‘The Lottery’ by Shirley Jackson is narrated from a third-person objective point of view. This means that the narrator does not offer insights into the characters’ thoughts or feelings but instead presents the story through an external lens, observing the actions and dialogues of the characters.
This point of view is significant as it creates a sense of detachment, allowing readers to experience the events without any bias. By focusing on the villagers’ actions and conversations, the narrator presents a seemingly normal and even mundane setting, which contrasts sharply with the shocking climax of the story. This approach heightens the impact of the conclusion, as readers are left to grapple with the horror of the lottery’s outcome without any emotional guidance from the narrator.
Overall, the third-person objective point of view in ‘The Lottery’ enhances its themes of tradition, conformity, and the capacity for violence hidden beneath the surface of social norms.