Final answer:
Tradition can have a significant impact on our lives, providing a sense of belonging and stability. However, blindly following traditions without critical examination can be dangerous. In 'The Lottery,' tradition is shown to have a dark impact, while in 'A Very Old Man with Enormous Wings,' tradition clashes with curiosity.
Step-by-step explanation:
In literature, tradition often plays a significant role in shaping characters' lives and actions. It can impact the way people live by influencing their beliefs, values, and behaviors. Continuing traditions can provide a sense of belonging, identity, and stability. It can also help preserve cultural heritage.
However, there can be dangers in blindly continuing traditions without critical examination. In Shirley Jackson's 'The Lottery,' tradition is shown to have a dark and harmful impact on society, as it involves the ritualistic stoning of a member of the community each year. The story highlights the danger of blindly following tradition without questioning its morality or purpose.
In contrast, in another story, such as Gabriel Garcia Marquez's 'A Very Old Man with Enormous Wings,' tradition may have a different role. The story explores the clash between tradition and curiosity, as the townspeople's tradition clashes with their fascination for an extraordinary creature. This highlights how traditions can both restrict and inspire individuals.