The Monkey's Paw Review Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is the theme of 'The Monkey's Paw'?

Be thankful for what you have and try not to think selfishly.

Name three parts of the rising action.

Herbert dies, the White family receives 200 pounds, the second wish (wished Herbert back from the dead).

What is the climax of the story?

When Mrs. White opens the door and Mr. White makes the last wish.

What does the company representative come to tell the Whites?

That their son has been crushed by a machine and killed. Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the individual that brought the monkey's paw to the family?

Sergeant Major Morris Signup and view all the answers

What symbol was used to express Mr. White's approach at life?

Chess game. Signup and view all the answers

What image does Herbert see in the fire the night of the first wish?

He sees the image of a monkey's face. Signup and view all the answers

What country do we learn the monkey's paw comes from?

India Signup and view all the answers

What point of view is the story told in?

Third person point of view. Signup and view all the answers

What was the resolution of the story?

The knowledge that the son was not there. Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the author of 'The Monkey's Paw'?

W.W. Jacobs Signup and view all the answers

What foreshadowed Herbert's death?

Cynical behavior by Herbert and Sergeant Major Morris' warning. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Theme

Central theme emphasizes gratitude and the dangers of selfish desires.

Rising Action

Herbert's death serves as a pivotal moment, setting the family's tragic circumstances in motion.
The White family unexpectedly receives £200, further complicating their wishes.
The second wish involves attempting to resurrect Herbert, signaling a turning point in their fate.

Climax

The climax occurs when Mrs. White opens the door, leading to tension as Mr. White makes the final wish.

Company Representative's Role

The representative informs the Whites of Herbert's tragic death by machinery, underscoring the story's dark tone.

Key Character

Sergeant Major Morris is the character who introduces the monkey's paw to the White family, initiating the series of events that follow.

Mr. White's Life Symbolism

Mr. White's approach to life is symbolized by chess, illustrating his reckless decision-making and lack of foresight.

Herbert's Vision

That night, Herbert sees a monkey's face in the fire, linking to the paw's origins and foreshadowing his fate.

Origin of the Monkey's Paw

The monkey's paw originates from India, adding an exotic and mystical element to the story's context.

Narrative Perspective

The story is narrated from a third-person perspective, allowing insight into the thoughts and feelings of multiple characters.

Resolution

The resolution reveals a somber acceptance: the son is gone, implying that some desires should remain ungranted.

Author

The story is authored by W.W. Jacobs, known for his mastery of gothic and macabre themes.

Foreshadowing Herbert's Death

Herbert's cynical remarks hint at his fate, especially his dismissive comment about the money prior to his death.
Morris's warnings about the paw, advising against wishing carelessly, provide crucial foreshadowing of the impending tragedy.

Description

Test your knowledge of 'The Monkey's Paw' through these review flashcards. This quiz covers key themes, rising action elements, and the climax of the story. Perfect for students looking to cement their understanding of this classic tale.