The publication of “The Lottery” in The New Yorker prompted many readers to write letters expressing their feelings about it. What would you say to the magazine’s editors about the story’s events and its overall meaning? Write your own letter, following these steps. Support your explanation of your reaction and interpretation with specific evidence from the story. Conclude by relating what you have discussed to the broader issue of whether the story should have been published.

Select the quote that best shows character. “why should he disturb my peace? ” “excuse me, sir, i am not accustomed to listen to such expressions or to such a tone of voice. i want to hear no more.” “the dear lady may well have taken me for a brigand.” “then you won’t pay me now? eh? ”

Indicate which statement best summarizes how john proctor feels toward the reverend parris based on his statenents of him in the crucible.

Read the excerpt from act 3 of a doll’s house. mrs. linde: you seemed to me to imply that with me you might have been quite another man. krogstad: i am certain of it. mrs. linde: is it too late now? krogstad: christine, are you saying this deliberately? yes, i am sure you are. i see it in your face. have you really the courage, then—? mrs. linde: i want to be a mother to someone, and your children need a mother. we two need each other. nils, i have faith in your real character—i can dare anything together with you. krogstad [grasps her hands]. , , christine! now i shall find a way to clear myself in the eyes of the world. ah, but i forgot— how does the conflict in this passage develop a theme? mrs. linde creates a conflict by promising something she cannot give to krogstad, which develops the theme that empty promises can destroy relationships. krogstad continues the conflict by choosing clearing his name over having a life with mrs. linde, which develops the theme that you must often choose yourself over others. krogstad creates a conflict by deceiving mrs. linde about his intentions, which develops the theme that, in love, actions speak louder than words. mrs. linde resolves the conflict by committing to a new life with krogstad, which develops the theme that new beginnings are always possible.