Posted by Amanda DeMeo on January 27, 2000 at 20:41:12:
We know Shirley Jackson's "The Lottery" is written in third person because as the story is read, we are not looking through any one character's eyes. The reader is allowed a mass perspective on the day's event. I feel "The Lottery" was written in this style in order to add to the mystery of the event and to encourage repeat readings of the story. I read this story years ago and I remember the dark mood creeping into the story. Now that I am more familiar with the tale, the third person perspective helps me appreciate the story without becoming emotionally attached to the characters. Being emotionally involved with a character, especially the winner, would not make this story an enjoyable read.
Comparing the story to real life--barbaric events, causes this story to hit home. Inhumane acts are seen in modern day as well as throughout history, most all obtain their strength by involving a group of people.
The theme is that just because everyone else is taking part in a behavior, a person should follow their own instinct of what is right and wrong, not being influenced by others.