Write a paragraph in which you identify and analyze the universal themes in the two stories. Cite specific universal themes and provide details from the two stories to support your analysis. Explain how knowledge of these universal themes can help readers deepen their understanding and appreciation of modern stories.
The two stories, "The Lottery" by Shirley Jackson and "The Most Dangerous Game" by Richard Connell, both explore the theme of the darker aspects of human nature. In "The Lottery," the villagers blindly participate in a tradition of stoning one of their own each year, showcasing the cruelty and conformity of society. Similarly, in "The Most Dangerous Game," General Zaroff hunts human beings for sport, highlighting the depravity and savagery that can exist in even the most sophisticated individuals. By delving into these stories, readers can gain insight into the complexities of human behavior and the potential for darkness within us all. Understanding these universal themes can help readers appreciate the nuances of modern stories that also explore the darker aspects of humanity, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding and appreciation of literature as a whole.
