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AP English Literature and Composition
Multiple Choice

Ironic Elements in 'The Lottery'

Very Hard Prose Analysis Irony And Satire

In the short story 'The Lottery' by Shirley Jackson, the seemingly placid setting of a small town quickly devolves into a shocking ritual. The townspeople gather with a sense of normalcy, and the lottery is perceived as a communal event; however, beneath the surface lies a dark irony regarding tradition and human nature. Consider how Jackson employs this irony to critique social conformity.

Read the following excerpt from the narrative:

“It isn’t fair, it isn’t right,” Mrs. Hutchinson screamed, and then they were upon her.”

Based on the above context, which of the following best identifies an ironic element in the story?

Hint

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