Question

How does the reader's point of view on the lottery change over the course of the story? Support your answer using at least 2 pieces of evidence.

A. The reader sympathizes with the characters in the beginning and feels shocked at the ending.
B. The reader initially finds the lottery exciting but becomes horrified as the true nature of the ritual is revealed.
C. The reader remains indifferent throughout the story, not experiencing any significant change in perspective.
D. The reader is consistently repulsed by the characters' actions from start to finish.

Answer 1

In Shirley Jackson's 'The Lottery,' the reader's point of view changes from initial curiosity to shock and horror as the story progresses from a seemingly harmless ritual to the revelation of its grim reality. Option number b isis correct.

Step-by-step explanation:

The reader's point of view on The Lottery typically changes dramatically over the course of the story. Initially, the event might seem innocuous or even positive, based on the congenial interactions between townsfolk and the storied history of lotteries creating lucky windfalls. This aligns more with option B, as the reader might find the description of the lottery initially inviting.

However, once the true nature of the lottery in Shirley Jackson's story is revealed—that the 'winner' is stoned to death—the reader's excitement turns to horror and disbelief. Evidence supporting this transition includes the amiable atmosphere in the town square that gives way to a chilling conformity to a brutal tradition. Another piece of evidence is the shock and outrage from New Yorker readers upon the story's publication, indicating that their perspective shifted significantly from intrigue to outrage and confusion.