Topic > Comparison and contrast between the monkey's paw a magical monkey that grants its owner three wishes. However, like all things that have a price, wishes have disastrous consequences. In this essay I will compare and contrast the themes, characters, and narrative structure of "The Monkey's Paw" to explore the story's deeper meanings and implications. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Theme: The Danger of Tampering with Destiny One of the central themes of "The Monkey's Paw" is the danger of tampering with destiny and the consequences of our desires. The characters in the story are tempted by the power of the monkey's paw to grant their wishes, but soon realize that their wishes have tragic and unintended consequences. This theme can be seen in the characters' actions and choices throughout the story. Mr White, for example, wants two hundred pounds to pay off his mortgage, but the money comes at the cost of his son's life. The story serves as a cautionary tale, warning against the dangers of greed and the desire for instant gratification. Theme: The Inevitability of FateIn contrast, another theme in the story is the inevitability of fate and the powerlessness of human beings to change their fate. Despite their wishes, the characters of "The Monkey's Paw" are unable to alter the course of events. This theme is highlighted by the recurring motif of fate throughout the story. For example, when the sergeant major first introduces the monkey's paw, he warns the Whites of its power, saying, "It had a spell cast on it by an old fakir... a very holy man... He wanted to show that fate governed people's lives and that those who interfered with it did so to their chagrin." This theme of destiny is reinforced by the tragic outcomes of wishes, which ultimately cannot be undone. Character Analysis The characters in "The Monkey's Paw" also play a crucial role in shaping the themes and narrative of the story. Mr. and Mrs. White, along with their son Herbert, are the main characters in the story. Mr. White is portrayed as a curious and adventurous man willing to take risks, while Mrs. White is more cautious and skeptical. Their contrasting personalities provide an interesting dynamic that adds depth to the story. Herbert, on the other hand, serves as a symbol of innocence and youth, which is tragically taken from him when he is killed at his father's wish. These characters represent different aspects of human nature and serve to highlight the moral dilemmas and internal conflicts that arise from their actions. Narrative Structure The narrative structure of “The Monkey’s Paw” also contributes to its overall impact. The story is divided into three distinct parts: the introduction, the development and the climax. The introduction sets the stage and introduces the main characters, while the development creates suspense and tension as the characters express their desires and face the consequences. The climax, which occurs when Mrs. White wishes for her son to come back to life, is the turning point of the story and leads to the tragic conclusion. This narrative structure helps create a sense of anticipation and keeps the reader engaged throughout the story. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a custom essay..
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