople’s tradition, further reinforcing the theme that blind adherence to tradition can have fatal consequences.

The third literary element to consider is foreshadowing. Jackson employs foreshadowing throughout the story, starting with the children gathering stones at the beginning, which sets an ominous tone. This detail creates suspense, hinting at the violence that will occur. As the story progresses, the foreshadowing becomes increasingly pronounced, culminating in the shocking reveal of the lottery's true purpose. This technique effectively illustrates the theme by allowing readers to piece together the implications of traditional practices and their potential dangers long before the climax.

In examining these literary elements—symbolism, characterization, and foreshadowing—it becomes evident how each contributes to the overarching themes of conflict between tradition and moral questioning. The narrative poses significant questions about societal acceptance and the implications of unexamined practices, encouraging readers to reflect on their own beliefs and rituals. As highlighted in Chapters 4-7, understanding these literary devices provides deeper insight into the author's message, showcasing how technique and theme are intricately woven together in powerful storytelling.

Ultimately, "The Lottery" serves as a poignant reminder of the potential horrors that can arise when individuals do not question the efficacy of their traditions. In the pursuit of maintaining social order, the people in Jackson's story lose sight of their humanity, illustrating the need for critical examination of societal norms. This valuable lesson resonates across time, urging readers to maintain vigilance over the traditions they inherit and the values they uphold.

References

• Jackson, S. (1948). The Lottery. New Yorker.
• Harmon, W. & Holman, C. (2009). A Handbook to Literature. 10th Edition. Pearson.
• Beaty, J. & Hunter, D. (2012). The Norton Introduction to Literature. 11th Edition. W.W. Norton & Company.
• DiYanni, R. (2010). Literature: Reading Fiction, Poetry, and Drama. 6th Edition. McGraw-Hill.
• Fry, W. (2015). The Art of Fiction: A Guide for Writers and Readers. St. Martin's Press.
• Tyson, L. (2011). Critical Theory Today: A User-Friendly Guide. 2nd Edition. Continuum.
• Gioia, D. & Kohl, J. (2016). Literature: An Introduction to Fiction, Poetry, Drama, and Writing. 13th Edition. Pearson.
• Wheeler, B. (2020). Literary Terms and Definitions. Attheintersection.
• Marshall, T. (2018). Understanding Literature: The Importance of Literary Devices in Fiction. Routledge.
• Meyer, M. (2010). The Bedford Introduction to Literature: Reading, Thinking, Writing. 8th Edition. Bedford/St. Martin's.