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Jan 9, 2024

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Assignment Title: Analyzing Narrative Techniques in Literature Instructions: Select a Short Story: Choose a short story from the provided list or select one of your choice. Narrative Techniques: Identify and analyze three narrative techniques used in the story. These could include point of view, characterization, setting, symbolism, or any other literary device. Write-up: Compose a 2-3 page essay discussing the narrative techniques you've identified, providing examples from the text to support your analysis. References: Include a bibliography citing the short story and any additional sources used. Selected Short Story: "The Lottery" by Shirley Jackson Narrative Techniques Identified: Point of View: In "The Lottery," the story is narrated in a third-person objective point of view. This narrative technique creates a sense of detachment, allowing the events to unfold without delving deeply into the characters' thoughts or emotions. Example: "They stood together, away from the pile of stones in the corner, and their jokes were quiet and they smiled rather than laughed." Symbolism: The use of symbols such as the black box and the stones symbolize tradition and the brutal consequences of blindly following rituals without questioning them. Example: "Mr. Summers spoke frequently to the villagers about making a new box, but no one liked to upset even as much tradition as was represented by the black box." Foreshadowing: Throughout the story, subtle hints and clues foreshadow the shocking conclusion, building tension and suspense. Example: "Bobby Martin had already stuffed his pockets full of stones, and the other boys soon
followed his example, selecting the smoothest and roundest stones." Essay Response: In Shirley Jackson's "The Lottery," the narrative technique of point of view, specifically the third- person objective perspective, plays a significant role in maintaining a sense of detachment. This technique allows the story to unfold impartially, without delving into the characters' emotions or thoughts, which adds to the shocking impact of the climax. Moreover, the symbolism of the black box and the stones serves as powerful symbols of tradition and the dangers of blindly adhering to rituals. The reluctance to change the black box signifies the villagers' reluctance to question traditions, leading to a chilling outcome. Additionally, the use of foreshadowing through subtle hints and clues prepares the reader for the story's unsettling conclusion. Instances such as the boys gathering stones subtly hint at the eventual stoning, creating a sense of unease and anticipation throughout the narrative. References: Jackson, Shirley. "The Lottery." The New Yorker, June 26, 1948.
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