“The Monkey’s Paw”
Many people say they aren’t superstitious, but those
same people might own a lucky charm or get nervous
on Friday the 13th. Usually these superstitions are
harmless, but sometimes they can interfere with a
person’s life.
In a small group, brainstorm a list of common
superstitions. Then discuss which you think are
harmless and which might cause problems or
interfere with someone’s life. Be prepared to share.
What kinds of events do you or people you know
interpret as “signs”? What do people do for good luck
– or to avoid bad luck?
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Talisman/Amulet
Amulet – a charm or object that is said to
protect the person who holds it and bring
good luck.
Talisman – similar to an amulet but said to
bring more than good luck. It may have
magical powers and may grant its holder the
power to make a wish come true.
Talismans/amulets include such objects as
gems, stones, coins, pendants, statues,
plants and/or animals.
Background
In your group, list visual descriptions or
sound effects that help create an element
of mystery and suspense in the short
story’s opening.
 Make a list of adjectives to describe the
setting.
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In your group, analyze the following
question. Be prepared to share.
Re-read lines 1-18. Note words and
phrases that describe the setting. What
feelings do these suggest? What kind of
mood is created?
 List your ideas.
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In your group, analyze the following
question. Be prepared to share.
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Reread lines 62-75. Discuss whether you
think the Sergeant Major is being
superstitious about the monkey’s paw?
Why or why not?
In your group, analyze the following
question. Be prepared to share.
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Reread lines 130-142. Note the imagery
in these lines. To what sense does it
appeal? Explain how it contributes to the
mood.
In your group, analyze the following
question. Be prepared to share.
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What example of foreshadowing is given
in line 162 by Herbert?
In your group, analyze the following
question. Be prepared to share.
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What happens that convinces Mr. White
something is real about the monkey’s
paw?
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Cite the evidence from the text.
In your group, analyze the following
question. Be prepared to share.
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Who is the unanticipated visitor who
comes next? What news does he bring?
In your group, analyze the following
question. Be prepared to share.
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Why does Mr. White say that the sound is
a rat passing him on the stairs?
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Why do you think Mr. White is afraid of
what might be on the other side of the
door?
In your group, analyze the following
question. Be prepared to share.
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Suppose Mr. White did not make that last
wish. What would have happened when
Mrs. White opened the door? Write an
alternate ending.
In your group, analyze the following
question. Be prepared to share.