A summary and notes about a short story called "Lamb to the slaughter"
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Course
English Home Language
Institution
9th Grade
A summary about a short story called "lamb to the slaughther"with the Themes,Characters,Setting,Plot Structure,Literary Devices and Discussion Questions
Summary
"Lamb to the Slaughter" is a short story about a woman named Mary
Maloney, who is pregnant and devoted to her husband, Patrick. One
evening, Patrick informs Mary that he is leaving her. In a state of shock
and betrayal, Mary grabs a frozen leg of lamb and strikes Patrick, killing
him. She then devises a clever plan to cover up her crime.
Themes
1. Betrayal and Deception: The story explores the theme of betrayal
in relationships, particularly through Patrick's abandonment of Mary.
2. Gender Roles: Dahl plays with traditional gender roles, portraying
Mary as both a loving wife and a cunning murderer.
3. Irony: The story is rich in irony, especially in how Mary uses the
murder weapon to mislead the detectives.
Characters
Mary Maloney: The protagonist; a devoted wife who transforms
from a loving partner to a calculated murderer.
Patrick Maloney: Mary’s husband; his cold demeanor and decision
to leave Mary trigger the central conflict.
Detectives: They represent the law and order but are ultimately
fooled by Mary’s cleverness.
Setting
The story is set in the Maloney home, primarily in the living room
and kitchen, which creates a domestic atmosphere that contrasts
with the violent act.
Plot Structure
1. Exposition: Introduces Mary and Patrick Maloney and their
relationship.
2. Rising Action: Patrick reveals his intention to leave Mary, leading
to her emotional turmoil.
3. Climax: Mary kills Patrick in a moment of passion.
4. Falling Action: Mary concocts a plan to cover her tracks.
5. Resolution: The detectives eat the leg of lamb, unaware that it is
the murder weapon.
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