FAQs
What is "Lamb to the Slaughter" about?
In the story, Mary, a seemingly meek and devoted housewife, murders her husband with a frozen leg of lamb. Under the guise of innocence, she cooks the murder weapon and feeds it to the investigating detectives, ultimately escaping suspicion in a shocking display of cunning and manipulation.
What is the main theme of "Lamb to the Slaughter?"
This literary work explores several themes, with the most prominent being Betrayal. Patrick's betrayal ignites Mary's own act of betrayal, pushing her to defy expectations and unleash unexpected strength and resourcefulness. The story also touches on the theme of Appearance vs Reality, as Mary's seemingly innocent demeanor masks a cunning plan, and the theme of Gender Roles, as Mary subverts the submissive wife stereotype with her decisive actions.
Is "Lamb to the Slaughter" a true story?
No, "Lamb to the Slaughter" is not a true story. It's a fictional short story by Roald Dahl published in 1953. While it deals with relatable themes, the events and characters are entirely made up. However, cases of domestic homicide are not uncommon throughout the world.
What is the meaning of the title "Lamb to the Slaughter?"
The title of the story holds a double meaning that subverts expectations. On the surface, it refers to the innocent lamb that Mary uses as a murder weapon, creating dark humor through its transformation. Deeper yet, it symbolizes Mary herself, initially appearing as a vulnerable "lamb" before unleashing cunning and turning the tables on her betrayer.
What genre is "Lamb to the Slaughter?"
One could categorize this short story as a blend of several genres, including Psychological Thriller, Black Comedy, and Domestic Noir.