Characters and Symbols in Lamb to the Slaughter, by Ronald Dohl

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In the short story “Lamb to the Slaughter” by Ronald Dohl, we are taught that we should treat others how we want to be treated or there would be serious consequences. In the short story irony, character and Symbols is gravely portrayed.

Irony is portrayed through Mary Maloney’s actions. She went to the store after she killed her husband; she acted as if nothing happened and gave the grocery clerk the idea that everything was fine. “Perfect she said he will love it” saying this gave Sam the impression that Mr. Maloney is still alive. This was considered irony because the reader knows more about what takes place then some of the characters in the story. The clerk thinks Mr. Maloney is at home waiting for dinner, but really he is lying down dead and he clerk is speaking to his killer, his wife. Another example of Irony is when the police officer are eating the leg of the lamb and one says “Probably right under our noses”. This is irony because the evidence to solve the case is being eaten and they don’t even know of it also it is actually right under these noses because there eating...

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