Question

What is the theme of ""The Monkey's Paw."" Write a Low TIDE and be sure to use evidence from the text to support your answer.

Answer 1

The theme of 'The Monkey's Paw' is the danger of interfering with fate and the unforeseen consequences of selfish wishes. Other stories with similar themes include 'Frankenstein' and 'The Tell-Tale Heart'. To analyze the theme, use textual evidence and literary devices to develop and support the essay's thesis.

Step-by-step explanation:

The theme of The Monkey's Paw centers on the dangers of interfering with fate and the unforeseen consequences of selfish desires, a common motif in literature. The story highlights the perils that follow when the White family uses the mystical paw to make wishes without considering potential outcomes.

To examine the theme more deeply, we could consider the conflict that arises as the White family grapples with tragedy following their attempts to alter their fate through wishes. The paw grants them three wishes, but at a great and unexpected cost—emphasizing the adage 'be careful what you wish for.'

In line with the task of analyzing literary texts and their themes, other stories that explore similar themes include Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, which delves into the consequences of man playing God, and Edgar Allan Poe's The Tell-Tale Heart, exploring the internal conflict and guilt experienced by the protagonist.

When writing an essay, it's critical to gather textual evidence to support the interpretation of the theme. Literary devices such as foreshadowing, irony, and mood contribute to the development of the story's message. An informal outline would assist in planning your essay, ensuring that each piece of evidence logically supports your thesis.

Answer 2

The theme of "The Monkey's Paw" by W.W. Jacobs revolves around the unpredictability of fate and the hazardous effects of trying to alter it, highlighted by the White family's tragic experiences after making their wishes.

Step-by-step explanation:

One central theme in W.W. Jacobs's short story "The Monkey's Paw" is the unpredictable nature of fate and the dangerous consequences of interfering with it. The monkey's paw grants three wishes, but also brings unforeseen consequences, illustrating the adage “be careful what you wish for.” The White family's initial disbelief turns to horror as their wishes lead to tragic outcomes. This theme is supported by the text as the wishes do not bring true happiness or resolve; instead, they lead to loss and despair, exemplifying that one cannot control fate with impunity.

The theme is reinforced through the story's conflict and its resolution. As the Whites realize the repercussions of their actions, they face a moral and personal struggle. The somber mood and events caution against the hubris of overstepping one’s mortal bounds. Such a concept invites readers to reflect on the importance of accepting life's natural course and the potential perils of attempting to alter it. Literary devices like foreshadowing, irony, and tension are expertly woven into the narrative to underscore the theme that human beings are not meant to tamper with fate.