Final answer:
The theme of 'Lamb to the Slaughter' is that appearances can be deceiving. The author conveys this message through the plot and utilizes characters like Mary Maloney and Patrick Maloney to support the theme.
Step-by-step explanation:
Theme
The theme of a literary work is the main idea, lesson, or message that the author wants to convey. In the short story 'Lamb to the Slaughter,' the theme could be seen as the idea that appearances can be deceiving. The author leads the reader to this theme through various elements in the story.
Author's Message
The author conveys the theme through the plot of the story. Initially, the main character, Mary Maloney, appears to be a loving and devoted wife. However, when her husband reveals a shocking secret, she reacts in a way that challenges this initial perception. This demonstrates how appearances can be deceiving and explores the theme of the story.
Characters
The character of Mary Maloney helps express the theme of appearances can be deceiving. At first, she is portrayed as a caring and innocent wife, but as the story progresses, the reader sees a different side of her. Another character that supports this theme is Patrick Maloney, who hides his true intentions from Mary, leading to the unexpected turn of events. These characters contribute to the development and exploration of the theme in the story.