Vihaan Rawal

Humanities Period 6

“The Lottery” CDCM

5 January 2023

Shirley Jackson's 'The Lottery' portrays its characters as devoid of virtue and empathy, offering
commentary on the basic cruelty and selfishness that exist in human nature. The absence of virtue in
human nature is evident in 'The Lottery' when Little Davy is compelled to take part in the murder of his
mother. As Mrs. Hutchinson faced the impending stoning, with the entire town as witnesses, 'somebody
gave Little Davy a couple of rocks' (6), highlighting the disturbing facets of the communal act. As Little
Davy participates in stoning his mother, his unquestioning involvement exemplifies the inescapable
brutality ingrained in human nature, even within a young child. In the heart of the town square, as Mr.
Summers selects Mrs. Hutchinson's name in the lottery, Mrs. Hutchinson yells in shock, 'There’s Don and
Eva! Make them take their chance!' (5). This incident shows the lack of empathy, illustrating how
individuals are willing to go to extreme measures to secure their own survival, regardless of the
consequences it imposes on others. Mrs. Hutchinson's desperate outcry suggests a willingness to
prioritize her own survival, even at the potential cost of her daughter and son-in-law's well-being.
Moreover, the village serves as a symbolic reflection of the contemporary world, illustrating the
prevalence of apathy, selfishness, and brutality towards others, mirroring the behaviors depicted in the
villagers of 'The Lottery.' Innate human tendencies toward negative actions, fueled by envy and the
relentless pursuit of success and superiority over others in our environment, are evident in both the
fictional society and the broader human world. In conclusion, Shirley Jackson emphatically cautions
against the destructive consequences of selfishness and brutality toward others for our collective human
existence. The remedy lies in embracing compassion and adhering to ethical principles as we move
forward.