Four Characters in Shirley Jackson's 'The Lottery'

TLDRIn Shirley Jackson's 'The Lottery,' Tessie Hutchinson arrives late to the lottery, becomes increasingly frightened, and ultimately realizes she will be the victim. Bill Hutchinson stoically accepts his fate, while Mr. Summers conducts the lottery with enthusiasm. Old man Warner represents the reluctance to let go of outdated traditions.

Key insights

😱Tessie Hutchinson arrives late to the lottery, indicating her subconscious fear and avoidance.

😢Tessie Hutchinson's fear gives way to anger and panic as she realizes she will be the victim.

😐Bill Hutchinson accepts his fate stoically, deferring to the town's authority in the lottery.

😄Mr. Summers conducts the lottery with enthusiasm, treating it like just another local event.

😡Old man Warner represents the reluctance to let go of outdated traditions and is dismayed by changes.

Q&A

Why does Tessie Hutchinson arrive late to the lottery?

Tessie Hutchinson arrives late to the lottery, possibly unconsciously avoiding it due to her fear.

How does Tessie Hutchinson react when she realizes she will be the victim?

Tessie Hutchinson becomes increasingly frightened, her fear giving way to anger and panic.

How does Bill Hutchinson accept his fate?

Bill Hutchinson accepts his fate stoically, deferring to the town's authority in the lottery.

What is Mr. Summers' attitude towards the lottery?

Mr. Summers conducts the lottery with enthusiasm, treating it like just another local event.

What does old man Warner represent?

Old man Warner represents the reluctance to let go of outdated traditions and is dismayed by changes.

Timestamped Summary

00:09Tessie Hutchinson arrives late to the lottery.

00:33Tessie Hutchinson's fear gives way to anger and panic.

00:40Tessie Hutchinson realizes she will be the victim.

00:44Bill Hutchinson accepts his fate stoically.

01:12Mr. Summers conducts the lottery with enthusiasm.

01:22Old man Warner represents the reluctance to let go of outdated traditions.

01:41Old man Warner is dismayed by changes in the next generation.

01:59Old man Warner associates the lottery with other time-bound traditions.