The Lottery and Other Stories

Question 4

Explain why Jackson waits until the end of the story to reveal the conflict- the purpose of the lottery. how would the story be less effective if the conflict were revealed earlier?

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Last updated by Aslan
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I think Jackson is using some plot manipulation here. The lottery has preconceived ideas to most readers. It seems like the village is gathering for something fun. Although there are bits of foreshadowing, the reader can assume the lottery is a good thing. The surprise or twist at the end brings climactic suspense to what seemed like a "nice" town ritual.

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