Question

Foreshadowing is a literary device in which a writer gives an advance hint of what is to come later in the story. How does the author of “The Monkey’s Paw” use foreshadowing in the first chapter to suggest that the spell placed on the paw might not bring happiness to whoever possesses it? Cite textual evidence from the selection to support your answer.

Answer 1

In the story called, “The Monkey’s Paw,” the author, W.W Jacobs, uses foreshadowing to add suspense. When Mrs. White asks Sergeant Major if any one else made a wish he says, “Yes. I don't know what the first two were, but the third was for death." The author also uses foreshadowing when Mrs. White jokes and says to wish for four arms Sergeant Major "with a look of alarm on his face," catches Mr. White's arm. 'If you must wish,' he said gruffly, 'wish for something sensible.'" Foreshadowing is also used when Sergeant Major is telling his feelings about the monkey’s paw. It states, “‘Pitch it on the fire again like a sensible man.’” Here he is warning Me. White of the consequences if he makes a wish. From this dialogue I readers can infer that something bad is going to happen.