Question #N497
The story "The Lottery" by Shirley Jackson uses a tone of normalcy and routine to highlight the horror of the story's central event. The villagers are described as going about their everyday activities in a matter-of-fact way, which makes the sudden violence all the more shocking. What is the most likely reason that Jackson uses this tone?
The author of "The Lottery" uses a tone of normalcy to
A. make the reader question the morality of the villagers.
B. emphasize the shocking nature of the lottery.
C. create a sense of suspense and anticipation.
D. contrast the villagers' peaceful lives with the violence of the lottery.
Correct Answer is: B
The author uses the tone of normalcy to make the violence of the lottery seem even more shocking. The contrast between the seemingly normal activities of the villagers and the sudden brutality of the lottery creates a sense of surprise and horror.