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Lamb to the Slaughter Essay Topics & Writing Assignments

Essay Topic 1

Define “black comedy” and discuss how black comedy applies to the story “Lamb to the Slaughter.” What elements in the story are funny? Why are they funny? Do you think the author intends for the reader to find the story humorous or frightening?

Essay Topic 2

Describe the setting of “Lamb to the Slaughter” and the time period in which the short story was published. What literary movements took hold in America and Europe during the Post-War period? What qualities defined these movements? How is the setting of the 1950s evident in the story?

Essay Topic 3

Define “narrative point of view” and discuss the point of view of “Lamb to the Slaughter.” Is the story related in the past, present or future tense? Is the story told from a first, second, or third person point of view? How limited is the narrator’s perspective? Why do you...

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A Summary and Analysis of Roald Dahl’s ‘Lamb to the Slaughter’

By Dr Oliver Tearle (Loughborough University)

‘Lamb to the Slaughter’ is a 1953 short story by Roald Dahl (1916-90), which was initially rejected for publication but was later adapted for television on several occasions. Included in Dahl’s collections Someone Like You (1953) and Tales of the Unexpected (1979), the story is about a wife who murders her unfaithful husband with a frozen leg of lamb before hatching a plan to ensure she isn’t caught for her crime.

Before we offer an analysis of ‘Lamb to the Slaughter’, it might be worth recapping the plot of Dahl’s story.

Plot summary

Mary Maloney is waiting at home for her husband, Patrick, to get home from work. He is a detective. She is six months pregnant with their child. When he gets home, she pours them both a drink and notices that Patrick has drained his glass more swiftly than he usually does. He pours himself another whisky before revealing to his wife that he plans to leave her.

Mary is stunned by this revelation, and initially wants to act as though it hasn’t happened. She decides to go and get some food from the freezer that she can cook for their dinner. She finds a leg of lamb in the freezer, and when her husband announces he’s going out, she strikes him on the back of the head with the lamb leg, killing him.

Immediately she starts to think about how to cover her tracks so she won’t be caught. She puts the meat in the oven to cook. After rehearsing what she will say to the nearby grocer, she goes out to his shop and buys some potatoes and peas to go with the roast lamb. When talking to the grocer, Sam, she acts as though everything is all right and her husband is waiting for her back home.

When she returns home, she talks herself into believing her husband is still alive, so she is genuinely shocked when she sees his body lying on the floor. She phones the police to report that he has been murdered, and a group of detectives – who knew Patrick from work – show up to investigate his death.

The detectives make a thorough search of the house, believing that Patrick was murdered by a heavy metal implement. So they search for something that could have been used as the murder weapon. They remain in the house for so long that Mary offers them all a drink. They reluctantly accept and, when she is reminded of the lamb cooking in the oven, she suggests that they eat it since they must be hungry.

Again, they agree, and as they sit around the table eating the leg of lamb which killed their former colleague, they remain oblivious to the fact that they are, in fact, destroying the evidence themselves. In the next room, Mary giggles.

Dahl’s story was suggested by his friend Ian Fleming, who created James Bond. Dahl adapted Fleming’s Bond novel You Only Live Twice for the big screen; he also co-wrote the screenplay for the film Chitty Chitty Bang Bang , which was also based on a Fleming novel. And it was Fleming who suggested the idea for ‘Lamb to the Slaughter’, telling his friend that he should write a story about a woman who murders her wife with a leg of mutton (not lamb) which she then serves to the investigating officers.

‘Lamb to the Slaughter’ can be categorised as a horror story (although given the lack of any supernatural element, ‘thriller’ is perhaps a more apposite label), although we should also pay attention to the darkly humorous elements of the tale: features in keeping with Dahl’s writing as a whole.

The story reflects – but then subverts – a common trope of the early 1950s: namely, the wife as the faithful homemaker while the husband goes out to work. At the beginning of ‘Lamb to the Slaughter’, Mary Maloney cannot do enough for her husband, waiting patiently and eagerly for him to arrive home, fetching his drink, asking him about his day.

But when the stability of her world crumbles in a few minutes, when Patrick tells her that he is leaving her (although it isn’t mentioned, we assume he has met someone else), she changes very quickly – and easily – from dutiful wife to cold-blooded murderer.

In other words, once the role she has settled into over the years, that of being ‘Mrs Patrick Maloney’, is taken away from her, she finds herself able to switch in and out of that role with ease. After a brief rehearsal at home, she is able to convince the grocer that she is still the dutiful wife once again: an act she performs again for the policemen.

Dahl makes it clear that she doesn’t murder her husband out of fear of being penniless without the money from him, the breadwinner of the family: he makes it clear he will continue to provide for her financially. Instead, her motive is more complex. Does she kill him out of jealousy or spite, or resentment at having conceived the child of a man who doesn’t even intend to hang around long enough to see it born?

Dahl leaves these questions open for us to discuss. Note how, in the moments preceding that decisive moment when she strikes her husband with the leg of lamb, her movements become automatic, as if she is being guided by some other force. Her unconscious? The concentrated righteous anger of ‘a woman scorned’? Dahl tells us that she ‘simply’ walked up to her husband and struck him with the lamb.

It is as if she is performing some perfunctory task, almost as though the mundane and automatic business of housework has been extrapolated to incorporate the business of murder. She doesn’t appear to lash out in a moment of fury, cold or otherwise. It is almost as if she feels she has no other choice.

There is obviously a grim irony in the method she uses to dispatch her husband. The roast joint cooking in the oven is the symbol par excellence of the good 1950s housewife, feeding her husband after a long day at work. There is also symbolism in the fact that this food, meant to be an offering from wife to husband, is used instead to kill the husband, with the deadly weapon being given instead to a host of other men (who, as policemen, are also stand-ins for the dead husband in some respects).

In the last analysis, then, ‘Lamb to the Slaughter’ is a short story about how easily the meek and loving housewife can transform into a cold and calculating killer. It is Mary’s sudden change that makes the story so unsettling, and the lack of remorse she shows for her crime; but her choice of murder weapon and method of disposing of the evidence make this story as much black comedy as out-and-out horror tale.

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Lamb to the Slaughter – Summary and Questions and Answers

Table of Contents

Lamb to the Slaughter

Introduction

Roald Dahl(1916-1919) was a British novelist, short story writer and poet. His first published work A Piece of Cake, in the Saturday evening post was an account of the incident when he was at the Royal Air force.

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Short Summary of Lamb to the Slaughter

This darkly humorous story is a modern, yet classic tale of irony and suspense. Mary Maloney eagerly awaits her husband Patrick’s arrival home from work. When he finally arrives, it is obvious that something is wrong. He tells his wife that that he is leaving her. Shocked beyond reply, Mary begins cooking dinner. She grabs a large leg of lamb from the freezer. She walks up behind her husband and hits him on the head with the frozen meat, killing him. Then she places the leg of lamb into the hot oven. To establish an alibi, she goes out to the market and calmly asks the shopkeeper for potatoes and peas for her husband’s dinner. When she returns home, she calls the police, pretending to have just discovered her husband’s body.

Hours later, as the police search for the murder weapon, Mary begs them all to eat the leg of lamb she has cooked so that it won’t go to waste. The story ends with a final ironic twist as the police officers consume the leg of lamb, all while discussing the mysterious disappearance of the murder weapon.

Title of Lamb to a slaughter

Lamb to a slaughter is a phrase from the Bible that means in an unconcerned manner. The allusion refers to the helplessness of the innocent lambs that are being led to the slaughter.

The lambs are oblivious of the imminent catastrophe that awaits them, lambs are also supposed to be helpless. In this story, the figure of the lamb takes on two roles: as both a victim and a source of violence or sacrifice. Both Mary and her husband Patrick take on the roles of figurative lambs as they sacrifice each other. However, while Patrick sacrifices Mary’s role as his wife by leaving the marriage, Mary sacrifices Patrick’s life, killing him with a frozen leg of lamb. The transformation of the lamb from an object of sacrifice to a tool of violence signals Mary’s transformation from submissive housewife to violent killer, and resonates in the double meaning and black humour of the story’s title: whereas the Maloneys are both lambs to be slaughtered figuratively or literally, the lamb, or rather the frozen leg of lamb, is also used as an instrument of slaughter. Once the policemen are called to investigate Patrick’s murder, then, the lamb comes to represent both a sacrifice for the detectives (as food) and a weapon against them (as that sacrifice as food entails the destruction of evidence).

IMPORTANT QUESTIONS ANSWERED

Question 1.

How does the setting of the 1950s influence the story?

Overall, the setting of the 1950s in America, with its harsh societal attitudes towards divorce and the challenges faced by unmarried pregnant women, shapes the story in a way that highlights Mary’s vulnerability, financial dependence, and the stakes of her situation. It creates an oppressive atmosphere where social expectations and restrictions play a significant role in driving the narrative forward and adding depth to the characters’ motivations and actions.

Question 2.

What is the plot summary of “Lamb to the Slaughter”?

“Lamb to the Slaughter” is a short story that revolves around Mary Maloney, a devoted wife eagerly awaiting the return of her husband, Patrick Maloney, who is a police officer. When Patrick arrives home, he seems distant and quietly accepts the drink prepared by Mary. They usually dine out on Thursdays, but sensing his fatigue, Mary offers to cook dinner. Amidst her advanced pregnancy, Patrick interrupts her, insisting that she listen to what he has to say. Although he never explicitly states it, Patrick implies that he plans to leave her. In shock, Mary proceeds with making dinner while Patrick announces his departure and exits the house.

Left alone, Mary retrieves a frozen leg of lamb from the basement freezer to cook for dinner. As she enters the den, she finds Patrick with his back turned, and without hesitation, she strikes him with the leg of lamb, instantly killing him. Stunned by her own actions, Mary realizes the seriousness of her crime and quickly devises a plan to cover it up. She places the lamb in the oven and goes to the local grocer to buy the vegetables needed for the meal. Upon returning home, she “discovers” her husband’s lifeless body and promptly calls the police, who are also friends of the family.

The police arrive swiftly and begin their investigation, while Mary, appearing tired and distraught, tearfully pleads with them to allow her to finish cooking dinner. Out of sympathy for the grieving widow, they reluctantly agree. As they all sit down to enjoy the lamb, the detectives discuss the details of the case, each convinced that the murder weapon is likely right in front of them but remains undiscovered.

Question 3.

Who stars in the well-known adaptation of “Lamb to the Slaughter” in Alfred Hitchcock Presents?

In the well-known adaptation of “Lamb to the Slaughter” in Alfred Hitchcock Presents, the star of the show is Barbara Bel Geddes.

Question 4.

What are some adaptations of the short story “Lamb to the Slaughter”?

There have been various adaptations of the short story “Lamb to the Slaughter” over the years. One notable adaptation features Barbara Bel Geddes in the acclaimed television series Alfred Hitchcock Presents. Additionally, the story has been brought to life in the television show Tales of the Unexpected and even in a Bollywood film called Haseen Dillruba. Furthermore, a Hindi adaptation entitled Bloody Swine also exists, adding to the diverse range of adaptations this captivating short story has received.

Question 5.

When was the story first published?

According to the passage, “Lamb to the Slaughter” made its initial debut when it was published in the September 1953 edition of Harper’s Magazine. The passage explicitly states that this particular story was first made available to the public in the aforementioned magazine issue.

Question 6.

What are some of the symbols used in the story?

In the story “Lamb to the Slaughter,” several symbols are employed to convey deeper meanings. One of these symbols can be seen at the beginning of the story when Mary is portrayed as the lamb being led to the slaughter. Initially, Mary appears to be innocent and unsuspecting, much like a lamb oblivious to its impending fate. However, as the plot unfolds, Mary’s true nature is revealed when she uses a frozen leg of lamb as a weapon to kill her husband, Patrick. This act transforms Patrick from the perceived lamb into the actual “lamb to the slaughter.” The irony lies in Patrick’s complete unawareness of Mary’s intentions, making him helpless and unsuspecting just like a lamb led to its demise. This symbol serves to highlight the shocking twist in the story and the unexpected transformation of the characters.

Question 7.

What themes are explored in “Lamb to the Slaughter”?

The themes explored in “Lamb to the Slaughter” can be examined through the characterization of Mary Maloney and the role of food in the story. At the beginning of the story, Mary is depicted as a devoted wife and caretaker for her police officer husband, Patrick. She embodies the archetypal 1950s housewife, fulfilling traditional gender roles by tending to her husband’s needs and eagerly awaiting their baby’s arrival. Divorce is unthinkable for Mary, not only because of her financial dependence on her husband but also due to the societal stigma attached to it during the 1950s. Mary’s commitment to her husband and her efforts to ensure his happiness are evident, making his sudden announcement of leaving her a profound betrayal.

The theme of betrayal is closely intertwined with the actions Mary takes following Patrick’s announcement. Unlike a crime of passion, Mary coolly and methodically uses a frozen leg of lamb as a murder weapon. This subversion of expectations disrupts traditional notions of femininity and domesticity. Furthermore, the story highlights the way in which common household objects and activities can be turned into tools or methods of destruction. Food, which typically sustains life, becomes a means to end Patrick’s life, symbolizing the twisted nature of Mary’s revenge. Additionally, Mary incorporates the food she purchases from the store into her plan to cover up the murder, further emphasizing the themes of deception and manipulation.

In summary, the themes explored in “Lamb to the Slaughter” revolve around the notion of betrayal, the subversion of traditional gender roles, and the perversion of everyday objects and activities. The story challenges societal expectations and presents the darker side of seemingly ordinary domestic life.

Question 8.

What is the main conflict in the story?

The main conflict in the story “Lamb to the Slaughter” centers around the strained relationship between Mary and her husband Patrick. Their conflict reaches its peak when Patrick reveals his intentions of leaving Mary and their unborn child. This announcement sets off a series of events that drive Mary to take drastic measures in order to protect her own happiness and family.

Question 9.

What is the summary of the short story “Lamb to the Slaughter”?

In the short story “Lamb to the Slaughter,” the narrative begins with a pregnant woman named Mary Maloney eagerly awaiting her husband Patrick’s return from work. Mary sets up Patrick’s usual evening cocktail and prepares herself for his arrival. When Patrick finally comes home, she notices that he drinks his cocktail quickly, implying his exhaustion from his day as a policeman. Concerned for his well-being, Mary offers to fetch his slippers to alleviate his aching feet, but Patrick declines her offer. Surprisingly, Patrick then delivers unexpected and shocking news to Mary.

Question 10.

What does the phrase “like a lamb to the slaughter” mean and what is its origin?

The phrase “like a lamb to the slaughter” is used to describe a situation where an innocent person is unknowingly being led to their demise. It is commonly employed to depict instances where someone is summoned to a meeting or placed in a situation without being aware of the true purpose or outcome, similar to the way a lamb is led to be slaughtered without understanding its fate.

The origin of this phrase can be traced back to various sources, including biblical references. In the Old Testament books of Jeremiah and Isaiah, we find specific passages that connect to the meaning of this phrase. Jeremiah 11:19 describes the act of being led to slaughter unknowingly, while Isaiah 53:7 portrays the notion of being oppressed and afflicted, comparing it to a lamb being led to the slaughter.

Furthermore, the phrase may also allude to the New Testament story of Jesus, who was an innocent man that, according to biblical accounts, was crucified. His crucifixion can be seen as an embodiment of the phrase “like a lamb to the slaughter,” as he was led to his death innocently and without resistance.

In summary, the phrase “like a lamb to the slaughter” conveys the idea of an innocent individual unknowingly being led towards their inevitable downfall. Its origins can be found in biblical passages such as Jeremiah 11:19 and Isaiah 53:7, as well as potentially drawing inspiration from the story of Jesus’ crucifixion in the New Testament.

Question 11.

What does the lamb symbolize in “Lamb to the Slaughter”?

In the short story “Lamb to the Slaughter,” the lamb takes on a symbolic role, representing far more than its usual connotations of innocence and vulnerability. As the narrative unfolds, the lamb becomes a powerful symbol of transformation and agency, embodying both Mary’s desperate attempt to regain control and her surprising capacity for manipulation.

Initially, the lamb represents Mary’s vulnerable state, much like its traditional symbolic meaning. Mary is portrayed as a dutiful wife, devoted to her husband Patrick. However, everything changes when Patrick reveals his intention to leave her. In this moment, Mary personifies the lamb in the emotional sense, weakened and defenseless, as her world appears to crumble around her.

However, the lamb takes a drastic turn in symbolism when it becomes the unexpected instrument of Patrick’s murder. Mary’s desperation and desire to protect her unborn child drive her to act in a way that seems unthinkable – using the frozen leg of lamb as a weapon. Here, the lamb represents a twisted form of justice, as Mary cunningly executes her plan, striking Patrick down with shocking force.

Furthermore, the lamb also symbolizes Mary’s transformation and reversal of power dynamics. As a meek and submissive wife at the beginning of the story, Mary’s actions with the lamb signify her agency and the reclaiming of her control. By turning the lamb into a weapon, she signifies her shift from a victim to a protagonist, taking matters into her own hands and actively manipulating the situation to her advantage.

Moreover, the lamb’s symbolic meaning extends to the unexpected consequences that follow. After disposing of the murder weapon by cooking it as a meal for the police, Mary serves the lamb leg to the very people who are investigating her husband’s murder. In this sense, the lamb represents both irony and metaphorical nourishment, as Mary cleverly uses her culinary skills and the unsuspecting police officers to evade suspicion.

In conclusion, in “Lamb to the Slaughter,” the lamb symbolizes far more than innocence and vulnerability. It serves as a potent symbol of transformation, agency, justice, and unexpected consequences. Through the lamb, Mary’s character development is vividly portrayed, revealing her ability to adapt , manipulate, and ultimately control her own destiny.

Question 12.

Why did Mary kill her husband in “Lamb to the Slaughter”?

In the story “Lamb to the Slaughter,” Mary takes a drastic and unexpected action by killing her husband, Patrick. The decision emerges from a complex combination of circumstances and emotions that ultimately drive her to commit such a desperate act of violence.

One crucial factor in Mary’s decision is her vulnerability and dependence on Patrick. As a pregnant woman who is unable to support herself financially, Mary relies heavily on her husband for her own well-being and the well-being of their unborn child. Faced with the prospect of Patrick leaving her, Mary is confronted with an uncertain future, filled with the challenges of single parenthood and potential social stigma. The fear of being unable to provide for herself and her unborn child serves as a powerful motivator for Mary to take extreme measures to maintain her current lifestyle.

Furthermore, the idea of divorce in the society Mary and Patrick live in carries a significant social stigma. Divorce is seen as a failure and carries a certain level of shame, especially for women. Despite her own unhappiness in the marriage, Mary is unwilling to accept the societal judgment and the potential consequences divorce would bring, such as being ostracized by friends and neighbors. This fear of both judgment and the resulting isolation further intensifies Mary’s desperation and fuels her drastic decision to kill Patrick.

Mary’s emotional state also plays a crucial role in her actions. The combination of her pregnancy hormones and the shock of Patrick’s sudden announcement deeply affects her emotional stability. Mary may experience a heightened sense of vulnerability, fear, and anger, potentially clouding her judgment and leading her to react impulsively in a moment of intense emotional turmoil.

It is important to note that Mary’s decision to kill Patrick in “Lamb to the Slaughter” represents a deeply flawed and morally questionable response to her circumstances. However, understanding the complex web of factors that drive her to commit this act of violence provides insight into her mindset and the intricate motivations behind her actions.

Question 13.

What is the main message of “Lamb to the Slaughter”?

The primary theme conveyed in “Lamb to the Slaughter” is the deceptive nature of appearances. While Mary is initially portrayed as a seemingly ordinary and submissive housewife, the story reveals that she possesses a capacity for extreme violence. This theme highlights the idea that outward appearances can often mask inner complexities and hidden depths within individuals. By presenting Mary as an unsuspecting murderer, the story challenges preconceived notions and prompts readers to question their own judgments based solely on surface impressions. Through its exploration of the deceptive nature of appearances, “Lamb to the Slaughter” serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of underestimating others and the potential consequences of overlooking the multifaceted nature of human beings.

Question 14.

Is “Lamb to the Slaughter” a true story?

No, “Lamb to the Slaughter” is not a true story. The popular short story was not based on any actual events or real-life incidents. Instead, the idea for the story originated with Ian Fleming, the famous creator of James Bond, who suggested the plot to Roald Dahl. Dahl then developed the story and brought it to life with his unique writing style and narrative approach. Thus, while “Lamb to the Slaughter” captivates readers with its suspenseful and engaging storyline, it is purely a work of fiction.

Question 15.

What are the themes of this story? Explain.

The themes explored in this story revolve around betrayal and the societal expectations of gender roles. Through the narrative, the concept of betrayal is evident in both the actions of the husband and the wife. The husband’s act of betrayal unfolds when he confesses to his wife, Mary, his intention to leave her. This breach of trust serves as a catalyst for Mary’s own act of betrayal, as she takes his life.

Additionally, this story delves into the societal expectations surrounding gender roles. Here, the narrative highlights the traditional role imposed on women, depicting them as confined to the domestic sphere where they are expected to fulfill the duties of cooking, cleaning, and maintaining the household. This depiction underscores the imbalanced power dynamic within the relationship, where the husband’s betrayal challenges Mary’s perceived role and ultimately leads to an extreme response on her part.

These themes of betrayal and gender roles intertwine to shed light on the complex dynamics within relationships and the impact of societal expectations. By exploring the consequences of betrayal and challenging traditional gender roles, the story offers a critique of the limitations and complications that can arise within personal relationships.

Question 16.

Why is the setting significant to the plot of this story?

The setting of the story, taking place in a town in America during the 1950s, holds great significance to the plot. During this era, there existed a pervasive societal stigma surrounding divorced women. This stigma not only influenced the way people perceived divorced individuals, but also affected their social standing and opportunities for a fresh start. In the case of our protagonist, Mary, the weight of this societal disapproval may have played a crucial role in shaping her actions.

The 1950s in America, often portrayed as a time of strict social norms and conservative beliefs, was marked by an emphasis on the traditional roles of women in society. Divorce, being deemed morally unacceptable and culturally taboo, became a source of disgrace for women, who were expected to conform to the ideal of the nuclear family.

Within the context of this setting, Mary’s decision to act out and commit such a heinous act as killing her husband gains a deeper meaning. It can be interpreted as a desperate attempt to break free from the suffocating pressures and condemnation imposed upon her by a judgmental society. Mary’s actions, in a way, reflect a rebellion against the constraints and oppression she faced due to her divorced status.

Moreover, the setting of the story during the 1950s also allows for a nuanced exploration of the experiences and struggles faced by women during that time period. It invites us to examine the psychological and emotional toll that societal expectations and prejudices can have on individuals, especially those who do not conform to prescribed gender roles or societal norms.

Therefore, the setting of the story in a town in America during the 1950s is significant to the plot as it establishes the backdrop against which Mary’s actions are driven and provides a thought-provoking exploration of the societal pressures and stigmas surrounding divorced women in that era.

Question 17.

What is the climax , or turning point, of the story?

The turning point, or climax , of the story occurs when Mary takes a drastic and shocking action by using the leg of lamb as a deadly weapon to kill her husband. This pivotal moment marks the peak of tension and the most significant and impactful event in the narrative. From this point onward, the story takes a new direction as the consequences of Mary’s actions unravel and the characters are forced to face the aftermath of this unexpected act of violence.

Question 18.

What causes the protagonist to act out of character ?

The protagonist’s unexpected behavior can be attributed to a deeply unsettling revelation – the realization that her husband, the person she relied on and trusted, was considering abandoning both her and their unborn child. This revelation triggered an intense surge of panic and pain within her, leading to an unprecedented departure from her usual demeanor and actions. In the face of such distress, she found herself acting in ways that were contrary to her established character , driven by a combination of fear, desperation, and a profound sense of vulnerability.

Question 19.

Who are the minor characters in the story? Explain.

In addition to the central characters, there are several minor characters in the story. One of them is Mary’s husband, Patrick, who plays a supporting role throughout the narrative. He is involved in the events surrounding the crime scene and contributes to the overall development of the plot. Additionally, there are also policemen who are called in to investigate the crime. They are minor characters who appear briefly but serve a crucial purpose in advancing the story and providing insights into the investigation.

PARTIALLY ANSWERED QUESTIONS

Who is the story’s protagonist? Describe this character .

Sub-Questions

What causes a significant change in the protagonist’s character ?

The significant change in Mary Maloney’s character is triggered by her husband’s revelation that he plans to leave her. This news clicks something inside her, leading her to become a murderer.

How does the protagonist initially appear or behave?

Mary Maloney initially appears to be the perfect 1950’s housewife. She is described as doting, giving her husband a drink upon his arrival home, and planning to make supper for him.

What is the protagonist’s role in the story?

Mary Maloney is the only character that is present throughout the entire short story, making her the central figure and protagonist.

What is the primary main character ’s name?

The primary main character ’s name is Mary Maloney.

Full Answer Combined

The story’s protagonist is Mary, the wife of Patrick. In the beginning, she is depicted as a neat and seemingly content housewife, with a slow smiling air about her and a tranquil demeanor. Dahl’s description of her during her sixth month of pregnancy emphasizes her translucent skin, soft mouth, and larger, darker eyes with a new placid look. Mary is portrayed as a calm, saint-like figure who takes care of her husband and enjoys his company. However, as the story unfolds, her character undergoes a transformation due to the shocking news she receives from Patrick, ultimately leading her to commit a heinous act. The initial portrayal of Mary’s serene and devoted nature sets the stage for the unexpected turn of events that follow, presenting a complex and multi-dimensional character .

Who are the major characters in the story? Explain.

Is Mary the only character present throughout the entire short story?

Yes, Mary Maloney is the only character that is present throughout the entire short story.

Who is the primary main character in the story?

The primary main character in the story is Mary Maloney.

The major characters in the story are Mary and Patrick Maloney. Mary is the primary main character , as she is the only character that is present throughout the entire short story. She is described as a neat and seemingly content housewife who takes care of her husband and enjoys his company. Mary is depicted as calm, saint-like, and adoring of Patrick. Her character is central to the plot, as her actions and reactions drive the narrative forward.

Patrick Maloney, on the other hand, plays a significant role in the story as well. He is portrayed as emotionally detached, self-centered, and in control. His demeanor changes Mary, causing her to go from adoring to horrified to robotic in her actions. Patrick’s entrance into the house punctually and his nervous behavior hint that something is different. When he delivers the news to Mary, he appears motionless and emotionless, leaving his motives ambiguous.

In summary, Mary and Patrick Maloney are the major characters in the story. While Mary is the primary main character present throughout the entire narrative, Patrick’s contrasting characteristics and his actions significantly impact the plot. The dynamics between these two characters propel the story forward, adding depth and intrigue to the overall narrative.

Short Questions and Answers

1. Why does Mrs Maloney go to the store to purchase groceries?

A. She needs an alibi to prove that she was not at home.

2 . What was Mr Maloney?

A. Mr Maloney was a detective

3 . What was Mrs Maloney’s intention in getting the lamb from the freezer?

A. She thinks that if she goes back to her business then things would turn normal

4.Who is Jack Noonan?

A. Jack Noonan is a policeman

II.Answer the following questions in a sentence or two each

1. What might be the probable reasons for Patrick to leave his wife?

The probable reasons are Patrick might have fallen in love with another woman or may be blackmailed or might be chased by enemies.

2 . Pick out the evidence from the story to show that Patrick is uneasy about revealing to his wife that he is leaving her?

Ans. Patrick was uneasy as he did an unusual thing. He lifted his glass and drained it in one swallow although there was still half of it. Whenever Mrs Maloney asked about the fetching the food or slippers he just told her to sit down. Before he disclosed about his intention to leave her, he kept his head down and was nervous. He knew very well that it would be a shock for her. He told her that he thought about it a good deal and has decided to tell her right away.

3 .“It wasn’t till then that she began to get frightened “what finally frightened Mrs Maloney?

Ans. When Mrs Maloney offered to cook something for Patrick and got up to go to the kitchen, he asked her to sit down. When she repeatedly insisted that she would get something for him, he asked her to sit down at least for a minute. This showed that he wanted to tell something to her . It was then that she began to get frightened.

4 . How did Mary react to Patrick’s news? Ans. When Mary heard the news her first instinct was not to believe any of it, to reject it all. It occurred to her that perhaps he hadn’t even spoken, that she herself had imagined the whole thing.

She thought that if she went about her business and acted as though she hadn’t been listening then she might find none of it had ever happened.

5. Do you think that the murder of Mr Maloney is a planned murder? Why? Why not?

Ans. No, the murder of Mr Maloney cannot be considered as a planned murder. It was due to a sudden fit of the moment that she killed him. When he told her that he was going out, she might have got the hint that he was leaving her. The thought of killing her husband might not have occurred to her until she took the lamb. Mary simply walked up behind him and without any pause strikes him with the leg of the lamb.

6 . How do you know that police have not ruled Mrs Maloney as a probable suspect?

Ans. The police have not ruled Mrs Maloney out as a probable suspect because one of the policemen says to Jack Noonan that the murder weapon is right there on the premises right under their noses.

7 .“It would be a favour to me if you eat it up.” How would it be a favour to Mary?

Ans. It would be a favour because by eating the lamb they are actually destroying the evidence of the murder and Mrs Maloney would be saved.

8 . Who according to you are/is the lamb/s is the story? Who or what is being slaughtered?

Ans. In this story, the figure of the lamb takes on two roles: as both a victim and a source of violence or sacrifice. Both Mary and her husband Patrick take on the roles of figurative lambs as they sacrifice each other. However, while Patrick sacrifices Mary’s role as his wife by leaving the marriage, Mary sacrifices Patrick’s life, killing him with a frozen leg of lamb. By eating the lamb the policemen are slaughtering the evidence of the murder.

II Answer the following questions in a paragraph

1. Do you think Mary really loved her husband? Support your answer by quoting from the text.

Ans. Mary lovedher husband because she would patiently wait for his return after work glancing at the clock every now and then. She used to kiss him as he came in. she enjoyed the company of her husband after the long hours of loneliness in the house. She loved to luxuriate in the presence of him and felt his presence as a sunbather feels the sun. She loved the way he sat in the chair. The way he came in a door and his mouth, eyes and every movement and keeps calm until he finishes the drink. She is very kind and considerate and tries to satisfy his needs in all the possible way. She repeatedly insists that she would prepare food for him as she cannot bear the thought of letting him hungry. When she returned back from the grocers and sees the dead body of her husband, she couldn’t control her tears. It was not a pretention. This shows that her love was genuine.

2 The author does not reveal what Patrick’s reasons were, for leaving his wife. Why do you think the author does so?

Ans. The author doesn’t reveal the reasons for Patrick’s leaving of his wife because he allows the readers to use their imagination thereby participating in the story.

Guided Questions

1 Read the opening paragraphs. What are your first impressions of the main character , Mary Maloney? Think about the room she is in and its atmosphere, her mood, and her attitude towards her husband.

Ans. Mary appears to be a serene, caring, attentive wife, who prepares carefully and lovingly for her husband’s return from work. The room is warm and clean, there are drinks ready, and she sews as she waits. She knows exactly when he will be back, and looks forward to the ritual of his homecoming. She seems content and happy in her domestic role, since she smiles to herself, and is described as “tranquil”. She is also six months pregnant, which makes her look particularly serene and feminine. She appears to be a conventional “feminine ideal” or stereotype.

2 What is the first sign of conflict between Mary Maloney and her husband? How does Mary respond? Quote from the text.

Ans. The first sign of conflict is when Mary’s husband refuses supper, and this makes Mary feel “uneasy” because he is disrupting a well-established ritual. When he tells her tersely to “sit down”, she begins to be frightened. “She lowered herself back slowly into the chair, watching him all the time with those large, bewildered eyes.”

3 Can you guess what Mr Maloney says to his wife? Does it matter? Why or why not?

Ans. We are not told what Patrick says to Mary, although we suspect it must be something that completely disrupts her sense of security and serenity. It is not what is said that is important, but the impact it has on Mary: how it completely changes her view of her safe little world, and ultimately her behaviour.

4. At the climax of the story, Mary kills her husband with a most surprising murder weapon. What is it?

Ans. Mary kills her husband with a frozen leg of lamb.

5. Why are we so surprised and shocked when Mary kills her husband? Did you suspect what would happen? Why or why not?

Ans. We are shocked by the murder because of our first impressions of Mary as a serene, tranquil and passive wife and mother-to-be. There is nothing in the story to warn us of what Mary is about to do: when she gets the leg of lamb from the deep freeze, we believe she is going to make supper. Because Mary is initially a stereotype of a “perfect” wife and housewife, we cannot foresee that she will murder her husband.

6. In most murder mysteries, the murders are carefully planned beforehand. Here, all the planning happens afterwards. Why does Mary go shopping after killing Patrick?

Ans. She goes to the grocer so that she may calmly pretend to be shopping for her husband’s supper, thus allowing an “intruder” to enter the house and commit the murder while she is out. Mary goes shopping to establish an alibi.

7. What kind of murder weapon do the police look for?

Ans. The police look for a blunt instrument.

8. What makes this the perfect murder?

Ans. This is a perfect murder because Mary can transform the murder weapon from a lethal leg of frozen meat into a delectable supper. Also, the policemen end up eating the murder weapon, unwittingly destroying the evidence.

9. Do you think the title of the story works well? (Think about its different possible meanings.)

Ans. The title works very well because it contains different possible meanings. Firstly, it refers to the leg of lamb that Mary uses to murder her husband and then roasts to destroy the evidence. Secondly, it uses a well-known proverb to refer to Patrick, who is compared to an innocent lamb led to slaughter. (It might in fact also refer to Mary – initially as innocent as a lamb – who is “led to slaughter” her husband).

10. What does Patrick Maloney say to Mary that causes her to snap, bring the frozen leg of lamb down on the back of his head?

Ans. Patrick tells his wife that he will be leaving her.

11. Is Mary Maloney’s murder of her husband premeditated or spontaneous? Explain your answer.

Ans. Mary’s murder of her husband is not premeditated because it was not a thought out, developed plan. Upon hearing the news from her husband, “…everything was automatic now…” She was in a state of shock when she swung the leg of lamb over her husband’s head.

12. What is Mary Maloney’s motive for trying to get away with murder?

Ans. After murdering her husband, Mary accepts her actions. However, once she starts thinking about it, she does not know what would happen to her child. Would it be taken? Killed? Jailed with her?

13. Why does Mary Maloney go to the grocery to shop for a meal she does not plan to serve?

Ans. She goes to the store so that she can have an alibi for the murder of her husband.

14. How can you account for Mary Maloney’s shock and grief when she returns home to find Patrick’s body on the floor?

Ans. She believed that she was serving dinner when she came home, so when she saw her husband lying on the floor, she was in shock and emotionally responded by bawling and hysterically crying.

Hint : Before answering, #13 CONNECT: Is it easy to believe something that turns your world upside down – a shocking new reality that replaces the world as you knew it? Does it seem like a dream at first? If you’ve had an experience like this, give an example.

15. How does Mary Maloney get the police to help her dispose of the murder weapon?

Ans. She serves them the leg of lamb for dinner, thus disposing of any evidence that the police could connect to the murder.

16. How is being a detective’s wife a help to Mary Maloney?

Ans. She knows how crimes are treated/investigated; she is able to identify the loopholes in the system.

17. How does the fact that the detectives knew both Patrick and Mary Maloney affect their investigation?

Ans. They were “kind” to her the entire time during the investigation. They might not be able to look at the investigation objectively.

18. Roald Dahl means for his readers to identify with Mary Maloney, to be on her side, and to giggle with her while the investigators munch on the murder weapon. List strategies Dahl uses to make Mary Maloney a sympathetic character (and Patrick Maloney an unsympathetic one)?

i. Mary is pregnant and her husband is leaving her.

ii. She is a loving, dedicated, and devoted wife; while her husband is portrayed as cold-hearted, unkind, and uncaring.

iii. She is portrayed as the victim the entire time.

Text-Based Questions

Q. At the beginning of the text, how does Dahl describe Mary’s characteristics? What textual evidence does the author use to describe Mary and her house in order to achieve this effect?

Ans. Mary is described as a neat and seemingly content housewife. She has a calm demeanour and is almost saint-like. Dahl writes, “There was a slow smiling air about her and about everything she did. The drop of a head as she bent over her sewing was curiously tranquil. Her skin -for this was her sixth month with child-had acquired a wonderful translucent quality, the mouth was soft, and the eyes, with their new placid look, seemed larger darker than before.” She is the one taking care of her husband making him drinks and taking care of his every need. Mary’s seeming contentment is shown in the following passage: “She, on her side, was content to sit quietly, enjoying his company after the long hours alone in the house. She loved to luxuriate in the presence of this man, and to feel-almost as a sunbather feels the sun-that warm male glow that came out of him to her when they were alone together. She loved him for the way he sat loosely in a chair, for the way he came in a door or moved slowly across the room with long strides. She loved the intent, far look in his eyes when they rested in her, the funny shape of the mouth, and especially the way he remained silent about his tiredness.”

Q. Describe Patrick’s characteristics. What textual evidence does the author use to describe him in order to achieve this effect?

Ans. When the reader first sees Patrick, he might be described as in control, emotionally detached and self-centred. Although he enters the house “punctually” as always, his behaviour shows that he is a bit nervous and something is different this evening. He plays with his glass filled with ice, “holding the tall glass with both hands, rocking it so the ice cubes tinkled against the side.” Dahl’s continued use of the verb “said” to describe Patrick’s dialogue rather than using adjectives which convey emotion can add to the sense of detachment and also provide a sense of ambiguity about his motives. As he prepares to give Mary the news, Dahl writes, “He had now become absolutely motionless, and he kept his head down so that the light from the lamp beside him fell across the upper part of his face, leaving the chin and mouth in shadow. She [Mary] noticed there was a little muscle moving near the corner of his left eye.” The image from the light begins to paint him as negative, in the dark. The little muscle movement could show a little loss of control but still overwhelmingly emotionless. He asked not to be blamed, but as he gives her the news, Mary watches him “with a kind of dazed horror as he went further and further away from her with each word.” During this time, the author gives no indication of the motivation for leaving, adding to the sense of ambiguity of the situation. Finally, although he admits it is a “bad time” for the news (she is pregnant), he hopes that there will be no “fuss” because it would not be “very good” for his job. After he tells her this, he does not turn around to face or address her even when she approaches him from behind with the leg of lamb.

Q. Dahl describes the husband’s glass of whisky and ice several times. How is it described? Why do you think he focuses on this object? Cite textual evidence to support your analysis. Ans. The ice in the glass is described at various times as tinkling “against the side” and “falling against the bottom of the empty glass.” Also, “She [Mary] hears the ice cubes clinking against the side of the glass.” (318) Dahl focuses on the sound of the ice cubes to give readers an understanding of the atmosphere, tension, and the almost deadly silence in the room.

Q. Describe the ways that Patrick’s demeanour and comments change Mary. Why does Mary undergo these changes? Use textual evidence to prove the effect Patrick’s comments have on Mary’s actions.

Ans. Patrick treats her very brusquely telling her to sit down. After he has a second drink and refuses dinner for a second time, he tells her to “sit down…just for a minute, sit down.” This is the first direct order he has given her, a break from the placid personality she has come to expect. He then tells matter-of-fact that he is leaving her. Her actions show her changing from adoring to horrified to robotic (see examples above).

Q. How does Mary’s behaviour at the grocery shop contradict what has happened earlier in the story? Ans. Before going out, she rehearses her smile and greeting, so that she will be able to smile “brightly” at the man behind the counter and have a conversation about needing potatoes and vegetables for the dinner she wants the clerk to think she is making since her husband has said he was “tired and doesn’t want to eat out tonight.” She is able to provide a believable alibi for her time. Although before she was “horrified” regarding the events of the night, now she is in control planning her alibi.

Q. Reread the paragraph that begins with “And now, she told herself as she hurried back…” This paragraph starts off with a long sentence. How does the structure of the sentence reflect her thinking at that moment? Ans. This is where either she becomes a very calculating murderer, planning the steps to her alibi and the way she will be able to get away with the murder, or the point where she breaks totally with reality. The semicolons link like ideas so that all of the sections of this passage are equal in value. Using the conjunction “and” seven times in the passage adds to the layering of pieces of her story. She is trying to explain the events as logically as she could. The length of the sentence also indicates a sense of rambling which may be caused by Mary’s nervousness. Her mind seems to be racing and she is frantic while trying to keep her body as calm as can be.

Q. The police officers do not suspect Mary for the murder. How does her behaviour play a role in assuring this didn’t happen? Ans. She played the role of a distraught wife. For example, she wept hysterically when the officers first came and later continued to sob as she told her story of discovery. The officers did not suspect she was the murderer, they treated her kindly but they only quickly (back in fifteen minutes) checked out her alibi. After it was verified, they seem to have lost interest in her as a suspect. She continued to act innocent as she felt she couldn’t move and didn’t feel too good while the investigation was happening. Finally, she could not “touch a thing” of the meal she had prepared once it was cooked.

Q. What happens to the murder weapon? How does Dahl assure his readers understand the irony of this event? Cite the evidence from the story that foreshadows this event. Ans. The police eat the lamb in the end when Mary offers to feed them. It is literally “under their nose” when that statement is made. Dahl foreshadows this event from the point when Mary takes the leg of lamb, “placed it in a pan, turned the oven on high and shoved it inside.” The cooking meat is again referred to during her trip to the store as she admits to “cooking it frozen” and “taking a chance on it this time.” The grocer becomes an accomplice when he lets her know he doesn’t “believe it makes any difference” when, in fact, cooking does make a difference to her getting away with the crime. Just as the detectives’ voices were “think and sloppy because their mouths were full of meat,” their investigation was sloppy as well. Finally, they admit that she wanted them to finish it as they would be doing her a favour. While they believe that favour was born from hospitality, when, in fact, they did her the favor by destroying the evidence.

Q. Notice how the lighting changes during the course of the text. Cite evidence to show how the lighting has changed. How does this change in imagery reflect the changing character of Mary? Cite textual evidence to support your opinion. Ans. At the beginning of the short text, both lamps are “alight” in the room. At the grocery store, the lights are still on. When the officers appear to investigate, it is dark outside, and Mary notices “ the flash of a torch through a chink in the curtain.”

Mary’s character mirrors the light. She seems content and happy at the beginning symbolized by the lamps being alight. Her soul begins to get dark after she kills her husband and the final darkening of her soul is when she has the officers eat the murder weapon.

Q. Read the Quick Write regarding the allusion to the phrase “going like a lamb to the slaughter.” Why does Dahl title this story “Lamb to the Slaughter?” Who is the “lamb” in the story? Who, or what is being “slaughtered”?

Ans. “Like lamb to slaughter” is a biblical allusion , usually referring to the sacrifice of an innocent, but here it could have many interpretations:

• Mary the innocent lamb being slaughtered by her husband’s words and actions.

• The irony of Mary (the lamb), killing her husband.

• The weapon, a leg of lamb, being cooked and eaten (slaughtered) by the officers.

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Lamb to the Slaughter

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Gender and Marriage

Throughout the short story, Mary Maloney is firmly situated in a patriarchal society—that is, a system in which men hold more power than women politically, socially, and economically. Historically, women have been often consigned to the private sphere of domestic life, as they were deemed by men to be intellectually and emotionally unfit for the public sphere outside of family and home life. Men, on the other hand, were able to move through both spheres…

Role Reversals

Dahl subjects his characters to various reversals in their traditional roles. Most prominent of these role reversals is that of Mary Maloney , whose act of murder defies the policemen’s assumptions about her and about the culprit. By physically attacking her husband, with a club-like weapon no less, Mary subverts gender stereotypes and takes on the traditionally male role of violent attacker and murderer. Her quick thinking and ability to deceive others causes the policemen…

Food/Consumption

Much of “Lamb to the Slaughter” is occupied with eating and food. At the beginning of the story, food is closely linked to domesticity and marriage. Mary ’s repeated attempts to feed Patrick demonstrate not only her affection for her husband but also the role she plays as homemaker and housewife. Similarly, Patrick’s refusal to eat Mary’s food is a rejection of that affection and foreshadows his rejection of the domestic life Mary has built…

Patrick ’s betrayal of his marriage drives the rest of the story’s plot, leading to both his wife’s betrayal and that of his colleagues. When he leaves his wife, Patrick betrays not only the love Mary has for him but also the unborn child she is carrying and their private domestic life together. At the sudden breakdown of her marriage and the world she built around Patrick, Mary commits her own betrayal by killing her…

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Essays on Lamb to The Slaughter

Brief description of lamb to the slaughter.

"Lamb to the Slaughter" is a short story by Roald Dahl that tells the story of a woman who murders her husband with a frozen leg of lamb and then serves it to the investigating officers. The story explores themes of betrayal, revenge, and the unexpected consequences of actions. It is an important work in the mystery and thriller genre, and is often studied in literature classes for its clever plot and character development.

Importance of Writing Essays on This Topic

Essays on "Lamb to the Slaughter" are significant for academic and personal exploration because they allow students to delve into the complexities of the story, analyze its themes, characters, and plot, and develop critical thinking and writing skills. The story presents a rich tapestry of literary elements that can be dissected and examined, making it an excellent subject for academic study and personal reflection.

Tips on Choosing a Good Topic

• Consider the themes: Choose a topic that explores the themes of betrayal, revenge, or the unexpected consequences of actions in the story.
• Analyze the characters: Select a topic that focuses on the characters' motivations, actions, and development throughout the story.
• Explore the plot: Pick a topic that delves into the plot twists, pacing, and structure of the narrative.

Essay Topics

• Analyze the theme of betrayal in "Lamb to the Slaughter."
• Discuss the significance of the frozen leg of lamb as a murder weapon.
• Explore the character of Mary Maloney and her transformation throughout the story.
• Argue whether Mary Maloney is a sympathetic or unsympathetic character.
• Reflect on the theme of revenge in the story and its implications.
• Compare and contrast the portrayal of gender roles in "Lamb to the Slaughter."
• Analyze the use of irony and dark humor in the story.
• Discuss the significance of the title "Lamb to the Slaughter" and its implications for the narrative.
• Explore the role of the investigating officers in the story and their impact on the plot.
• Argue whether the ending of the story is satisfying or unsatisfying.

Concluding Thought

Exploring "Lamb to the Slaughter" through essay writing allows for a deeper understanding of the story's themes, characters, and plot, and encourages critical engagement with the text. By choosing a meaningful and engaging topic, students can develop their analytical and writing skills while gaining insights into the complexities of the narrative.

Characterization in "Lamb to The Slaughter"

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Lamb of The Slaughter': Mary Maloney Character Analysis

Roald dahl’s lamb to the slaughter: literary analysis, theme of irony in lamb to the slaughter by roald dahl, depiction of women in lamb to the slaughter by roald dahl and a jury by her peers by susan glaspell, let us write you an essay from scratch.

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Symbol of The Lamb in Lamb to The Slaughter by Roald Dahl

The use of suspense and plot in lamb to the slaughter, a story by roald dahl, reasons why mary maloney is not a sympathetic character, deception and dark twists: the narrative 'lamb to the slaughter', get a personalized essay in under 3 hours.

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Deception and Irony in "Lamb to The Slaughter"

Main themes in "lamb to the slaughter", theme of lamb to the slaughter.

1954, by Roald Dahl

Short story

The short story is about the murder of police detective Patrick Maloney by his wife Mary. Driven to homicide after her husband's unexpected announcement that he's leaving her and their unborn child, Mary quickly regains her senses after fatally killing him with the leg of lamb.

The main theme in 'Lamb to the Slaughter' is concerned with how we overlook the true nature of a person or situation when we allow preconceived notions to cloud our judgment.

Mary Maloney, Patrick Maloney, and Sergeant Jack Noonan

"Lamb to the Slaughter" demonstrates Dahl's fascination with horror (with elements of black comedy), which is seen in both his adult fiction and his stories for children. The story was suggested to Dahl by his friend Ian Fleming: "Why don't you have someone murder their husband with a frozen leg of mutton which she then serves to the detectives who come to investigate the murder?"

Once the policemen are called to investigate Patrick's murder, then, the lamb comes to represent both a sacrifice for the detectives (as food) and a weapon against them (as that sacrifice as food entails the destruction of evidence).

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Lamb To The Slaughter

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Summary and Study Guide

Summary: “lamb to the slaughter”.

First published in Harper’s Magazine in 1953, “Lamb to the Slaughter” is Roald Dahl’s best-known short story for adults. Dahl (1916 - 1990) was a British novelist, screenwriter, short story author and, arguably, one of the greatest children’s storytellers of the 20th century. Many of his popular children’s books have been adapted for stage and screen, including Charlie and the Chocolate Factory , Matilda , The Witches , James and the Giant Peach , and Fantastic Mr. Fox .

Dahl published four collections of adult stories between 1946 and 1974. His short fiction was often characterized by black humor and macabre plot twists. “Lamb to the Slaughter” was adapted into a television script that Alfred Hitchcock presented in 1958. Many of the author’s other short stories were adapted for the British television series “Tales of the Unexpected,” which aired from 1979 to 1988. Dahl received the 1983 World Fantasy Award for Life Achievement and the British Book Awards’ Children’s Author of the Year in 1990. He was also presented with three Edgar Awards for his short fiction.

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This study guide refers to the 2017 Penguin edition of Skin & Other Stories by Roald Dahl.

Content Warning: The source material contains depictions of domestic violence.

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The story opens on a Thursday evening as Mary Maloney awaits her husband’s return from work. The living room is warm, tidy, and invitingly lit. Mary, who is six months pregnant, occasionally checks the clock as she sits sewing.

At 4:50 p.m., Mary is pleased to hear Patrick Maloney’s car pulling into the drive. She greets her husband at the door, kissing him and calling him “darling” (22). He responds with a brief “Hullo” (23). After hanging up his coat, Mary pours two whiskey and sodas. Giving the stronger drink to her husband, she sits opposite him.

Mary loves this time of day. She knows her husband likes to savor his first drink in silence, and she sits contentedly, happy to be in his presence. However, she is surprised when he quickly gulps down his drink and gets up to pour another. She offers to help him, but he orders her to stay seated. Mary notices that his second whiskey and soda is stronger. He declines her offer to fetch his slippers.

The Maloneys usually go out to eat on a Thursday. Nevertheless, Mary tells her husband she will prepare supper if he is tired. He curtly refuses the offer. Mary moves toward the freezer, and Mr. Maloney again instructs her to “[s]it down” (25). She listens as her husband makes a brief but shocking announcement (the narration does not recount his exact words but implies that he intends to leave his wife). Afterward, Mary stares at him “with a kind of dazed horror” (25). Mr. Maloney admits that the timing of his decision is not ideal but assures Mary that he will provide for her financially. He says he wants to avoid “any fuss” that might adversely affect his career as a police detective (25).

In shock, Mary behaves as if nothing has happened and declares she will make supper. She goes down to the cellar and takes a leg of lamb out of the freezer. When she returns to the living room, Mr. Maloney’s back is turned, and he abruptly announces he is “going out” (26). Without stopping to think, Mary clubs him over the head with the frozen leg of lamb. Mr. Maloney totters for a moment before toppling to the floor.

Coming to her senses, Mary realizes her husband is dead. She knows the penalty for murder is the death sentence. However, she is unsure if her unborn child would be spared this punishment. Although Mary feels that death “would be a relief” for her (27), she is not prepared for her baby to suffer this fate. Thinking quickly, she places the lamb in the oven and tidies her appearance. She smiles at the mirror and practices asking for potatoes and a can of peas in a cheerful voice .

Mary walks to her local grocery store, arriving just before six o’clock. She cheerfully greets the grocer, Sam . Mary explains that she needs peas and potatoes to accompany the lamb she is cooking, as her husband is too tired to eat out. She agrees when Sam suggests that Mr. Maloney might also like some cheesecake.

Hurrying home, Mary reflects that her behavior must appear as natural as possible. She convinces herself that it is an ordinary evening and she is about to cook her husband’s supper. Going inside, Mary is genuinely shocked at the sight of Mr. Maloney’s dead body and bursts into tears. She calls the police station where her husband worked to report that Patrick Maloney is dead.

When two policemen arrive at the scene, Mary is still crying. She recognizes the men as her husband’s colleagues, Sergeant Jack Noonan and O’Malley. Collapsing into Noonan’s arms, Mary tearfully explains that she discovered her husband’s body after going to the grocery store for vegetables. More men arrive at the crime scene, including a doctor, two detectives, and a photographer. All of them are kind to Mary. One of the detectives visits the grocery store to check Mary’s alibi. He returns, satisfied with Sam’s claim that Mary behaved normally.

Mr. Maloney’s body is taken away, leaving Mary with the two detectives and policemen. Sergeant Noonan asks if she wants to stay with a female relative, but Mary declines. She stays in the house as the police search for the murder weapon. The police officers tell her that they are looking for a heavy instrument, most likely made of metal. Mary suggests they search the garage.

By nine o’clock, the police have failed to find anything significant. Mary asks Sergeant Noonan to pour her a whiskey and suggests he has one too. Noonan admits that he is not supposed to drink alcohol while working but nevertheless acquiesces. The other police officers come in from outside and also accept Mary’s offer of alcohol.

When Noonan notices that the oven is still on, Mary asks if Jack and the other three policemen will do her “a small favour” (33). She insists that, as they are trying to catch Mr. Maloney’s killer, her husband would have wanted them to eat the lamb, which is now perfectly cooked. The policemen are persuaded, and Mary listens to them eat while she remains in the living room. Discussing the murder weapon, the men speculate that the man who killed Patrick Maloney must have used a weapon like “a sledgehammer” (33). The policemen agree that the murder weapon is most likely “right under [their] very noses” (34). In the living room, Mary laughs to herself.

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Lamb To The Slaughter Essay

Senjuti Gupta

Lamb to the Slaughter

‘Lamb to the Slaughter’ is about a wife, Mary Maloney, who loves her husband very dearly, at first, then ultimately kills him, due to him leaving her for an unknown reasons.

The title “Lamb to the Slaughter” is effective as it is a familiar saying.  The literal meaning is to kill the innocent; or that the victim is led to death.  The figurative meaning is that someone may be killed; or someone is going to kill another. This creates tension, as the reader prepares for something awful to happen, and also later in the story, we find out that the ‘leg of lamb’ is the murder weapon used to kill, and that the writer is referring one of the characters as an innocent ‘lamb’.

In the beginning part of the story, the writer mostly concentrates on the wife, Mary Maloney.  “Two table lamps alight – hers and the one by the empty chair opposite.  Behind her, two tall glasses, soda water, whisky.  Fresh ice cubes in the thermos bucket.  Mary was waiting for her husband.”  The first impression we get of Mary is that she loves her husband dearly, as the house is clean and neat, and that she has made the extra effort to make him feel comfortable when he gets home, by getting everything prepared therefore he can relax.

The writer has written the setting like a pleasant, warm house, for us to get the impression that Mary is a loving wife, and also, the writer has done this to make the readers be biased to like her, therefore part with her when the husband leaves.

In the next paragraph, the writer continues the wife’s devotion for her husband - “She would glance up at the clock, but without anxiety, merely to please herself with the thought that each minute gone by made it nearer the time when he would come.”  This conveys that the wife loves her husband greatly, and is excited when he comes home.

The writer now concentrates on Mary’s appearance.  “Her skin – for this was her sixth month with child – had acquired a wonderful translucent quality, and the eyes, with their new placid look, seemed larger, darker than before”.  This reveals that Mary is pregnant, conveying that the wife and husband must love each other very much and also establishes that she is faithful to him.  By describing Mary’s face, my impressions are that she is a loving wife and by mentioning the eyes, it links to an innocent lamb, as her eyes are big and tranquil.

In the next paragraph, “When the clock said ten minutes to five, she began to listen, punctually as always, she heard the tyres on the gravel outside, the footsteps passing the window, the key turning in the lock.”  This conveys that the wife’s devotion is out of proportion as she comes close to obsession.  It possibly conveys that she longs to see her husband.  It seems that her senses are geared whenever the husband comes home.

It is important to convince us that Mary Maloney is devoted and unsuspecting at first, as this will make it easier to sympathise and side with her rather than the husband; as the husband decides to leave her.

The story now continues with speech between Mary and her husband.  “‘Hullo darling’ she said.  ‘Hullo,’ he answered.”  This conveys that the wife is being affectionate towards her husband as she uses the word ‘darling’.  However, the husband doesn’t return the affection back, as there is no endearment from him.

The first impression of Mr. Maloney is that he is a hard, serious man, with no affection towards his wife.  This conveys that there is a contrast between Mr and Mrs Maloney.  Mrs Maloney is openhearted, loving and conversational, whereas Mr Maloney is held-back and uneasy.

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The writer emphasises Mary’s contentment by saying that “She loved to luxuriate in the presence of this man, and to feel that warm male glow that came out of him to her when they were alone together.”  This conveys a clear statement of how much she loved her husband.  Mary pays a lot of attention to what the husband does – e.g. “she loved him for the way he sat loosely in his chair, or moved slowly across the room with long strides.”  This conveys that she loves him very much, as she concentrates on him all the time, noticing what he does.

Now, tension starts to mount, as they both drink in silence, however, Mary tries to start a conversation, but miserably fails.  “‘Tired, darling?’ ‘Yes, I’m tired.”  This conveys that something may be wrong; as Mr Maloney speaks in monosyllabic words throughout the paragraph; e.g. ‘Yes’, ‘No’, ‘Sit down’.  Also again, there is no endearment from Mr Maloney, conveying now that he definitely doesn’t show any affection towards his wife.

The writer focuses on drink (alcohol) several times throughout the story.  He does this to create tension, as some people depend on alcohol when they are avoiding, panicking or even feeling uncomfortable about something.  This causes tension as Mr Maloney “lifted his glass and drained it in one swallow.  He got up and went slowly to get another” this possibly conveys that Mr Maloney is also feeling uncomfortable, as he tries to finish it as soon as possible.  This time he wants another drink, but stronger; this may be sending signals that something is wrong.

The last parts of page 15, is where anxiety increases, as Mary digresses on, as she feels uncomfortable by the silence because he doesn’t respond.  Mary obsesses about him and keeps going on – “if you’re too tired to eat out, its not too late.  There’s plenty of meat and stuff in the freezer, and you can have it right here, and not even move” Mary tries her very best to get him to feel comfortable and open-up, but still, there is no response from him.  This conveys that Mr Maloney may feel suffocated by Mary, as she doesn’t let him do anything, and that she is always with him, all the time.

On page 16, “I’ll get you some cheese and crackers first.  ‘I don’t want it,’ he said.”  Mary still insists on making Mr Maloney something.  “She moved uneasily in her chair, the large eyes still watching his face.”  This may suggest that Mary may be getting emotionally prepared for something awful.  The writer has cleverly gone back to Mary’s large eyes, as this reminds us of the innocence – the lamb.

Mary keep things moving by making Mr Maloney eat something.  “But, darling, you must  eat! I’ll fix it anyway, and then you can have it or not, as you like.”  This conveys that Mary may be insisting to avoid what Mr Maloney is about to say.  “‘Sit down,’ he said. ‘Just for a minute, sit down.”  This builds suspense, as Mary and the readers are about to find something out.

As we come closer and closer to find out what has happened, the writer obtains detail from Mr Maloney’s expression to build more tension. “He had become absolutely motionless, the lamp beside him fell across the upper part of his face, leaving the chin and mouth in shadow.”  This creates the minute detail to create the further emphasis on tension; and the short, sharp sentences are used to build up the distress and anxiety.

In the next paragraph, the secret is let out.  “And he told her… So there it is” It is very clever for the writer to withhold the reason why Mr Maloney is leaving Mary, as this increases tension, because it gives us the reason to speculate; and guess why he is leaving her.

Mr Maloney doesn’t care for Mary, as he says, “Of course I’ll give you money and see that you’re looked after. But there needn’t really be any fuss. I hope not anyway.  It wouldn’t be very good for my job.”  This gives us very negative impressions about Mr Maloney, that he is a cold-hearted, self-centred man; and everything we have been told about Mr Maloney, has made us biased against him to dislike him.

In the following page, the writer involves us into Mary’s mind, and what she is going through at these points.  In the next paragraph, “She herself had imagined the whole thing…” Mary has a typical and realistic reaction to shock, as she tries to reject it all and pretend that nothing ever happened.  Mary has a physical reaction to the shock, as she “couldn’t feel her feet touching the floor.  She couldn’t feel anything at all – except a slight nausea and a desire to vomit.”  The writer establishes that Mary is on ‘automatic-pilot’, as she seems to be carrying on as normal, as if she was programmed.  This builds tension, as we don’t know what Mary is going to do next.

In the next sentence, the writer increases anticipation by keeping Mary in ‘automatic pilot’, as she heads “to the cellar, then to the deep freeze and the hand inside the cabinet taking hold of the first object it met.

A leg of lamb.” The writer has put ‘a leg of lamb’ by itself to make obvious that it is the murder weapon.  Also, it creates irony, as the ‘lamb’ relates to everything in this story – Mary, as she is left by the cruel husband, or maybe the husband could be the lamb, as he could have felt suffocated by the wife.

In the next paragraph, Mary “carried it upstairs, holding the thin bone-end of it with both hands and as she went through the living room, she saw him standing over by the window with his back turned to her, and she stopped.”  The writer maintains the suspense by describing the ‘leg of lamb’ as a hard bat or club, as she carries it in a way o protect herself – ‘thin-end with both hands’.  The writer foreshadows that the murder is going to take place, as he has already described the ‘leg of lamb’ as a club that can kill anybody.

In the next sentence, Mr Maloney says “‘For god’s sake,’ he said, hearing her, but not turning around, ‘don’t make supper for me. I’m going out.”  This conveys that Mr Maloney doesn’t even care that he has left her, and is very disrespectful, as he doesn’t even turn around.  The writer sustains the tension, as we don’t know whether Mary is going to hit him or not.

At that moment, Mary commits the murder “Mary Maloney simply walked up and without any pause, swung the big frozen leg of lamb high in the air and brought it down as hard as she could on the back of his head.”  The writer still maintain tension throughout; as we don’t know what Mary is going to do now with the body – if she is going to call the police, prepare a plan, or get arrested? However, the writer still keeps us sympathising with Mary, as Mr Maloney had left her, and also Mary had committed a crime of passion, therefore she didn’t plan it.

In the sentence “She might just as well have hit him with a steel club.”  This suggests how lethal a leg of lamb can be, and that she virtually just killed him.

After this, Mary begins to think very fast.  “As the wife of a detective, she knew quite well what the penalty would be. That was fine. Made no difference to her. On the other hand, what about the child? What were the laws about murderers with unborn children…”? This creates tension, as Mary is jumping to conclusions and getting anxious, but nevertheless, we still empathise with her, as she doesn’t care what happens to her – she is only worrying about how to protect her unborn baby and “she wasn’t prepared to take a chance” therefore, she had to get away with the murder.  This creates increasing tension, as we find out whether she gets away with it or not.

To get rid of the murder weapon, Mary “carried the meat into the kitchen, placed it into a pan, turned the oven on high, and shoved it inside.  She washed her hands and ran upstairs” This establishes tension now, as Mary got rid of the murder weapon, therefore there is no proof or evidence to show that Mary is the killer.

On page 18, Mary has an internal dialogue, as she tries to figure out what to do.  She intends going out to buy some ‘potatoes’ and ‘peas’.  The writer builds tension in the mirror scene, as Mary practices how to communicate to anyone, without them suspecting anything.  “Hullo Sam…I want some potatoes please, Sam and a can of peas.”  This shows that Mary isn’t nervous, and wants to show Sam that everything is normal at home.  This builds tension, as we don’t know if Sam can suspect anything.  There is also irony, as we have figured out that Mary won’t be buying cheesecake or two potatoes anymore, now that her husband is dead.  Once we are aware of this, we sympathise with Mary, as her life has totally changed in one night.

Throughout the next paragraph, the writer uses emotive language to get across the idea that Mary genuinely feels sorry that she killed her husband, and that she loved him.  The writer uses words like ‘frantic’, ‘tragic’, shock’, 'terrible’, ‘grief’, ‘horror’ to convey the emotions that describe how Mary is feeling when she sees her husband’s dead body.

Mary has now phoned the police up and told them about what she has found.  The writer builds tension again, by making us feel anxious that Mart won’t be able to get away with it, as now the police, detectives and forensic pathologists are involved.  

As all the people gather into the house, more tension and suspense is built; as there is a less chance of getting away with the murder.  The writer uses verbs like ‘hurried’, and ‘quickly’ to link to a sense of emergency, and again, the people are withholding information from her, as they ‘whisper’ and ‘mutter’.  This also creates anxiety, as we don’t know what they are talking about – if they think that Mary is the murderer or not.

The people started to look for the murder weapon, and said, “It was almost like a large piece of metal.” Ironically, the weapon was cooking in the oven, out of the police’s reach.

We are reminded of Mr Maloney halfway down of page 21, as Mary says, “she could hear their footsteps on the gravel outside.”  The writer makes us feel sorry for Mary, as she will never have to do that again, as her husband is dead.

The last two pages, is when the murder weapon is finally disposed of.  “You must be terribly hungry by now because it’s long past your super time…why don’t you eat up that lamb that’s in the oven? It’ll be cooked just right by now.”    The writer creates a lot of dramatic irony here, as the policemen and the others eat the lamb without suspecting anything.  “Their voices were all think and sloppy full of meat.” This is not a very attractive scene of someone eating, and reminds us of animal eating, as they ‘belch’, etc.

The policemen and others start to discuss the weapon.  “That’s the hell of a big club the guy must’ve used to hit poor Patrick… that’s why it ought to be easy to find.”  This is very ironic as they are discussing the murder weapon while eating it.  The writer builds tension, as the reader feels excited that Mary is going to get away with the murder.

Right at the end of the story, comes a twist. “‘Probably right under our very noses.’ And in the other room, Mary Maloney began to giggle.”  This is very surprising, as Mary had given an inappropriate reaction.  This may be due to that she is giggling with relief that she had got away with it, but personally, I think she is giggling because she has gone mad with the emotions, as she is happy as he is not there to treat her badly, but she is also sad because she loved him very much, and that their baby is going to grow up without a father.

Document Details

• Word Count 2790
• Page Count 6
• Subject English

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Essay Samples on Lamb to The Slaughter

“Lamb to The Slaughter” opens with Mary Maloney, a devoted housewife eagerly awaiting her husband’s return from work. However, her idyllic domestic life is shattered when her husband delivers devastating news that sends shockwaves through her world. In a moment of sheer desperation, Mary’s emotions spiral out of control, leading her to commit an impulsive and unthinkable crime. What follows is a brilliantly crafted tale of suspense, deceit, and the lengths one can go to protect themselves.

How to Write “Lamb to The Slaughter” Essay

To write an impactful “Lamb to The Slaughter” essay, we recommend starting with a compelling introduction that sets the stage for the story’s central themes. Dive into the dynamics of the characters, exploring their motivations and the web of deception that unfolds. Discuss the elements of irony and dark humor that Dahl expertly weaves into the narrative, enhancing its overall impact.

In your essay’s body paragraphs, you can explore various “Lamb to The Slaughter” essay topics such as:

• the theme of betrayal within relationships
• the societal expectations of women in the 1950s
• the power dynamics between individuals
• the narrative techniques employed by Dahl, including suspenseful pacing, vivid descriptions, and skillful dialogue, to create a tension-filled reading experience.

For the conclusion, reflect on the lasting impact of “Lamb to The Slaughter” and its ability to engage readers across generations. Consider the timeless themes of betrayal, guilt, and the consequences of impulsive actions. Highlight the story’s relevance in prompting discussions about human nature, the complexity of morality, and the blurred lines between victim and perpetrator.

Lamb to the Slaughter: Dissecting Literary Devices Used in the Story

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"Lamb to the Slaughter": Comparison of the Story and the Movie

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The Character of Mary Maloney In “Lamb to the Slaughter”

Mary Maloney is the protagonist of Roald Dahl’s short story, “Lamb to the Slaughter”. She is introduced as a typical middle class housewife who is six months pregnant and is devoted to her husband, Patrick Maloney. She is described as beautiful woman, with soft skin...

Best topics on Lamb to The Slaughter

1. Lamb to the Slaughter: Dissecting Literary Devices Used in the Story

2. Analysis of the Elements of Fiction in the Novels The Mark of Cain, Lamb to The Slaughter and The Tell-Tale Heart

3. Antagonist And Protagonist In “Lamb to the Slaughter”

4. “Lamb to the Slaughter”: Comparison of the Story and the Movie

5. My Adaptation to ‘Lamb to the Slaughter’ by Roald Dahl

6. The Character of Mary Maloney In “Lamb to the Slaughter”

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