Tessie Hutchinson in Shirley Jackson’s “The Lottery” serves as a powerful symbol of the scapegoat in society. Initially, Tessie is portrayed as just another member of the community, participating in the lottery with enthusiasm. However, once her family is chosen, her demeanor shifts drastically, revealing the flawed nature of the tradition.
Her character represents the arbitrary cruelty of societal norms and the consequences of blind conformity. Tessie’s desperation and refusal to accept her fate highlight how individuals can become victims of the very traditions they uphold. This shift from a participant to a victim illustrates the randomness of violence in society and raises questions about morality and complicity within communal rituals. Ultimately, Tessie’s symbolism serves as a critique of how society sacrifices individuals for the sake of tradition and how easily people can turn against one another when faced with the enforcement of such customs.