Stewart’s Death
The circumstances and details of Stewart’s death remained unknown even to Tilly herself until Teddy helps her remember. The townsfolk blamed her for his death as she was the only one present at the time. However, the actual truth of the matter is that Stewart was bullying, intimidating, and abusing Tilly for being an illegitimate child. The irony of the situation is that Stewart breaks his neck while charging towards Tilly in order to injure her. He is the abuser yet he ends up being the victim after Tilly moves aside from his physical attack.
Tilly as the Scapegoat
The townspeople are portrayed as pretentious individuals with dark secrets and apathetic attitudes. In contrast, Tilly is kindhearted and benevolent even though she is always the target of the town’s scrutiny. Though her presence in those tragedies incriminates her the town barely gives her the benefit of doubt. Taking into account the behavior and misdemeanors of the rest of the populace Tilly is the least likely person to commit a crime.
Ted’s Death
Ted’s death is the second death that finds Tilly in the same vicinity as the victim. Consequently, his death is also ironic because of the conversation they hold just before he drowns in wheat. Teddy wants to take Tilly’s word that she is not cursed and to jump in the silo without harming himself. He also believes he will perform the trick unscathed, as he is confident of the silo’s integrity. Ironically, he dies the horrific death discrediting his assumptions that were to guarantee his safety.
Farrat’s Cross-Dressing
The town’s policeman Sergeant Farrat is the epitome of virility in terms of his vocation and status in the community. However, he holds a secret akin to most townsfolk that is contrary to the image he portrays in public. He cross-dresses and loves couture which contradicts the persona that the town expects from him. Furthermore, unlike any other resident, he shares the same interest as Tilly since he has an eye for fashion and good taste.
Shakespeare's Macbeth
Towards the climax of the novel the story gradually imitates a Shakespearean tragedy. The townsfolk are the tragic characters whose fate is imminent for their fatal flaws punish them. Ironically, the town is preparing for a staged version of the Shakespearean play Macbeth that they participate in. While the town is enjoying and contributing to the performance, Tilly exerts her vengeance by setting the town on fire. The townsfolk recreate a tragedy while their actual reality reaches its tragic climax.
