Symbolism

A few elements related to the physical setting have a symbolic function in the story “The Monkey’s Paw” by W.W. Jacobs.

The fire

The fire which burns in the beginning of the story functions as a symbol of purification (catharsis) as it is where...

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The door

The door of the house with its locks functions as a barrier between the real and the horrific supernatural...

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Monkey's paw

Finally, the monkey paw, is a symbol of magic and the costs which come from using it.

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Number three

The number three also plays a symbolical function in the short story. There are three members of the White family, the monkey paw grants three wishes to three men, the company employee attempts to enter the Whites’ house three times, and Mrs White asks her husband three times to wish for Herbert to be alive again.

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