“The Monkey’s Paw” – W. W. Jacobs

Summary

The Monkey’s Paw is a chilling story about a magical object that grants three wishes but with a terrible price. When the White family wishes for money, their son dies, and they receive the exact amount they wished for. A second wish brings fear and suspense, and the final wish restores peace—but at a great emotional cost.

 

Character

-       Mr. White: A curious man who makes the wishes.

-       Mrs. White: His wife, who becomes desperate after their son dies.

-       Herbert White: Their son, who dies as a result of the first wish.

-       Sergeant-Major Morris: A family friend who brings the monkey’s paw and warns them about its powers.

 

Plot Elements

Exposition - The story begins with the White family at home on a stormy night. Sergeant-Major Morris visits and tells them about a magical monkey’s paw that grants three wishes – but always with tragic consequences.

Rising action - Despite the warning, Mr. White wishes for 200 pounds (£). The next day, Herbert dies in an accident, and the family receives 200 pounds in compensation. Grief-stricken, Mrs. White convinces Mr. White to make a second wish—for Herbert to come back to life.

 

Climax - Late at night, there is a loud knocking at the door. Mrs. White believes it is Herbert returned from the dead and tries to open the door.

 

Resolution - Before she can open it, Mr. White uses the third wish to undo the second. When she opens the door, no one is there.

 

Analysis & Feelings

This story gave me chills. It’s a powerful warning about being careful what you wish for. I felt sad for the parents, especially Mrs. White, who just wanted her son back. The suspense really builds, especially when the knocking starts. I liked how the story leaves you guessing about what was really at the door. It’s short but packs a lot of emotion and tension into just a few pages.