Answer: Symbolism
In this excerpt of "The Lottery," the black box symbolizes the outdated ritual and superstition of the villagers. We see that the box is shabby, and gets worse every year. It is faded and stained, and does not resemble what it was in its good days. Similarly, the superstition of the villagers has outlived its usefulness. It has been modified several times, and now only serves a purpose that is destructive. Nevertheless, it still has a hold on the population through fear, just like the black box.