Lamb To The Slaughter By Roald Dahl

The short story “Lamb to the Slaughter” by Roald Dahl is the best short story we have read so far for its interesting and unique plot, the character development and great use of irony and suspense. The story revolves around Mary Maloney, a wife who is fully devoted to her husband Patrick Maloney, but when she receives a devastating piece of information, Mary's next decisions change her life forever. “...She began thinking very fast. As the wife of the detective, she knew quite well what the penalty would be” (Pg 6, 150) The plot in “Lamb to the Slaughter” is brilliantly crafted and sets itself apart from most other short stories. The story follows a seemingly loving and caring Mary waiting for her beloved husband Patrick to return from work, but it is not long before this peaceful setting becomes unsettling. “All right, she told herself. So I've killed him.” (Pg 6, 148) Mary murders her husband Patrick when

As readers, we could understand Mary’s distress and shock as she tries to cover up the murder of her own, dear husband. The detectives are also well developed, as they try to solve this murder mystery where none of the puzzle pieces come together. Mary and the detective's motives are clear and explicit, adding depth to the story. In addition to this, the use of suspense and irony helps convey the characters' thought process, making readers more engaged and intrigued. The reader is kept in suspense as they wonder if Mary will get caught or if she will be able to slide through the eye of the needle. Again, the use of irony is expertly done, with the murder weapon being a frozen leg of lamb that the unsuspecting detectives eat later that night. The use of irony is unique and unexpected adding to its initial appeal. “Personally, I think it's right here on the premises…Probably right under our noses…” (Pg 13,