In literature, symbols are often used to deepen the meaning of a story or to indirectly convey an idea. In "The Lottery," Shirley Jackson uses symbolism to reveal the annual ritual known as the Lottery and the consequences of unquestioned traditions. Most people who drew the lottery were more concerned about being stoned to death and their beliefs than the value of the human life they were about to destroy. From the title of the story to the atmosphere leading up to this ritual, one would assume that someone will gain something, but with the symbolism of the usage, Jackson is able to use names, objects and the setting to disguise the true meaning and intention of the lottery. Jackson uses the names of each major character to have significant meaning for the lottery. It uses symbolic names to indicate and foreshadow what will happen after the lottery takes place. First, the name “Dellacroix” (Jackson, 137) which translates to “Of the Cross” in French provokes a feeling of religious association with the ritual. Second, “Summers” (Jackson, 137) is the last name of the conductor of the lottery, and summers are generally positive, with people enjoying the sunshine. The lottery takes place during the summer and Mr. Summers' assistant is "Mr. Summers". Graves” (Jackson. 137). This suggests that there will be a "Tomb" during the "summer". Additionally, Mr. Summers owns a coal-fired power plant and coal represents a dark stone which correlates with the use of the stone to end Mrs. Hutchinson's life. The objects used in the story also add religious and symbolic meanings to the story. lottery. The black dot on the paper represented death and the end of the life of the one who had to choose that particular paper, it represents the...... middle of paper ...... because the symbols of the story have never been fully explained. The story itself symbolizes tradition, the unquestioned traditions that exist not only in society, of the lack of individuality and critical thinking, but also of the lack of action. If there is a problem and everyone has thought of the same solution, then there is a feeling of conformity. This conformity could prevent progress because there would be no one to criticize. The Lottery strongly shows the bandwagon effect because, despite the marital union between Mr. and Mrs. Hutchinson and the relationship between Mrs. Hutchinson and her son; Mr. Hutchinson participated in the stoning of his own wife. When part of a group, people tend to lose their individuality and often experience peer pressure. The fact that Mrs. Hutchinson saved her son's life but participated in the end of his days raises questions about human loyalty and gratitude..