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File in Literature

The Monkeys Paw

discussion questions

1. Describe the setting of the story? Who are the characters in the house?

2. Based on the imagery in the story, what do you think the mood is? What is the difference between
what is going on inside of the house compared to outside of the house?

3. Where was Sergeant-Major Morris before visiting the White family?

4. Why did the fakir put a spell on the monkeys paw?

5. Why does Morris say it would be better to let the paw burn?

6. What do you think Morris wished for?

7. What do we learn about the White family based on the wish for 200 pounds?

8. What did you think when Mr. White saw a monkeys face in the fire? Why do you think the author
wrote that scene?

9. Before Herbert leaves for work foreshadowing is used. Find the passage that foreshadows what
happens next, what clues are given?

10. How did Mr. and Mrs. White react when they learned they would receive 200 pounds after their
sons death?

11. What does Mrs. White ask Mr. White to use as his second wish?

12. What is Mr. Whites final wish? Why?

13. What do you think happens to the Whites after the story ends?