Throughout the history of mankind there have been instances of people blindly following traditions and the influence of certain leaders. These instances range anywhere from a family not knowing why they put up a Christmas tree or why they hunt Easter eggs to more radical examples like certain citizens of Germany blindly following the teachings and leadership of Hitler. While some of these traditions and actions are practically harmless others, like following Hitler, can lead to injuries or even the death of thousands. A more modern day example would be some of the supporters of Donald Trump. They seem to be blindly following anything that comes out of his mouth. This has lead to injuries and prejudice at some of his presidential campaign rallies.
…show more content…
The issues and dangers that arise from blindly following tradition and leadership are central focal points in two short stories, “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson and “Dead Man’s Path” by Chinua Achebe Both short stories show the kinds of trouble and destruction that can be brought on by these types of …show more content…
This path cuts through Mr. Obi’s school and is very important to the surrounding villagers. They cling to the traditional beliefs that their deceased ancestors use the path to travel to and from their village. When these views are opposed by Mr. Obi and the path is closed the villagers retaliate and cause damage to the school. A similar symbol is used in “The Lottery.” In this short story the lottery itself is the symbol of tradition. The townspeople gather every year to draw a piece of paper to see who will get stoned to death. These individuals seem to have no remorse for what they are doing simply because it is tradition. Many of these people have simply been raised to believe that this is what they have to do. In the real world certain individuals cling blindly to traditions. An example would be pre-civil rights America. The racism and prejudice shown by some was instilled in them by their parents. They were blindly clinging to a certain world view simply because that was what their family had always done. There seemed to be no care or remorse for the pain, both emotional and physical, that was inflicted on the country’s african american
The issues and dangers that arise from blindly following tradition and leadership are central focal points in two short stories, “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson and “Dead Man’s Path” by Chinua Achebe Both short stories show the kinds of trouble and destruction that can be brought on by these types of …show more content…
This path cuts through Mr. Obi’s school and is very important to the surrounding villagers. They cling to the traditional beliefs that their deceased ancestors use the path to travel to and from their village. When these views are opposed by Mr. Obi and the path is closed the villagers retaliate and cause damage to the school. A similar symbol is used in “The Lottery.” In this short story the lottery itself is the symbol of tradition. The townspeople gather every year to draw a piece of paper to see who will get stoned to death. These individuals seem to have no remorse for what they are doing simply because it is tradition. Many of these people have simply been raised to believe that this is what they have to do. In the real world certain individuals cling blindly to traditions. An example would be pre-civil rights America. The racism and prejudice shown by some was instilled in them by their parents. They were blindly clinging to a certain world view simply because that was what their family had always done. There seemed to be no care or remorse for the pain, both emotional and physical, that was inflicted on the country’s african american