In Shirley Jackson's short story "The Lottery," the character of Old Man Warner is a fascinating study in tradition, superstition, and the fear of change. Old Man Warner serves as a symbol of the deep-rooted beliefs and customs that govern the town's annual lottery. Through his words and actions, he embodies resistance to progress and the preservation of outdated rituals that ultimately lead to tragedy. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay The elder Warner is portrayed as a staunch defender of the lottery, which he sees as an essential part of community identity and cohesion. He rejects any suggestion that the lottery is useless or barbaric, insisting that it has always been done and must continue to be done. His adherence to tradition is so strong that he becomes angry and defensive when others question the purpose or morality of the lottery. This reveals a deep fear of change and a reluctance to question the established order, even when it may be harmful or unjust. His unyielding stance towards the lottery demonstrates a refusal to adapt to changing social norms, highlighting his stubbornness and aversion to anything outside his established beliefs. Despite his advanced age, Old Man Warner is portrayed as witty and alert, with a keen understanding of human nature. He is quick to criticize younger generations for their perceived lack of respect and gratitude, believing they do not appreciate the sacrifices of the past. This suggests a sense of entitlement and superiority on his part, as he sees himself as the custodian of tradition and the guardian of the community's values. His refusal to acknowledge the flaws and consequences of the lottery reflects a narrow-mindedness and stubbornness that ultimately contributes to its perpetuation. The character of Old Man Warner displays a lack of empathy and understanding for younger generations, further highlighting his inability to see beyond his own perspective. The character of Old Man Warner is also characterized by a strong sense of superstition and fear. He believes that the lottery is necessary to ensure a good harvest and ward off evil spirits, despite the lack of evidence or logic to support this belief. His reliance on tradition and ritual as a means of control and protection reveals a deeply rooted insecurity and vulnerability, as he clings to these practices in the face of uncertainty and change. This fear of the unknown drives him to defend the lottery at all costs, even when it results in tragedy and loss. Old Man Warner's superstition highlights his inability to think critically and rationally, which ultimately leads to the perpetuation of a harmful tradition. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay In conclusion, Old Man Warner is a complex and compelling character whose beliefs and actions reveal the dark side of tradition and superstition. Through his unwavering support of the lottery and his resistance to change, he embodies the dangers of blindly following established ways without question or reflection. His character serves as a cautionary tale about the power of fear and tradition to shape our beliefs and behaviors, and the importance of challenging these entrenched patterns in order to create a more just and equitable society. Old Man Warner reflects the dangers of remaining rooted in outdated customs and beliefs, and his character is a reminder of the importance of..