The Monkeys Paw Themes

Which event marks the climax of the story?

• Mr. White wishes for 200 pounds.

• Herbert dies in an accident.

• There is loud knocking at the door; Mr. White makes his last wish.

• Mrs. White demands that her husband wish for their son to return.

At the end of the story, what motivates Mr. White to wish his dead son away?

• His love for his wife and anger at Sgt. Morris.

• His belief in the paw and his fear of its power.

• His anger at his wife and disbelief in the paw.

• His greed and desire to see his son again.

The reader can tell that Morris thinks the monkey’s paw is dangerous because he--

• taps his drinking glass against his teeth.

• explains that he got his three wishes.

• says that it is “dried to a mummy.”

• throws the paw onto the fire.

Which of the following is NOT ironic about the Whites’ situation?

• They use the paw to make their lives better, but only misery comes.

• Herbert wanted to wish for money, and only in his death is it received.

• The Whites joke about the power of the paw, but ultimately it brings them unhappiness.

• Mr. Morris warned them about the powers of the paw.  

The author best creates suspense with which of the following sentences?

• “It looks like just an ordinary little paw all dried up.”

• “Did you live in India a long time, Sergeant Major?”

• “He was caught in the machinery.”

• “It moved! When I wished, it twisted in my hand, like a snake.”

Who or what is the antagonist in the story?

• Sergeant Major Morris

• Herbert White

• the monkey's paw

• the storm outside

What are two ways that the author creates mood in “The Monkey’s Paw”?

• dialect and characterization

• word choice and setting

• allusion and irony

• point of view and suspense

What evidence from the text foreshadows that the paw was evil?

• "If you keep it, don't blame me for what happens."

• "Why, we're going to be rich, and famous, and happy."

• "I expect you'll find the cash tied up in a big bag in the middle of your bed."

• "His mother laughed, and following him to the door, watched him down the road."

Which question best represents the conflict that the characters confront in "The Monkey's Paw"?

• Should Mr. White risk using the monkey's paw to make a wish?

• Will Mr. White be able to pay the mortgage on his home?

• Can the monkey's paw be saved from destruction in the fire?

• Is Sergeant-Major Morris going to cast a spell on the White family?

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

• Fate and consequences

• Love and sacrifice

• War and peace

• Friendship and loyalty