What does Monkey Paw do? This intriguing question refers to the mysterious and supernatural power attributed to the Monkey Paw, a fictional object from W. W. Jacobs’ short story of the same name. The Monkey Paw is a cursed hand that grants its owner three wishes, but at a steep price. This article delves into the significance of the Monkey Paw and the consequences of its wishes, exploring the moral lessons it imparts to its readers.
The Monkey Paw, a small, withered hand, is found in the attic of an old English country house. It belongs to Mr. Whitehead, an elderly man who is desperate for money to save his son’s life. He decides to sell the Monkey Paw to a local man named Mr. Greaves, who is also in dire need of money. Mr. Greaves, in turn, wishes for a fortune, and the Monkey Paw grants his wish, but at a cost that he never anticipated.
As the story unfolds, we witness the tragic consequences of the Monkey Paw’s wishes. Each wish brings a different form of misfortune, and the characters involved suffer greatly. The Monkey Paw’s power is not only limited to granting wishes but also to causing chaos and despair. It becomes a symbol of the perils of unbridled desire and the unforeseen consequences that come with it.
The first wish granted by the Monkey Paw is for a fortune. Mr. Greaves, now wealthy, discovers that the money is cursed, and he loses everything he gained. The second wish is for the return of his wife, who had passed away. However, the wife who returns is not the same woman he knew; she is a ghost, and the third wish is for her to disappear, which leads to his own death.
The Monkey Paw serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of wishful thinking and the moral implications of our desires. It teaches us that the pursuit of wealth and power can lead to unforeseen and tragic consequences. The story highlights the importance of considering the long-term effects of our actions and the value of contentment and gratitude.
Moreover, the Monkey Paw’s power is not absolute. It is bound by rules and limitations, which ultimately prevent the characters from achieving their true desires. This adds to the story’s intrigue and makes it a compelling read. The Monkey Paw’s curse serves as a reminder that sometimes, the things we wish for are not worth the price we pay.
In conclusion, the Monkey Paw is a powerful symbol in W. W. Jacobs’ short story. It serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unbridled desire and the consequences of our actions. The story’s exploration of the Monkey Paw’s power and the moral lessons it imparts make it a timeless piece of literature that continues to captivate readers today. So, what does the Monkey Paw do? It teaches us about the perils of wishful thinking and the importance of considering the long-term effects of our desires.
