Setting and Conflict in "The Lottery"

Question 9 • Language Arts 8 - ELA3008 IC

What is the best summary of the main conflict in "The Lottery"?

Answer

The main conflict is between an individual and society. In the story, the townspeople have a yearly ritual that involves sacrificing a villager to ensure a good harvest. After Tessie Hutchinson is selected, she is attacked by the entire community.

The main conflict is between the society and an individual. Many members of the younger generation are questioning the need to hold the lottery. Old Man Warner is sure that to do away with the lottery would be foolish and dangerous.

The main conflict is between two characters. Mr. Graves and Mr. Summers disagree about how to continue the customs and rituals of the lottery. They argue about whether or not to use chips of wood or pieces of paper to draw the names for the lottery.

The main conflict is between a character and herself. Tessie Hutchinson is torn between her desire to please her community and her family by quietly and calmly going along with being chosen for the lottery or to resist her fate.

Explanation

The central conflict is between Tessie Hutchinson, an individual, and the society that enforces the lottery. When Tessie is chosen, the townspeople—including her neighbors—stone her as part of the ritual. The story does not show a sustained debate among younger villagers about ending the lottery, so choice B is not the best summary.

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