Lamb to the Slaughter Themes

Mr. Maloney tells Mary he hopes she will not fuss about his decision.  How does he justify this demand?

• “I’ll give you money and see you’re looked after.”

• “It wouldn’t be very good for my job.”

• “I’ve thought about it a good deal.”

• “…there simply wasn’t any other way.”

What is Mrs. Maloney’s reaction as her husband gives his “news” to her?

• She goes from anger to horror.

• She goes from horror to disbelief.

• She goes from bliss to fury.

• She becomes violent immediately.

Which statement describes Mary's motivation for covering up her crime?

• She wants to protect her unborn child because she thinks Patrick is abandoning them (her + child).

• She thinks she did nothing wrong and does not deserved to be abandoned.

• She is afraid of life in prison if she should lash out in a rage.

• She does not think the police will believe she killed in self-defense.

Which of the following shows situational irony?

• The police officer goes to the grocer's.

• Calm, loving Mary violently kills her husband.

• Patrick is a police officer.

• The doctor says that Patrick's skull was smashed.

What is theme?

• The author's moral or message

• The character's personality

• A repeated symbol

• The most exciting part of a story

Which statement identifies the overall theme of the text?

• There are some betrayals that cannot be forgiven.

• It is important to admit your guilt when you do something wrong.

• Always keep a calm and clear head during times of stress.

• People can act unpredictably when they are betrayed by someone they love.

Which theme topics could be explored with this story?

• Love and Passion

• Betrayal

• Animal Cruelty

• Perceptions of Power

• Justice and Injustice

What is the primary theme of 'Lamb to the Slaughter'?

• Betrayal and deception

• Love and forgiveness

• Courage and bravery

• Friendship and loyalty

Which theme is highlighted by Mary's reaction to her husband's news?

• Justice and revenge

• Betrayal and emotional turmoil

• Love and sacrifice

• Fear and anxiety

How does the theme of betrayal manifest in 'Lamb to the Slaughter'?

• Mary's love for Patrick

• Patrick's decision to leave Mary

• The police investigation

• Mary's cooking skills