A FEMINIST STUDY IN SHORT STORY ‘THE LOTTERY’ BY SHIRLEY JACKSON

Abstract

This research examines Shirley Jackson’s The Lottery using feminist literary criticism. The study focuses on how patriarchal values, gender hierarchy, and female representation are constructed through characters, dialogue, and social structure in the story. Using a qualitative descriptive approach, the analysis reveals that male characters dominate decision-making roles, while women are positioned as passive followers of tradition. The ritual lottery reflects a patriarchal system where women have limited agency and are socialized to accept oppressive cultural norms. The character of Tessie Hutchinson becomes the central symbol of resistance; however, her protest is ignored and silenced by both men and women, illustrating how patriarchal systems suppress female autonomy. The findings demonstrate that the story exposes normalized violence, inequality, and the marginalization of women in society.