46 pages • 1 hour read
W.W. JacobsThe Monkey's Paw
Fiction | Short Story | Adult | Published in 1902A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.
Essay Topics
What stylistic and descriptive elements help create the atmosphere of horror in the story?
Describe the differences in how each of the Whites responds to the possibilities of the monkey’s paw. How would you respond?
How do the outside world and modernization pose threats to the Whites?
There is consistent ambiguity in the story about what is a coincidence and what is supernatural. Which interpretation is more convincing, and why? Provide examples that support your stance.
What are the family dynamics in the White household? How is the marriage impacted by everything that happens in the story?
If the story is about fate, does it imply that one should accept one’s fate or try to change it? Do you think Herbert’s fate was sealed at the factory regardless of the monkey’s paw?
In what ways is this story about acceptance of good and bad experiences?
How do the two minor characters—Sergeant-Major Morris and the visitor from Maw and Meggins—generate action in the story?
In what ways is Herbert White the most tragic character in this story?
How do you think Mrs. White will feel about Mr. White using the final wish to contradict her wish for Herbert to return?
