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  • Essay / Unveiling the character of Tessie Hutchinson in "The Lottery"

    Table of contentsTessie Hutchinson as a symbol of resistanceThe tragic fate of Tessie HutchinsonTessie Hutchinson and societal criticismConclusionWorks citedTessie Hutchinson, a character in Shirley Jackson's frightening short story "The Lottery" , is a central character whose portrait offers profound insight into human nature, society, and the darkness that can lurk beneath seemingly ordinary settings. “The Lottery” is a story that explores the sinister consequences of blindly following tradition and conformity. In this character analysis essay, we will analyze the character of Tessie Hutchinson, examining her role as a symbol of resistance, her transformation throughout the story, and the broader implications of her fate within the context of the themes of the story. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”?Get the original essayTessie Hutchinson, Symbol of ResistanceTessie Hutchinson is presented as a seemingly ordinary woman, wife and mother of three, who participates in the annual lottery in his small town. However, as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Tessie is more than just a city girl. It appears as a symbol of resistance against blind adherence to tradition and questioning the status quo. Tessie's initial compliance is evident when she joins her fellow citizens in the lottery procedures. Her participation highlights the deeply rooted nature of this ritual within the community. However, as her family is chosen as the "winners" of the lottery, Tessie's attitude changes drastically. She begins to voice her objections and protests against the injustice of the ritual, especially when her husband draws the piece of paper with the black dot that seals her family's fate. Tessie's transformation from conformity to resistance is significant. His character represents the potential for dissent, even in the face of long-established customs. In this way, she challenges readers to question the blind acceptance of tradition and the consequences of refusing to conform to it. The Tragic Fate of Tessie Hutchinson Tessie's character arc takes a tragic turn when she becomes the victim of a brutal lottery. Her initial participation, then vocal objections, ultimately led to her being stoned to death by the very community she had been a part of for years. Tessie's fate serves as a stark warning about the dangers of questioning established norms and authority, even when those norms are inherently unfair. Tessie's tragic end raises thought-provoking questions about sacrifice, conformity, and the darker aspects of human nature. It challenges readers to think about power dynamics within communities and the lengths people go to to maintain the status quo. Tessie's death is a stark reminder that those who challenge existing norms and systems of power risk facing serious consequences. Tessie Hutchinson and societal criticism Beyond her role as a symbol of resistance and her tragic destiny, the character of Tessie Hutchinson serves as a vehicle for societal criticism within the narrative. Shirley Jackson's "The Lottery" is a scathing commentary on the dangers of blind conformity, unquestioning acceptance of tradition, and the potential for cruelty within even the most seemingly ordinary communities. The character of Tessie, the only one to openly resist the lottery, highlights the complacency and complicity of the other inhabitants. His stoning by his neighbors highlights responsibility.