In the story, despite their initial apprehension and discomfort, the villagers participate in the lottery ritual without question, simply because it has been done for generations.
One piece of strong evidence from the text that supports the response is: "Bobby Martin had already stuffed his pockets full of stones, and the other boys soon followed his example, selecting the smoothest and roundest stones;"
What this says about our humanity
The villagers' actions reveal the devastating consequences of unchecked power and the dangerous potential of dehumanization. By participating in the ritualistic sacrifice of Tessie, the villagers removed her individuality and reduced her to a mere object to be disposed of.
This process of dehumanization allows the villagers to justify their actions and distance themselves from the moral implications of their violence. The same is true in the present world where people are eager to go with the crowd to have economic and political power.
Complete Question;
The story is "The Lottery" by Shirley Jackson
Essential question: how do you think the "mob mentality" of the villagers is effectively used in this story? what does this say about our humanity and the bloodlust for violence as a means to advance economic, political, and social agendas? cite one piece of strong evidence from the text that supports your holistic response.