Symbols in "Lamb to the Slaughter"
Roald Dahl's short story "Lamb to the Slaughter" is rich with symbolism, adding depth and layers of meaning to this seemingly simple tale of murder. Let's dive into the key symbols and explore how they contribute to the story's themes and character development.
The Lamb
The most prominent symbol in the story is, of course, the lamb. This symbol works on multiple levels:
- Literal level: It's the murder weapon Mary uses to kill her husband.
- Biblical allusion: The lamb evokes the image of innocence and sacrifice in Christian tradition.
- Mary's character: It represents Mary's transformation from a docile, submissive wife to a cunning murderer.
The phrase "lamb to the slaughter" typically refers to someone who goes innocently and uncomplainingly into a dangerous or difficult situation. In this story, the symbolism is subverted as Mary uses the lamb to slaughter her husband instead.
"All right," he said. "I'll get it." Then he walked over to the cupboard and took out a bottle of whisky. She watched him as he poured himself a drink.
This scene, where Patrick gets himself a drink, contrasts sharply with the earlier description of Mary lovingly preparing his drinks. The lamb, which Mary will soon use as a weapon, symbolizes the death of their marriage and Mary's innocence.
The Freezer
The freezer plays a crucial symbolic role in the story:
- Concealment: It hides the murder weapon in plain sight.
- Preservation: Just as it preserves food, it preserves Mary's secret and her freedom.
- Domestic facade: It represents the outward appearance of a normal, functioning household that Mary maintains.
When the police officers end up eating the leg of lamb, the freezer becomes a symbol of how Mary has managed to dispose of the evidence right under their noses:
"Personally, I think it's right here on the premises." "Probably right under our very noses. What you think, Jack?"
