The Most Exciting Part of the Monkey's Paw, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the part you think is the most exciting!

Updated on Apr 30, 2024 06:26

In the swirling mists of folklore, one tale that consistently captivates is the story of the Monkey’s Paw, where wishes and consequences twine with the fateful grasp of supernatural forces. This narrative, rich with mystery and forewarning, offers different segments that could be perceived as fascinating by diverse readers. By having a ranked list of these intriguing parts, it becomes easier for new readers to know which segments resonated the most with others and provoked deeper thoughts or chilling thrill. Each segment of the Monkey’s Paw story holds unique elements that appeal to varied tastes. Through a dynamic voting process, you contribute to identifying which part of the tale is considered the most captivating by the majority. This evolving list not only enhances your understanding of the narrative's impactful moments but also connects you with the perceptions of other enthusiasts. It's a communal exploration of what makes this classic horror story perennially engaging.

What Is the Most Exciting Part of the Monkey's Paw?

1

81
votes
The initial introduction of the Monkey's Paw

W. W. Jacobs

The eerie atmosphere and the mysterious legend surrounding the paw set the tone for the story.
The initial introduction of the Monkey's Paw is a pivotal moment in the story. It takes place in the home of the White family, where Sergeant-Major Morris, a close friend of the family, presents them with the mysterious Monkey's Paw.

Origin: The Monkey's Paw is said to have come from an old fakir, who wanted to show that fate ruled people's lives and that those who interfered with it did so to their sorrow.

Appearance: The Monkey's Paw is a dried, shriveled talisman, resembling a mummified monkey’s paw, with distinct knuckles and an eerie feel.

Magical Power: The Monkey's Paw is said to have the ability to grant three wishes to its possessor.

Cursed: The paw is believed to be cursed, often bringing great misfortune to those who use it to make their wishes.

Inscriptions: The Monkey's Paw is engraved with numerous magical symbols representing its powers and curses.
2

36
votes
The first wish

Sergeant-Major Morris

The tension builds as the Whites make their first wish and wait to see if it will be granted.
The first wish is a pivotal moment in the story of the Monkey's Paw. It sets the stage for the subsequent events and introduces the concept of the paw's supernatural power.

Wisher: Mr. White

Wish: 200 pounds

Wish Outcome: Received 200 pounds

Effect: Mr. White's son Herbert had died in an accident, and the 200 pounds was given to the Whites as compensation

Initial Reaction: Surprise and gratitude
3

16
votes
The arrival of the visitor

W.W. Jacobs

The sudden appearance of the stranger at their door adds to the tension and foreshadows the tragedy to come.
The arrival of the visitor is a pivotal moment in the Monkey's Paw story. It introduces a mysterious character who brings along an ominous atmosphere and sets off the chain of events that lead to the main conflict.

Curiosity: Creates curiosity in the readers

Emotional Impact: Makes an emotional impact on the characters and readers

Character: The visitor

Atmosphere: Ominous

Importance: Pivotal
4

12
votes
The second wish

W. W. Jacobs

The audience knows that the second wish will have grave consequences, but the characters are oblivious to the danger.
The second wish is the turning point in the Monkey's Paw story. After the previous wish, where Mr. White wished for 200 pounds, the family begins to realize the dark consequences of their wishes. Mrs. White is consumed by grief over the death of their son Herbert, who had been mangled in a machinery accident. Overwhelmed by grief, Mr. White decides to make the second wish, hoping to bring his son back to life.

Wish outcome: Bringing back the dead

Wish limitations: Wish fulfillment through supernatural means

Time limit: No specified time limit mentioned

Wish reversal: Not possible

Unintended consequences: Macabre and eerie presence of resurrected son
5

18
votes
The final wish

W.W. Jacobs

The climax of the story, as the Whites make their final wish and the consequences come crashing down upon them.
The final wish is the climax of the Monkey's Paw story. After experiencing the dire consequences of their previous wishes, the protagonist is left with only one remaining wish. This wish holds immense power and potential, but also carries with it the fear of further tragic consequences.

Wish Limit: The protagonist has one last wish.

Uncertainty: The outcome of the wish is unknown, creating suspense.

Power: The final wish possesses incredible supernatural power.

Fear: There is a genuine sense of fear and apprehension in making the final wish.

Consequences: The protagonist is aware of the potential disastrous consequences that have occurred with previous wishes.
6

8
votes
The foreshadowing

W.W. Jacobs

The various hints and clues throughout the story that something terrible is going to happen keep the audience on edge.
The foreshadowing in 'The Monkey's Paw' is a literary technique used by W.W. Jacobs to hint at the impending danger and tragedy that will follow the use of the monkey's paw.

Technique: Foreshadowing

Genre: Horror Fiction

Setting: Small English village

Main Characters: Mr. and Mrs. White, Sergeant-Major Morris

Theme: Fate and the consequences of interfering with it
7

12
votes
The use of symbolism

W.W. Jacobs

The paw itself is a powerful symbol of the dangers of greed and the consequences of our actions.
The use of symbolism in 'The Monkey's Paw' adds depth and meaning to the story, enhancing its overall impact and creating a sense of foreboding and tragedy.

1: Symbolism highlights the theme of the story - the consequences of meddling with fate.

2: The monkey's paw itself symbolizes temptation and the desire for something more in life.

3: The images of darkness and fire symbolize danger and impending doom.

4: The three wishes symbolize the characters' desires and the consequences that follow.

5: The knocking at the door symbolizes the imminent arrival of death.
8

8
votes
The theme of fate

W.W. Jacobs

The story explores the idea that our destinies are predetermined and that we cannot escape our fate.
The theme of fate in 'The Monkey's Paw' explores the idea that certain events and outcomes are predetermined and cannot be altered, regardless of human actions or desires.

1: The story depicts a talisman, the monkey's paw, that is said to grant three wishes but also brings grave consequences.

2: The White family, the main characters, experience the power of fate when they make their wishes on the monkey's paw.

3: Despite their wishes, the Whites find themselves facing tragic and uncontrollable circumstances as a result.

4: The idea of fate is reinforced through the recurring motifs of fate, destiny, and inevitability throughout the story.

5: The character of Sergeant Major Morris, who introduces the monkey's paw to the Whites, serves as a catalyst for their encounter with fate.
9

5
votes
The ending

The shocking and tragic ending leaves a lasting impression on the reader and reinforces the story's message.
The ending is the most exciting and climactic part of a story, where all the loose ends are tied up and the final resolution is revealed. It often leaves the reader or viewer with a sense of satisfaction or anticipation for what comes next.

Tension and conflict: The ending typically reaches its peak of tension and conflict, creating a sense of thrilling suspense.

Resolution: The ending provides a resolution to the main conflict or problem faced by the characters, answering the central questions of the story.

Character arcs: The ending often showcases the growth and development of the main characters, concluding their individual storylines.

Emotional impact: The ending aims to evoke strong emotions in the audience, whether it's happiness, sadness, surprise, or a mix of various feelings.

Plot twists: The ending may include unexpected plot twists or revelations, adding excitement and intrigue to the overall narrative.
10

9
votes
The psychological tension

W.W. Jacobs

The story's use of psychological tension and suspense keeps the reader engaged and on the edge of their seat.
The psychological tension in The Monkey's Paw refers to the intense suspense and anticipation that builds up throughout the story, leaving the readers on the edge of their seats. It is a key element that captivates and engages the audience.

Genre: Horror

Theme: Fate and consequences

Setting: A small house in a remote village

Plot structure: Linear

Narrative style: Third person limited

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Discussion

Ranking factors for exciting part

The element of surprise

One key factor in considering what makes the story exciting is the element of surprise. Look for instances where unexpected outcomes occur or when a twist in the story catches the reader off-guard.
The moral lesson

The Monkey's Paw is a cautionary tale that teaches the consequences of messing with fate and the dangers of being greedy. Assess how effectively the story conveys this message and how it impacts the excitement level.
Suspense and tension

How well the story builds suspense and tension plays a significant role in making it exciting. Consider the pacing, the use of foreshadowing, the description of the characters' emotions, and the escalation of events.
The supernatural aspect

The story's central supernatural element - the magic monkey's paw - adds intrigue and fascination. Evaluate how effectively the supernatural aspect is incorporated into the story and how much it contributes to its excitement.
Character development

Analyze how well the characters are developed throughout the story and how their personalities, motives, and actions contribute to the excitement of the story.
Imagery and atmosphere

The author's use of imagery and the creation of a dark, eerie atmosphere play a significant role in crafting an immersive and exciting reading experience.
Plot development

A well-developed plot typically has a clear beginning, middle, and end. Consider how effectively the story unfolds, presenting conflicts and obstacles while leading up to a climactic moment.
Emotional impact

The excitement of a story often comes from the emotions it evokes in readers, such as fear, anxiety, or anticipation. Assess the story's ability to elicit strong emotions and engage the reader on an emotional level.
Reader engagement

A truly exciting story pulls readers in and keeps their attention throughout. Evaluate how captivating the story is and whether it consistently holds the reader's interest from beginning to end.
Resolution

The conclusion of a story can make or break its excitement factor. Consider how satisfying the ending is and if it effectively resolves the conflicts and tensions built up throughout the story.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most exciting part of the Monkey's Paw. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or part is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

1616 views
204 votes
10 ranked items

Movers & Shakers

The initial introduction of the Monkey's Paw
The first wish
The foreshadowing
The psychological tension

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each part once every 24 hours. The rank of each part is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most exciting part of the monkey's paw

The Monkey's Paw is a classic short story written by W.W. Jacobs in 1902. It tells the tale of a cursed monkey's paw that grants its owner three wishes, but at a great cost. The story is a chilling exploration of the consequences of greed and the dangers of playing with fate. What makes the Monkey's Paw so exciting is the tension it creates as the characters grapple with the consequences of their wishes. The story is a masterclass in suspense, building to a climactic ending that leaves the reader on the edge of their seat. Despite being over a century old, the Monkey's Paw remains a timeless and gripping horror story that continues to captivate readers to this day.