The punishment Miss Strangeworth receives in the story "The Possibility of Evil" by Shirley Jackson is open to interpretation. Some may see it as appropriate because it serves as a form of poetic justice for her malicious actions. Others may argue that her punishment is extreme considering the potential harm it caused her. Ultimately, readers must decide for themselves based on their own moral compass.
She was 71 years old.
over a hundred years
The Climax of the story is when the boy picks up the letter made by Ms. Strangeworth and decides to deliver it himself, finding out about the true evils of Ms. Strangeworth and ruining her reputation, along with her garden. This is the climax because Ms. Strangeworth sent these letters in secrecy, knowing that they could ruin her good reputation, which is shown throughout the story. The destruction of the garden symbolizes the destruction of Ms. Strangeworth's reputation and pride.
Judgemental, or pessimistic.
Miss Strangeworth is a static character because she does not undergo any significant changes or growth throughout the story. She remains steadfast in her belief that it is her duty to protect her town from what she views as immorality. Despite the events that unfold, such as her letter being found and exposed to the townspeople, Miss Strangeworth's mindset and actions remain consistent.
Miss Strangeworth is a crazy old lady who thinks that she is almost god-like. She may believe that what she is doing helps the people and lets them know what they are doing wrong with their lives. She has no actual reason for why she does what she does though.
Miss Strangeworth believes that human nature is inherently flawed and capable of great evil. She sees people as deceitful, hypocritical, and prone to causing harm to others. This belief influences her actions and motives in the story.
Miss Strangeworth is a static character in "The Possibility of Evil" as she remains largely unchanged throughout the story. She maintains her self-righteous attitude and malicious behavior without experiencing significant personal growth or change.
In the story "The Possibility of Evil" by Shirley Jackson, hints at Miss Strangeworth's secret include her obsession with writing anonymous letters, her particular interest in the moral conduct and private lives of her neighbors, and her extreme focus on maintaining the town's appearance of harmony and purity. These details foreshadow the revelation that Miss Strangeworth is the one spreading malicious gossip through her letters.
Miss Strangeworth uses anonymous letters to subtly warn people about the possibility of evil in the town by dropping hints and insinuations in her correspondence. She believes that by sending these letters, she is fulfilling her duty to protect her community from potential harm.
Miss Strangeworth deceives the townspeople by secretly sending them poison pen letters disguised as friendly and helpful notes. This creates suspicion and unease among the townspeople, leading them to doubt each other and question their relationships with one another.