“The Lottery” (Story and Film) Study Guide
Please complete all of the questions and turn in at the start of next class (5/27). This is
worth 16 points. (2 points per question- make sure that you answer these with detail and
description. If it is worth two points, I want no less than two sentences for each answer.)
1. What is the significance of choosing a small town as the setting for “The
Lottery”? How is it described in the opening paragraph/scenes of the story/film?
Why is it unnamed?
2. What does the story’s title reveal about our everyday lives?
3. Identify examples of irony in the story and film and discuss them.
4. Discuss the symbolic value of the three legged-stool and the black box.
5. Describe the point of view of the story. How does the point of view affect what
we know about the situation? How does it preserve the story's suspense?
6. What could be the significance of the summer season for the story? What is the
significance of the date “June 27th”?
7. What is the symbolic value of the stones?
8. What does the lottery mean to the townspeople in the story? Do they all have the
same reaction? Do they question their obedience? Why? Why not? Provide
examples.
EXTRA CREDIT: You do not have to complete this. However, this will
be worth ten extra credit points.
Just like we did for Taming of the Shrew, I would like you to write me a two page paper
(no more) comparing and contrasting the story with the film.
Be sure to include:

Similarities and differences about the characters, plot, setting, etc.

At the end, tell me which one you would recommend. Which one had a better
story? Why? If you think both were of the same quality, explain to me why and
what you would recommend doing first. (Reading or watching)